Hey friends, it’s Elizabeth from Elizabeth DeHart Fitness. I wanted to take a moment to share something personal that’s been on my mind since I tore my meniscus during the Spartan Beast race on November 2nd. This injury has forced me to reflect deeply on what happened and how I got here.
When I first started doing Spartan races, it was all about proving someone wrong, my ex had done them and told me I wouldn’t be strong enough. So, of course, I felt like I had to show them (and everyone else) that I could do it. What began as a challenge turned into an obsession. Before long, I'd completed not just one but a trifecta this spring, a beast, super distance, and sprint distance, all because I thought those medals would somehow validate me.
But here's where things went sideways for me. Instead of celebrating each achievement and taking time to appreciate what they meant personally, my ego pushed me further. It wasn’t enough; I needed more proof that I was strong and capable. That need drove me to sign up for yet another race when deep down, maybe part of me knew it wasn't the right choice.
As I've reflected on this journey, I've realized there are some old wounds from childhood tied up in all of this, the feeling that being seen or loved depended on what you achieve. Whether it was running multiple half marathons or training for both a marathon and half Ironman at once, I always felt like I had something to prove.
The day of the race is still fresh in my memory. Instead of listening to my body or acknowledging any doubts creeping in, I put on this tough exterior, an “eff the world” attitude, and convinced myself that nothing could stop me. But pushing through with such bravado led directly to my injury, a mistake born out of pride rather than wisdom.
Now that I'm recovering, not just physically but emotionally too, I’m learning so much about self-acceptance and understanding what really matters: how I see myself instead of worrying about others’ opinions. It's become clear that focusing inward is crucial if we want true happiness.
This experience has taught me that strength isn’t only about physical accomplishments; it's also about emotional growth and resilience, qualities we often overlook while chasing after goals set by society's standards.
Moving forward means redefining success for myself, embracing who I am without needing constant validation through achievements or accolades from outside sources!
I've started incorporating mindfulness practices into my daily routine, it helps create space for reflection away from distractions around us every day! Talking openly with friends and seeking support have also made a huge difference; sharing feelings allows us to peel back layers we've built over time so we can heal together!
Thank you for letting me share this vulnerable side today! Remember: true strength comes from within, not just from proving anything outwardly, but knowing your worth exists regardless of recognition received elsewhere along life’s winding path ahead!
Stay strong,
Elizabeth
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