The Hungry Runner Girl: Optimism while Injured

Monday, March 21, 2011

Optimism while Injured

As you know (because I talk about it non-stop) I am currently injured. My leg is feeling slightly better after 8 days of no running but still no where near feeling like it should in order to run on it. My physical therapy appointment is tomorrow and I am hoping he will be able to magically wave his wand and fix whatever is going on.

Yes, this is a picture of me in the bathroom with my magic wand made out of markers and an extra weird face.

Have I cried about this stupid quad problem? On average, 6.4 times a day. Ask Billy if you don't believe me.

Why? Not because I think Boston is my one and only race because I KNOW that I will be racing for many years (I am still a rookie:) but I have been upset because of the ridiculous amount of time, energy and sacrifice I have put into training. I feel like mentally and physically I was right on track to meet my sub 3 hour goal for Boston and then boom.....I am sidelined.

I started getting down on myself for being so upset about this. Thinking......."Janae, YOU are an optimist. Why in the world are you letting this effect you so negatively?" Happy people never get sad right?! They don't cry right?!?! Everything should be daisies and butterflies! Optimists have a huge creepy happy smile on their face at all times right!?!?!

And then I remembered the definition that I use to teach my health students what optimism is........

"My definition of optimism is simply the belief that setbacks are normal and can be overcome by your own actions." -Martin Seligman.

I don't think that you have to be happy and cheery all of the time to be an OPTIMIST.

Bad things happen. There is nothing we can do to prevent those things from happening. We have to realize that is part of the human experience to have trials, setbacks and crappy things happen.

The difference between an optimist and a pessimist is what they CHOOSE to do when a setback comes along.

It is okay to be sad, to feel emotion and to cry, it would be weird if you didn't when something bad happens but...........

We have the power to take our circumstance and choose where to go from there.

So, even though I may have broken my tear ducts from overuse and I have emotionally eaten $24 worth of candy in the last 8 days.......that doesn't make me a pessimist.

What makes me an optimist is that I am taking this SETBACK and I am going to learn and grow and become a BETTER runner and hopefully person because of it.

-I have learned that it is NECESSARY to listen to our bodies and when it tells us we need a break.

-I am loving and savoring the extra time I have with Billster. It is awesome to be be able to sleep in with him in the morning until 7 instead of the usual 5 a.m. wake-up call.

-All this weight training is making me BUFF:)

-A little extra cushioning is probably good for me.......plus maybe that means billy will take me shopping for new pants:)

-I am going to stay fit and keep my endurance by swimming!!

-I am learning to have more sympathy for others (especially my PE kids that complain about every little thing when they are working out).

-This setback has taught me a lot about myself that I wouldn't have learned otherwise.

-As soon as I am back running I will be more thankful, determined and motivated than ever.

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Check out my guest post at the BEAUTIFUL DANA'S BLOG!!!

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What was the last setback you had and how did you deal with it?

What do you think Optimism is?

Are you a crier or do you express your emotions in other ways?

-I am a binge crier, but I feel SO much better after a lil' cry and I am ready to conquer the world after:)

98 Comments:

At March 21, 2011 at 4:12 PM , Katie @ Healthy Heddleston said...: I'm such a crier -- every emotion gets the same results: tears!! Happy, sad, angry, etc all equals tears!!
At March 21, 2011 at 4:12 PM , Unknown said...: my theory is the optimism heals you faster. Are you allowed to cry? OF COURSE! you can cry on my shoulder anytime! Its healthy. Get it all out, just stay positive. I believe in optimism and I believe in YOU!! Love you friend. Beautiful post.
LC
At March 21, 2011 at 4:12 PM , Lindsey@arunningtale said...: I am also currently dealing with a running injury (knee), being stubborn I tried to run which proved to be a very bad idea, so this week I am taking off from running, and doing everything possible to get myself back in proper running order. Thank you for the quote, it was just what I needed to hear today :)
At March 21, 2011 at 4:13 PM , Unknown said...: p.s.
please email me and let me know how swimming goes. The hubs has a few workouts if you want me to email them to you too!
XXOO
At March 21, 2011 at 4:14 PM , lisa said...: Keep on keepin' on, lady! When life gets tough, I think of this...
"A certain amount of opposition is a great help to a (wo)man. Kites rise against, not with, the wind."- John Neal
At March 21, 2011 at 4:19 PM , Anonymous said...: I'm not usually a crier...only when I get really stressed out. Its amazing how much better you feel after a good cry, isn't it?
I completely agree with you on optimism! I KNOW you'll be fine and back and better than ever in no time! :D
At March 21, 2011 at 4:19 PM , Emma (Sweet Tooth Runner) said...: This is an AMAZING post!! I LOVE your definition of optimism:)

I think your attitude to this is so INSPIRATIONAL. I am currently experiencing some mild shin splints, and am battling with my desire to just continue training hard through it anyway, but YOU are inspiring me to be the best person I can be, and to be good to my body.

And I still belive 1000% that you can still get that sub 3 hour Boston, because you are a ROCKSTAR!!
At March 21, 2011 at 4:25 PM , Breann Clawson said...: i'm also dealing with a knee injury right now. and my first half marathon is in 25 days i salt lake! i feel like everytime i try to do something ... something gets in the way! and so i'm pushing through the pain and plan on dealing with it when the race is over. and i'm planning on taking the entire summer to train in my new vibrum five fingers! and they will hopefully cure me!
At March 21, 2011 at 4:26 PM , Pam @ herbieontherun.com said...: Awww, sweetie, I'm so sorry this is all happening now. I knew you had to be more upset about it than you were letting on here. You're right--Boston is absolutely not your be-all-end-all, but you have every right to be upset and a little angry at the world.

I'll be praying for a quick and full recovery for you!
At March 21, 2011 at 4:27 PM , ShutUpandRun said...: You know i get this so so well. Hang in there. You will be back. It stinks, but knowing you, you will find the blessings underneath. You already have.

Saw Swedish Fish at Safeway today. thought of you. Injured? More time for the fish
At March 21, 2011 at 4:38 PM , Anonymous said...: GIRL I LOVE YOU!!!! ive had a Major setback a few years ago in my life but it brought me where i am today and im SO SO SO GRateful.. everything happens for a REASON!
At March 21, 2011 at 4:39 PM , dear willow, said...: Sooo wish u libed close and my hubby could fix ur leg. He works with soo many runners!!!

I realize that because of my brain ci dition i cant run :( :(
I was soooo disappointed and down on myself because i wanted it sooooo bad BUT God doesnt care if im a runner...He just cares that im His :)

Love u!
At March 21, 2011 at 4:41 PM , d.a.r. said...: I love love love your definition of optimism! Setbacks are so normal--they make you hungrier for your dreams and more appreciative of your good days! Hang in there sweets!
At March 21, 2011 at 4:41 PM , Jess said...: Janae, I dealt with this as I got injured while training for a 1/2 marathon this Spring. I simply had to realize that my bodies health was more important than any race I could run. I can ALWAYS do one once my body recovers.

I know what you mean about always feeling like you have to be happy and joyful, even when the situation is NOT cool. But realizing that it's okay to cry is important. I've done my fair share over the years.
At March 21, 2011 at 4:41 PM , Unknown said...: Made a frozen yogurt run today from work and thought of you! It was yummy cold goodness...to enjoy in a rare moment of Arizona rain. If you are ever in Phoenix I will do a tour of frozen yogurt places with you! Hope your leggy is feeling better soon!
At March 21, 2011 at 4:52 PM , Julia said...: great post janae! I relate to this SO much...the past two weeks have been the hardest ever. And I know I will appreciate every single step that I get to run post-injury instead of taking it for granted. I really like your definition of optimism. It makes it not feel so overwhelming. I feel exhausted sometimes (lately) from trying to be positive or optimistic all the time. And if I am not positive I worry that I am sending negative energy through my body that will keep me from healing quickly....ahhhh. it is a vicious cycle! but we can get there! I like knowing that it is okay to cry, to be upset, to eat 1000 cookies...haha. But to know that I WILL get there again and it WILL be okay definitely makes me feel better.

Let me know if you ever need a lifting buddy :)Hoping for GREAT news tomorrow from the PT for you!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:05 PM , Amanda@runninghood said...: OH Janae. You are optimism to me. And yes crying comes with that because crying is a release and without that release then optimism isn't always possible. Crying helps to get rid of all that pessimistic crap and be refreshed. I cry. plenty but especially when something this big is happening in my life...you've worked so hard and that hard work won't go to waste...it will still be there...working for you! You'll only be strong and more determined from this...at least that is my bet about you. Thinking lots of warm and loving thoughts for you Janae!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:06 PM , Holli Marie said...: Yay for PT (from a PT student)! There won't be a magic wand but work with him to let him know your goals and concerns and hopefully you two can come up with an awesome plan!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:10 PM , middleagedrunner said...: You are the most optimistic person I know!
And you know what I KNOW! That you will be healed and FINE in time for Boston and will ROCK it.
We're all pulling for you here on the interwebs because you are the COOLEST ever (obvi!)
I'm sending you good thoughts for your
PT appt tomorrow. I know though, as healthy as you are and as positive as you are that nothing much is going to get in your way!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:11 PM , Janice {Run Far} said...: 2 weeks ago... hip issues... wasn't real sure what it was, but some rest, ice, strecthing and rolling made it much better. Using my magic wand and wishing you a healthy leg (s).
At March 21, 2011 at 5:11 PM , runkatie said...: I hope your physical therapy goes well tomorrow. You are at the beginning of the journey. You still have so many accomplishments and opportunities ahead of you!

Glad you are staying optimistic. Sometimes it's all you can do!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:13 PM , Holli said...: A setback is a setup for a comeback!! You got this, girlie!!!!!! :-))
At March 21, 2011 at 5:24 PM , Sarah said...: I hope you are able to recover soon! Injuries are the worst!! It is so important though to listen to your body, so props to you for being able to see that and take it easy when your body is hurting. It will be worth it in the long run to take 2 weeks off instead of being out for 2 months later on! Being injured is never fun and it is definitely ok/normal to be sad and mad and frustrated, but you can still be optimistic and not let it carry over negatively to other parts of your life. You have a great perspective and I am glad you are staying optimistic!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:29 PM , Shannon said...: This post almost made me cry! Haha. So, yeah, I'm definitely a crier. I cry when I'm sad, stressed, mad... and when those darn Coming Home commercials come on Lifetime!

I really don't think I'm an optimist. I'm attempting to change that, but my first thought whenever anything goes wrong is "You're such a loser" or "This sucks, it's never going to get better". I have a paper due in just over a month and only have 2.5 pages written, and all I can think is how pathetic and lousy I am, and how this paper is never going to get done. I was aiming toward my first marathon on April 30, but I don't think I'll be able to do it because of injury, so that makes me think I'm not a runner. Heck, at work when we have big groups two girls will share the big groups, and the rest will take the smaller groups and it's always the same two girls who wait on the big groups and it's never me, and that makes me think my manager must not think I'm a strong waitress, that those two are stronger. I have issues.

Anyway, I think you hit the nail on the head with what optimism is. It's choosing to work on improvement in bad situations. While you may say "This sucks" you can then go on to say "BUT I can USE this! I can be BETTER from this!"

Hope the PT goes well! I tried to schedule an appointment today and you need a doctor's referral...
At March 21, 2011 at 5:33 PM , ShortSkirts said...: Good luck with physical therapy! I know what you mean though, I got really sick the night before the St Pats Day Dash and got really upset that I couldn't run. Running in the rain with a fever was a no go, but taking time to rest is the right thing to do. It's all about the long term. Sure it sucks to miss a race or not be able to perform your best at one because of injury but you gotta make sure your in the game for the long-term.
At March 21, 2011 at 5:39 PM , Michelle (The Runner's Plate) said...: I battled some breathing-issues (turned out I was anemic/iron-deficient) for 2.5 years, where I struggled on every run! The biggest thing I learned from that experience was not to take running (when I'm healthy and feeling good) for granted!

I now count my blessings (as often as I can remember) every run I go on!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:39 PM , Randee and Angie said...: Great post. I shared part of it with my eternal pessimist 10 year old son!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:43 PM , Trisha said...: I am SO SO sorry that you are dealing with this, especially right now! Injuries are so depressing & reading your post made me tear up (umm..obviously I'm a crier, haha)! It brought back memories of fracturing my pelvis 2.5 years ago. I'm just now getting back into running - I was so overwhelmed with the fact that I couldn't run anymore & I didn't know how to handle it. I'm very impressed that you are keeping up the fitness and hitting the weights!! You're going to be so buff!!

During my recovery, I started listening to my body, which was something I had never done before. I decided the injury was the best worst thing that could have happened.

All the best during your PT appt tomorrow! My fingers are crossed for a quick recovery for you!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:44 PM , Coy Martinez said...: I'm injured too and I feel like I blog about it way too much. I hate it when others are hurt but when I read your blog I know that I'm not alone. I've had to drop out of my next half in less than two weeks. For the first time in my life I'm showing up to cheer! It's tough BUT my body needs time. I really just wanna put on my shoes and run as fast as I can down my road. Do you feel that way too??
At March 21, 2011 at 5:45 PM , athletic chick said...: Set back - my present hip injury that has now sidelined me for the past month. Crying? oh yeah... I think the hardest part about staying positive while dealing with an injury is not knowing WHEN you can go back to running (or for me - cycling).

You're doing awesome - just take it one day at a time, and trust God's promise to bring good in all circumstances. That's the advice I keep telling myself. :) I'm praying for you!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:47 PM , Jody @ Raising Fin and Fish said...: I had a foot injury which ended up needing to be screwed back together with two screws plus a second incision on my calf to lengthen my gastroc tendon. It was in November of 2009. I remember during my recovery thinking that I would never be able to run again but in the last few months as I have gotten back into running (after a pregnancy in between the two) I realize that this has made me more determined than ever.

I like to use set backs as fuel for the fire. It gets me more motivated than ever before to acheive and smash through my goals.
At March 21, 2011 at 5:49 PM , Diet Coke and a Lemon said...: I'm definitely a crier. My mom always tells me she doesn't know what to do with me because I cry all the time. That's just how I express ANY emotion...whether something good or bad happened in my life. I feel so great after crying....it's like a new perspective in life had been opened up to me. I loved the definition of optimism that you use. We aren't always suppose to be cheery and smiley....that's just exhausting. But that doesn't make us negative nancy's!
Keep up the healing process!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:50 PM , Anonymous said...: i'm really not a crier. it kind of makes me feel like a hypocrite because i tell people all the time that it's okay to cry but i tend to let those emotions build up and then explode at once.

giiiiiiiiiiiirl i feel you on the injury front. i'm currently sitting up in my bed telling myself all the positive stuff going on in my life to distract me from my bum leg. we'll get through this :)
At March 21, 2011 at 5:51 PM , Katelyn @ Chef Katelyn said...: Love you girl!! I have had a bad knee lately so I have been off the running BUT I am cross training like it's my job. Cha ching!:)

Optimism is dealing with the hard things, letting it out, but being able to find the other doors that have been opened and finding something bigger and better for yourself:)
At March 21, 2011 at 5:52 PM , Samantha said...: Oh girl, you have every reason to be upset!!! I would be too!! I feel so bummed for you and I hope you are back to running very soon!
At March 21, 2011 at 5:53 PM , Anonymous said...: I'm sorry you're sidelined (for now), and I think the tears are okay - you have to get the frustration out somehow! And I still think you'll sub-3 Boston. Actually, I have no doubt.
At March 21, 2011 at 5:53 PM , Edwina said...: I know exactly how you feel in this post! I was recently training for my first half marathon and fell over and broke my foot... Now I just want to be able to walk without crutches before I even think about running! Add that to the fact it seems to be slow in healing and I have gotten really down in the past few weeks. It is really hard to go from all that exercise (and endorphins!) to nothing. At least I can swim now (with just my arms and a Floatie for my legs so they don't move!) and it makes me feel better than doing nothing!
Good luck with your swimming, I am slowly beginning to like it and get better at it mow! Love your blog
At March 21, 2011 at 6:02 PM , Caroline said...: 2 surgeries within 5 mos
I went through self pity party, anger, frustration, yuo name it. I am a crier.
then I realized it could be worst. a lot of people are worst then me, have a harder life. But it takes going through a "bad" phase to see the light, I think. we are all humans.
At March 21, 2011 at 6:04 PM , my little celebration said...: Great post Janae. I think if you believe hard enough, your magical marker wand will heal you quite soon. But in all seriousness, I DO hope you get to feeling better super soon.

Thanks again for writing such a fun guest post! It definitely inspired me to run run and then run some more!

hugs beautiful friend,
Dana
At March 21, 2011 at 6:06 PM , Anonymous said...: stay positive, I know that's probably sooo hard with Boston coming up. But you're doing a great job of finding the positives!
When I was out in January with tendonitis... I reminded myself of this quote.
"A setback is a setup for a comeback!" Hang in there Janae! <3
At March 21, 2011 at 6:09 PM , Laura @ Meet Virginia said...: JANAE! You are the bomb.com and you are STILL going to rock Boston!! At Jordan's big family dinner the other night we were all talking about you and how ridiculously amazing you are! I am a huge crier - I have already cried today. Don't worry!!! :) LOVE YOU!
At March 21, 2011 at 6:09 PM , Anonymous said...: I've had set back after set back.. infact they just keep coming. How do I get over it? I cry TONS and TONS then just get up and do it again. Somehow God gives me the strength when I feel like I'm just done.
At March 21, 2011 at 6:13 PM , Anonymous said...: Great post Janae! It's easy to be happy and positive when things are easy. True strength is defined (and gained) when things are tough. Optimism doesn't mean being happy when things are bad, but knowing that you CAN get through those things and you WILL be stronger for having gone through them!
At March 21, 2011 at 6:14 PM , Running Ricig said...: Oh man! I'm loving your magic marker wand. I hope it works! You're awesome!

I'm totally a cryer, when I'm sick I cry all the time!
At March 21, 2011 at 6:14 PM , Chels said...: About 5 years ago I had a major setback. I came down with Chronic Fatigue syndrome (caused from mono which was caused from overtraining and stress). I went from running 70-80 miles per week to not even being able to walk through the mall without my throat swelling up and my legs becoming stiff. I felt as if someone had stripped away my best friend. After about a year, I began to do some research, saw many doctors and started my own program. I hated it, but yes I would go on the bike and ride for three minutes. Soon I was doing 5, 10 and so on with no flare ups. It has been 5 years, and it has not been an easy five years. Finally today I can say I am about 90% back to where I was years ago. Most of all though I learned not to scarifice anything, and everytime I step out to run I remember the day looking out my window watching someone run and crying to myself thinking that will never be me again.
Janae, you will get out there again, and when you do you will be better and stronger. You have so much courage and strength, it will get you far, you ROCK!
At March 21, 2011 at 6:16 PM , misszippy said...: Way to walk the walk! Injuries absolutely suck, I know. I hated every minute of mine, but I will say...so many good things came out of mine. I am truly a different person/runner now than before. You will find the good in yours, and it sounds like you already are. That said, let's hope your PT has the magic you need for Boston!
At March 21, 2011 at 6:21 PM , Elysie said...: This post made me think about how I'm trying to reach some goals right now. Even though the pessimistic side of me comes out now and again and says, why even bother, this will never happen? The optimist side of me says, even if things don't work out I will be a better person for at least attempting them. Think about all you learned as you were able to train. You'll be a stronger runner for having done all that training when you get back to running.
Plus, when you reach your goal, it will mean that much more since you've had to overcome obstacles along the way!
At March 21, 2011 at 6:39 PM , Holley @ Lunges and Lashes said...: I did it, I started a blog this weekend! I have been thinking about it lots and when I was talking to you about it I was like, shoot, I should just do it! I have a lot more to do, but I am glad I started!
At March 21, 2011 at 6:42 PM , Holley @ Lunges and Lashes said...: so... maybe it would be helpful if I told you the address... oops! www.lungesandlashes.blogspot.com :)
At March 21, 2011 at 6:44 PM , Chelsea said...: Amen sister. I feel you on this post! Praying you get great news today!
At March 21, 2011 at 6:46 PM , Rachel said...: I am definitely a crier. I am still in a funk after Disney. And now, my runs are off. I'm not feeling as great afterwards. My endorphins don't pump as much. BUT, I am still doing it. You are right. This is going to make you a better and stronger runner.
At March 21, 2011 at 6:49 PM , Jess @ Blonde Ponytail said...: "What makes me an optimist is that I am taking this SETBACK and I am going to learn and grow and become a BETTER runner and hopefully person because of it." Hopefully? Definitely. You already exude selflessness, optimism, strength and courage even in a low (running) time.

I think many athletes out there can relate to this post. My last setback was after I had just picked up running for races--my foot was in pain, so I stopped, felt sorry for myself, but deep down, knew it was the righ thing to do.

YOu are truly an inspiration, Janae. Thinking of you!
At March 21, 2011 at 7:02 PM , Unknown said...: I have a reoccuring back issue that stops me in my tracks. I haven't had an issue in a couple of years thankfully. It's hard not to get upset about it but sometimes these things make you stronger. ;)
At March 21, 2011 at 7:07 PM , Anonymous said...: I'm a crier too. I'm also guilty of getting down on myself as well, which I know is normal. I have just learned to put my head down and plow through whatever is thrown at me.
At March 21, 2011 at 7:10 PM , Lisa said...: I've had quite a few foot injuries the last year but then I was on the mend. knew I needed to do things right. Now my feet have been feeling great but my quad/hamstring are hurting now! It's quite frustrating, but I have to think about making it right. And being smart about it.

This is a fantastic post. thanks!
At March 21, 2011 at 7:12 PM , Maia said...: Girl, you are on the right track. There's a bigger plan out there than you have for yourself. You are amazing and will come out of this stronger (all your optimistic comments already show that!)
I broke my toe on Valentine's day and there was no running for 3 weeks. Lame, but when I went back in, the toe was completely healed and I was ready to run.
And I cry at least 3 times a day. I'm one of those that cry at everything- usually more for happy things or life that isn't directly related to me ;)
At March 21, 2011 at 7:15 PM , Bess@Bess Be Fit said...: I hate you are going through this injury!! I know how you feel...my senior year in college I missed 3 of our biggest ACC games with a concussion bc I got nailed in practice...I was only out for 4 weeks but that's pretty long for a concussion. I kept failing the test for visual memory (only scoring about 34% when I was at 96% un-concussed) and it was so frustrating because physically I felt fine but the trainers and coaches won't let you play with a brain injury! However, I finally came back and scored the biggest goal of my life and helped my team get to the furthest in the NCAA tourney in school history. My point of this is...even though you are sidelined at the moment, you WILL come back from it and do AMAZING things!!!
OH, and I binge cry as well. I think we should have a binge cry/binge eat froyo party next time you are feeling down. :)
At March 21, 2011 at 7:15 PM , Anonymous said...: I hope the PT's magic wand works! Way to keep your head high during this hard time, and it's still completely okay to feel sad and cry about it. You have amazing support from Billy & all of us! Optimism is all about perspective - you can choose to turn a situation into positivity or not. I don't cry often, but it feels good to cry occasionally and get everything out.
At March 21, 2011 at 7:15 PM , Jill said...: I've been a runner all my life, and never really injured. Recently I did fight a shin that was sore for a few days, ended up being nothing major....however 2 weeks ago I broke my foot (a bone by my ankle actually) while on a 15 mile run. I didn't trip, didn't fall, nothing....it just got tight and then 7 miles later, boom....I couldn't walk home! I was running 40 miles a week (only running 3x week) and now I'm in a cast/boot! ugh!! Totally understand your frustration, I'm there too!! And darn it if I'm not gaining weight!! I've seen where several others have commented that they are injured as well....lets all pull together and get through this together!! I remind myself that this is temporary....I will heal, I will recover, this will be in the past eventually...but I have to take it slowly and do this the right way (or it won't properly heal)!! hang in there...your going to get through this and you will be stronger from it all!!
At March 21, 2011 at 7:18 PM , Missy said...: Crying feels good...it makes it easier to return to your smiling self (until the next crying jag) you are coping very well and I bet this is teaching you a whole lot about yourself and life and all that hippy stuff.
At March 21, 2011 at 7:24 PM , Natalia - a side of simple said...: You're honestly being an inspiration. It's so refreshing to see that others get upset too when they're injured and that I'm not the only one. People don't understand that it's not because I'm obsessive, it's because it's an important part of my life! You're handling it just the way you should and looking at the situation with beautiful optimism. Love you, girl, and keeping you in my prayers for a speedy (no pun intended...) recovery!!
At March 21, 2011 at 7:29 PM , Rene said...: No major injury setbacks but I've been nursing a sore back for the past week and am seeing my chiro tomorrow. I've had to cut out my weight training and pilates and stick with running.
I love your definition of optimism so I'm stealing it.
Crying? Heck yes. All of the time. During commercials and movies, at church, pretty much wherever. I find that if I have a good cry whatever is bothering me is not such a big deal anymore.
At March 21, 2011 at 7:33 PM , Jenny said...: I'm fighting an injury too. I sent you an email about it last week (re: your self worth post). Update is that I have an MRI tomorrow for the left knee. The doc is concerned about a possible meniscus tear. Wah. So, my 50 miler next month is officially a bust. : (
It makes me sad and yes, I've definitely been shedding tears.
I'm trying to stay positive, but it's difficult.
I am also swimming! Hoping that will keep me in shape. : )
Good luck with PT tomorrow. Sending good thoughts that you continue to heal quickly.
And thanks for being an inspiration.
At March 21, 2011 at 7:35 PM , Anonymous said...: I'm sorry you're still dealing with this! I am a total crier - I cry about everything! You are still going to rock Boston because YOU ARE AMAZING BEAUTIFUL GIRL!
At March 21, 2011 at 7:35 PM , Adrienne said...: Been out of the loop and just catching up on blogs. So sorry about your injury! Dangit! I love your definition of optimism. It's so true. In fact people that walk around with a big happy face when things are sucky aren't optimistic mostly just fake and annoying. Heal soon friend.
At March 21, 2011 at 7:46 PM , Run with Jess said...: OMG, I totally cried and overate when i suffered a stress fracture last fall... and I wasn't even training for a race, much less Boston!!
At March 21, 2011 at 7:50 PM , Dorry said...: Janae! I love you because you are still focusing on the positive during a tough time. Keep up the optimism - good things will happen and I'm praying for you to be 100% healed asap! Oh, and yes, I'm a crier. It's a good release!
At March 21, 2011 at 7:50 PM , Jenn said...: Good post. You are without a doubt an optimist and a much better woman than me!!! Fantastic attitude. I try to force myself to remember that although I will NEVER understand all things, ALL things happen for a reason. This would be incredibly annoying to me if I was injured and a non-injured runner was telling me this.....I'm somewhat injured so I can say this if I want-ha!

I'm a very happy go lucky person on the outside. I am generally "optimistic" I think, I rarely appear upset. That being said, I cry RIVERS in private....

This might not sound very "optimistic" or encouraging but it's real.... I am just really frustrated and disappointed for you. Injuries are incredibly draining. You've worked so hard and it seems unfair. I'm praying you are back on your feet soon.
At March 21, 2011 at 7:51 PM , Mallory said...: Good girl staying positive! That's what you gotta do! You are an AMAZING girl, AMAZING runner and AMAZING friend, so just keep smiling and resting and you'll be back to yourself in no time!

I am SO a crier and it drives my spouse crazy sometimes. I'm not gonna change though!! :)
At March 21, 2011 at 7:59 PM , Samantha said...: Girl if I was there I would buy you so much frozen yogurt. It prob has healing power actually. I know when you're back to running you'll still be awesome...until then think about how awesome of a swimmer you're becoming! :)
At March 21, 2011 at 8:00 PM , Anonymous said...: It is A-okay to eat your feelings mixed into a big bag of Skittles!! I bet it won't be long before you're running now... 8 off is probably an eternity for your legs :-)
At March 21, 2011 at 8:00 PM , Alyssa said...: Your attitude is amazing! I feel for you so much, being injured after so much hard work during training is so frustrating, but you are absolutely right, you will be a runner for a long time, and I love how you are using to exercise those muscles that runners (aka ME) often forget about (who needs biceps? so what if my ipod holder falls off my arm on the tightest setting?). I am HUGE crier when I am happy, sad, mad, excited....basically anything. People still talk about how hard I cried at my wedding. This year my class was purposely loaded with all the children with behavior problems, and I was struggling every day. After all that there was a mistake with payroll and we didn't get paid when we were supposed to (after all our bills had been automatically deducted) and I lost it and cried hysterically at a huge meeting with my principal and everyone. I finally got some tough love and realized I can let it get me down or I can be thankful I have a job and focus on all the many positive things in my life and my year has been much better ever since!
At March 21, 2011 at 8:01 PM , Anonymous said...: amazing quote and feelings on optimism! empowering :D you can get through it!

-courtney
At March 21, 2011 at 8:08 PM , Nicole said...: im a cry baby... i cry if i get too stressed, my feelings get hurt or people are mean to me. im pretty much a baby and if someone looks at me funny, i get offeneded... :(

that said, you are amazing. you WILL run boston & you WILL do great. believe it janae!!! :)

p.s. i hope to meet you someday goregous!
At March 21, 2011 at 8:11 PM , Running Girl said...: First off, you look stunning (and so very happy) in your wedding pic. Love it.

I am always optimistic & happy, but like you, I need to have a few cry fests to get back into the good mindset after a setback.

You are seriously amazing & your attitude (and pictures!) always make me smile.
At March 21, 2011 at 8:31 PM , Emily said...: ggrrr, my latest set back was approximately 15 minutes ago. I have my back to it right now in fact to regroup before returning to it. I'm baking a ridiculous amount of goodies for 75 women tomorrow night and the HUGE batch of scones on the counter aren't ANYTHING like they're supposed to be and it made me so discouraged, feeling better now...food in the belly helps the mood.

This post was a good pick me up too, thanks! Now I'll wait for another 30 minutes just to make sure I won't have a mental set back...that would be bad =/
At March 21, 2011 at 8:35 PM , ash & diz said...: Janae, you are such a tough chick. I know you are having a hard time with this injury, but you are going to ROCK boston! I wish I could come out and cheer you on! i would love to be at the finish line SCREAMING your name! :) You are such a positive person! So inspirational! Ah! I just LOVE your guts!!!!

you can cry on my shoulder ANY time. Call me and I will be there in a flash! and I know a good cry always makes me feel better! love ya girl! you are my HERO!
At March 21, 2011 at 8:45 PM , Audie Annie said...: good choice with swimming :) I pretty much swam for the first 20 years of my life and it is my fav stress reliever. I even swam in college (until I got mono and found out I had a thyroid problem)...but thats where I'm working on my optimism, now. Thanks for your post today! Very inspiring and I totally know you are going to make it through this with flying colors (thats just the kind of girl you are)!!!
At March 21, 2011 at 8:50 PM , Trying To Heal said...: i'm a crier when it gets really bad or i'm super frustrated, but when things get bad (like when i got stuck on hwy 10 in the panhandle of fl while it was pouring rain and flooding all around me because my alternator died) i just said, "well, shit happens. might as well take it in stride and do what I can!" i just relaxed and reminded myself i would get home eventually and everything would be fine!
At March 21, 2011 at 10:16 PM , Melissa said...: I love your definition of optimism. I think it's wonderful that you took a minute to take a step back, and really practice what you teach your students!

I hope you feel better soon and get can get back out on the road!!!

And I'm a total crier! You just need to let it all out once in a while!!
At March 21, 2011 at 10:32 PM , Raina said...: I totally understand where you are coming from.

Hugs to you tonight!!! Rest up. You never know what kind of healing can happen. I listened to a podcast on marathontalk.com about a man who won London last year (?) on his debut. You know what? He took off two weeks, 4 weeks out from his race. No joke. Achilles tendon issues.

I think the hardest part is not knowing whether to bag it, and move on, or rest it and try anyway.

Still hoping to meet you in Boston. Maybe we can work a waterstation together?
At March 22, 2011 at 12:53 AM , XLMIC said...: My last setback was a hip injury that rendered me unable to run for 8 years. Really.

My husband is an optimist.
At March 22, 2011 at 2:29 AM , Susan said...: I definitely need to work on being more optimistic!

I battled my IT band injury for about a year last year, including while training for Boston! It required a lot of time off, but eventually it healed and I have a greater appreciation for running without an injury! Nothing like missing your favorite activity to make you want it more.
At March 22, 2011 at 4:54 AM , Keri said...: I am sorry about your injury :( Stay positive and hopefully this will be for the better! Last year, I became injured two weeks before my marathon. Then the week before, I caught a terrible cold or the flu or something. It ended up being for the best because I basically spent the entire two weeks leading up to the race resting and nailed my goal time.
You will rock Boston!!
At March 22, 2011 at 5:04 AM , Abbie said...: I'm glad you're swimming! I took it up when I had to take a break from running because of an injury. And while I was bored to tears (chlorine-scented tears) at first, I came to really enjoy it. I'm back to running now, but I've worked swimming into my regular training plan. Maybe you'll start to love it, too!
At March 22, 2011 at 5:45 AM , Katie T said...: I love how you are so positive in the face of an injury. It's so easy to start to feel sorry for yourself (which I have done many times!) but I love the attitude you're taking about this. I really think that positive thinking helps you heal faster, so I'm sure you'll be back to running in no time!
At March 22, 2011 at 6:46 AM , Anonymous said...: I completely agree with you! I had some knee problems at the end of the year last year and running my first half marathon, I was in extreme pain, but I didn't cross-train, I only ran in my training. So I have learned that I need to cross-train because my legs weren't strong enough to run that far and that's why I had the knee pain (also my posture/form was not great either) and so I have been concentrating on strength training and it has helped tremendoulsy. I am only running twice a week but right now that's good enough for me because I am healthy and getting stronger! Good luck you will do great! Keep up the good work!
At March 22, 2011 at 7:08 AM , Anonymous said...: I'm currently on week six of a groin pull (ZERO running), and had to drop out of my first marathon. I NEEDED this post. Thank you. I am printing it out.

PS. I've cried about it more times than I want to admit.
At March 22, 2011 at 8:46 AM , Anonymous said...: I'm being much more positive about my second IT band issue than the first time. Still, with these kind of injuries, you just end up yelling at body parts, "Why can't you be normal?"
At March 22, 2011 at 10:27 AM , Katy said...: GIrl, I cry about everything. Haha. I'm a 'weeper', and I've learned to just accept it. :)
At March 22, 2011 at 10:41 AM , Jen said...: I love everything you said. It's so hard for me to be optimistic when I'm injured. I am definitely a cryer. I need to save this post for when I have to deal with that again. I bet your muscles are getting quite ripped with all the weight work outs that you are doing. Plus swimming? Way to go girl!
At March 22, 2011 at 11:52 AM , jenny winstead said...: i just love how you see the world. you are the type of person that will achieve MAJOR success in life because you see the glass half full! i was telling my husband about your quad (he's got plantar fascitis) and is pretty bummed because he had just gotten up to 6 miles. people get hurt and they come back stronger, just like i KNOW you will! :)

thanks for stopping over by my blog yesterday. it's pretty lonely these days because i've been so busy WORKING and designing...getting my tax money ready to send off! BLAH!

anyway, have a great day girlie.
At March 22, 2011 at 1:52 PM , Cheryl said...: that totally sucks..I injured my knee on an 18miler and dropped out of my first marathon, I cried daily but just like you I ran in the water, I strength trained and 3 months later I was back, and better then ever!!! Setbacks truly make us grow.
At March 22, 2011 at 7:42 PM , Tara @ Dashing in Pearls said...: I heart you and think you're awesome and soooo freaking encouraging. I've been really down lately because I'm hurt and frustrated but your optimism is amazing.

I cry a lot. a lot. a lot. If I'm happy, if I'm sad, if I'm nervous, if I'm excited, whatever. The boyfriend is totally used to it but says he can tell when it's a cry that he should be concerned about vs. a cry that it just me being me.
At March 22, 2011 at 8:33 PM , Adrianna said...: awesomesauce post chic! optimism is over coming the negative thoughts/emotions, but allowing yourself to wallow a bit. its all about your overall thinking; we're only human! and holy moly, i LOVE to cry. weird? sure, but it always makes me feel a million times better, even if its over something ridic.
youre optimism is something you express on here in a perfect manner...normally! incredibly blog. keep it up :)
At March 26, 2011 at 7:53 AM , Liv said...: Aw injuries are always great learning experiences! It makes us stronger and more appreciative of what we have :)

And I'm the biggest crybaby ever. I do a serious crying session about twice a month, where I'll cry over everything. It's pretty bad, and it confuses my boyfriend to no end lol.
At March 26, 2011 at 5:00 PM , Laura said...: I am so sorry to hear about your injury, but admire your positive attitude toward recovery. You can do it!
At April 10, 2011 at 8:11 PM , Anonymous said...: Great definition of an optimist! You are definitely one. I'm hoping that I will learn in the many unread posts that you are already back to 100%1

Optimism while Injured

Optimism while Injured

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Monday, March 21, 2011

Optimism while Injured

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