Is Your Perspective The Problem?
+ a simple exercise that may just be able to fix that.
Welcome back to the Weekly Hurdle! This newsletter is free and will stay free thanks to sponsors and the individuals that opt-in to give. If you love reading this week after week, consider becoming a paid subscriber by clicking the button below.
Presented by Brooks Running:
This week, I felt really empowered and inspired by Alex Elle’s “Joy Spotting” challenge. The (simple) gist: Keep track of small (regular) joys. I started a new iPhone note in my elevator this morning, when I looked down and admired two, too-cute French bulldogs grunting waiting to get outside for their morning walk. On my run, I noticed a few tulips breaking through the dirt near my apartment, caught a sniff of pine a few times that reminded me of Christmas, and then ran by a man I’ve seen running around the neighborhood before — we greeted each other and he said “have a nice run.”
BTW: If you haven’t listened to Alex Elle on Hurdle, get to that.
The takeaway, one that she talks about a bit, is that joy doesn’t need to emerge in your every day in some big, profound way. Rather, there’s so much goodness around us at any given moment, if only we choose to focus on it.
I’ve given this example before: You’re sitting at a café having a coffee. It’s a nice day outside, but there’s a dirty puddle of water near the curb next to you. There’s also a sweet, elderly couple crossing the street arm-in-arm. You have the choice: Do you notice the puddle of dirty water, or rather crack a simple smile looking at the couple?
The power is in your perspective.
Trust me: When you choose to focus on the good things, not only will you notice how much of them there are in your day-to-day — but you’ll attract more of it into your life, too.
Keep hurdling,
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Listening To: “Adam Grant - Hidden Potential” on Self-Conscious with Chrissy Tiegen
New podcast with Chrissy, and I really like Adam — so I was drawn in here yesterday. A big through line on this: Success is really rooted in passion. The people who go on to be the best in their fields are often more passionate, not necessarily more talented. I’m excited to follow along to see how Chrissy grows as she podcasts more.
If You’re In New York, Check Out: Breath Lessons with Luke and Kristina at Motiv on Wednesday, 3/12
My physical therapist Luke and dear friend Kristina are co-hosting a refreshing workshop next week involving both movement and breathwork. They’re some of the best coaches I know, and I can guarantee you’ll walk out with a greater sense of calm than you walked in with.
I’m Reading: Part Of Your World by Abby Jimenez
I was about to begin Yours Truly when my sister told me that I’m supposed to read this one first. (Apparently, there are three that go together, the third being Just for the Summer.) Starting it last night, and I’m geeked to spend no less than three hours reading it on the flight to Austin later today. Will you be at SXSW? If so, email me!
Gear I Love: Athleta ‘Power of She’ Sweatshirt
In honor of International Women’s Day tomorrow, Athleta is selling this super cute sweatshirt for only $49. Even better, through Monday — all proceeds will be donated to the Power of She Fund, which serves to empower women and girls to reach their limitless potential. The sweatshirt runs true to size, I got a small, and it’s super cozy.
Quote I Love: “I try to remember what my body does for me, how strong it is. Give yourself some grace. Remember that our bodies are constantly changing and will constantly change the rest of our lives.” — Ilona Maher
Other thoughts and links: Last week, I snuck a giveaway into the Weekly Hurdle. Congrats to our winners Breanna Sorg, Kelly Jaffe, and Lauren Martin! Shoot a note to hello@hurdle.us, and we’ll get you squared away. Yesterday, I went to an event hosted by Verizon ahead of Global Day of Unplugging. It had me thinking about the tools I use to take much-needed space from my phone. I’d say the most helpful things in my toolbox for unplugging are my Kindle (reading counts!) and the Brick. This week, Adidas announced a new partnership with Camila Mendes, and I think it’s sweet. Soccer great Sophia Wilson (nee Smith) is expecting, and the announcement’s adorable. Really cool job alert: VP of Growth Partnerships at Oura.
Have something you want me to nod to in an upcoming Weekly Hurdle, or just want to say hi? Slam the button below:
MY SOMETHING NEW
One of my goals for 2025 is to do something new every single week. I wrote about this a few weeks back. Dig it? Let me know in the comments below ⬇️
Sunday, March 2: Wine Tasting at Roscioli
I went to Roscioli when I was in Rome last year (the original location), and I have been meaning to get to their New York outpost ever since. Did their $90 wine tasting over the weekend, which was nestled in their oh-so-adorable wine cellar (if you’re looking for a private event space in New York, this could also be outstanding for that). It included three different wines, each pairs with bites (the most delicious bread, anchovies, and butter, a radicchio salad, and amatriciana). I thought it was a great deal, a perfect experience for friends or perhaps even a fun date night. Definitely need to get back to the restaurant soon to do a full dinner situation.
A huge thank you to Brooks Running for sponsoring Hurdle in March.
It feels like just yesterday when I first collaborated with Brooks leading up to the 2018 New York City Marathon, sitting down for a live, crowd-facing interview with Des Linden (I was super nervous). Since then, we’ve partnered in a number of ways — from activations at the Boston Marathon and the Olympic Marathon Trials. This month, Brooks tapped in to support the show, and asked me to share my sentiments on their newest shoe, the Glycerin 22!
I’ve been putting the neutral sneaker through the paces, that’s for sure. I did my 11-mile long run in it last weekend, and then took it out for some 400-meter repeats on Thursday. I felt free on distraction-free and comfortable on both. I love a sneaker that you don’t think twice about being on your feet.
Plus, the double jacquard knit upper is like a second skin, offering a flexible accommodating fit that moves with me regardless of pace. I’ve also got to mention the foam on this shoe: It’s DNA tuned and nitrogen-infused. I know, that sounds fancy. Essentially, it’s made up of larger cells in the heel, that help to provide plush landings, and smaller cells in the forefoot, which make for a super responsive toe-off.
The Glycerin is definitely a staple in my regular shoe rotation, and a great pick to add to your collection. Get yourself a pair of the Brooks Glycerin 22 today by heading on over to brooksrunning.com.
🎧 NEW EPISODE: 245. Learning True Balance: Jess McClain On Finding The Fun In Running & The Power Of The Reframe
Jess made big waves last year when she came in fourth in both the Olympic Marathon Trials and the 10K at the Olympic Track and Field Trials. In this week's episode, she talks so beautifully about rediscovering the fun in running by involving herself in other activities and pursuits. She shares what it’s like to work full-time for a non-profit while also following her passions within sport, gives some really beautiful advice on the importance of listening to your body, and talks about what she’s looking forward to in the years to come leading up to LA28.
HOW CAN I SUPPORT HURDLE?
I’m so, so glad you asked!
SUBSCRIBE, RATE, AND REVIEW HURDLE:
We’re now over 1,400 ratings and reviews in the iTunes store! Go on, get after it.
iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher | Anchor
JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP
Another (weekly) Hurdle conquered. Catch you guys next week.
Yess to the joy spotting challenge! It has become our family’s favorite 5 minutes every night 🥰 we’re looking for things every day to share with each other that made us smile/happy!