So, you’re running the Boston Marathon … Congratulations!

Whether it is your first or your tenth time running it, I hope you take some time to reflect on how special it is. Many people strive to run the Boston Marathon, but not everyone can. You’ve worked really hard to qualify, so, in between searching for a hotel and plotting out your training plan, while you’re running all the miles and lifting all the weights, take a moment and allow yourself to feel joy, pride, and excitement.

Did you feel it? Great. Now it’s time to get to work. You have many weeks of training ahead of you, and even if this isn’t your first marathon, or even your first time running Boston, every marathon is different.

At this stage in the training, it can feel overwhelming to think of how far you have to go. The road will get bumpy, and you will have days when you don’t feel like training. A good prevention tactic is to think of your why. Your Why will keep you motivated on days when motivation feels low.

This week’s mental rep:

Clarify your Why. Ask yourself: Why running? Why marathons? Why Boston 2026?

Write it down. Put it somewhere where you will see it often, like your bathroom mirror, closet door, or as your phone wallpaper.

In April, when you’re staring up at Heartbreak Hill with burning quads, your training plan won't get you over the crest—your "Why" will. Keeping your purpose front and center helps you keep your commitment.

What’s your Why this year? Share in the comments below!

Next week: Why you need to forget your time goals (for now) and master the process instead.