Motivation.

So, someone asked me why move?

Why do I run, bike, train for 1/2 marathons and full marathons? Whatis my motivation? I move to manage my diabetes. This is a _great_motivator. In 2000 I was diagnosed and learned (and re-learned and re-learned and re-learned) that exercise was going to help me manage mydiabetes. AND I wanted to live healthier.

Did I mention I keep re-learning? I usually refer to this as re-defining.

But what motivates me to run, exercise and re-define? Feeling good: Mentally, Body-wise and Spiritually.
 Having a co-worker say 'hello skinny'
 Having my doctor say 'we don't take meds away from patients' Reducing my meds.
 Eliminating and keeping off meds (doctor sanctioned!!) Sticking it to the pharmaceuticals. I relish ordering the meds Ineed, because I KNOW what I'm NOT ordering.
 Did I mention feeling good?
 Asking my body to move, to move further and more intense.
 Did I mention being a role model for younger folks, folks my age,and showing that one CAN impact health

Motivation....and Excuses.

They are aaalllll mine…some days I decide to move, some days not to move. My decision, I can't even blame others. I could get out there and do it. There is just something/some reason I decide to not. I rationalize that it is another rest day and I re-commit to getting outthere the next day.

I've had guides/coaches/support the last 8 years. A partner who is in this with me. Coaches who guided me in my efforts and imbued in me the idea thatexercise is a critical component to my health. Running buddies who ran with me, gave me advice. Doctors who guide my medical. Pamphlets.Web pages.

But it was ME who put on the shorts…got out the door and decided to enter an event. ME. The motivation comes from within with an external action andlots of external support. And I love the effect.I love that I am making wise choices (ok, maybe not _all_ the time),pushing my body and finding out that it is resilient and can perform.