Where Your Focus Goes, Your Energy Flows
Turning lemons into lemonade is simply a matter of logistics.
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. Please, consider doing so. Your support is really appreciated!
Presented by Bandit:
Two years ago during Boston Marathon weekend I got some devastating news. I remember I was on my way to host a live show with Des Linden, in an Uber with tears welling in my eyes. I didn’t have the option of postponing or not showing up, so I did what any self-respecting woman in her early 30s would do before going to speak in front of 150 people: Take a slew of deep breaths, use my iPhone as a mirror to ensure that I didn’t have black mascara running down my cheeks, and grabbed a glass of wine upon walking inside from the bar (I knew Des would approve).
With my wine in hand, I went to the bathroom and looked at myself in the mirror. I was flushed, and felt the sweat starting to accumulate on my lower back under my orange suit. I distinctly remember wishing I had eye drops, closed my eyes, and counted to 10. When you open your eyes, you’re going to be all here, I thought.
… and that’s what I did. As easy as it is to recall the particulars of that teary Uber ride, I also remember the feedback from that night, the hilarious podcast that we recorded, the praise, the hugs. I’ve had a lot of pivotal moments teach me about the value of focusing my energy and responding (instead of reacting) to my thoughts — but that one, where I chose the good — I always think back to it.
I’ve been doing that a lot lately, you know? Choosing to focus on something great instead of something … not-so-great. And although it’s not always easy to make that perspective shift and reframe, I never, ever regret it. And no, it doesn’t require vino every time. (If you’re wondering about my favorite? I’ve been really into Tinto Amorio Monje orange wine lately.)
So, try it this weekend — the reframe — yeah? Or maybe next week? You may just be surprised what good pops up, if you only remember to take notice.
Keep hurdling,
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Listening To: Finneas on Armchair Expert
After watching the Billie Eilish: The World's a Little Blurry documentary last year, I became so enamored with Finneas (Billie’s brother), who is a mega-talented, award-winning songwriter and music producer. This episode of Armchair is a must-listen.
I’m Going To: Women’s Community Night with Nike, Saturday, April 13, 8 p.m., Nike Boston
Join me for a speakeasy experience like no other. We'll be celebrating the starting line and women’s running leading up to Marathon Monday. Enjoy an orange carpet arrival (hehe), a panel featuring Nike elite athletes, light bites and drinks, and more. P.S. The special registration code is “startingline” — pass it on.
Gear I’m Loving: Goodr Pop G
I’ve been going back and forth between the tortoise and black shades in this style all week. They’re perfect for running, since they’re no-bounce and polarized, but they’re also stylish enough to wear wherever else your heart desires. Use code “HURDLE” at checkout to get free shipping!
Prompt I’m Loving: Who is someone that inspires you to be a better you? What do you admire about them?
Quote I’m Loving: “To offer no resistance to life is to be in a state of grace, ease, and lightness.” — Eckhart Tolle
Thanks to Bandit — a Brooklyn-based apparel brand — for supporting Hurdle.
Bandit’s new Spring Collection was recently released and it’s … insane. The colors are stunning (the deep cherry is my favorite), their new ribbed compression tops and bottoms are stunners, and they came out with a brand new perforated short fabric that has to be the lightest pair I own.
I’ll be hanging out with Bandit this weekend at their Boston Marathon pop-up at 119 Newbury (more information here). Come stop by any point until Tuesday to snag exclusive product, happy hours, shakeout runs, post race portraits, and more!
Not up in Mass this weekend? No problem. Go check out the collection now, as things on Bandit tend to go very quick. Also while you’re at it, follow their Instagram for updates on re-stocks and events they have coming up this Spring. Use code HURDLER15 for 15% off your first Bandit order — in store and online at BanditRunning.com through April 16.
This week I'm welcoming Erin Azar, also known as @immrsspacecadet on social media, to the podcast and we talk all about hacks to get you out the door to move your body. Erin shares her tips for showing up when you don’t want to, why an accountability partner can make all the difference, and why choosing the right gear can make all the difference. The NonMembers Only podcast host even lets us in on what she’s blasting through her air pods while out on the run (it might get you by surprise).
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.