Not dead. Can’t quit.

Starting a new venture is a lot like preparing for an endurance event. First, you need to approach the starting line with respect for what’s ahead as well as the confidence gained from knowing you've done your best to prepare for what’s about to happen.

And then? You need to be ready for that confidence to be completely shattered as soon as you encounter your first set back.

“What was I thinking?” “They’re right. I AM crazy.” “I don’t think I can finish.” “I think I’m lost.” “Uh oh. I just tweaked my knee.” “Did I lock the car?”

From the directly applicable to the random and borrowed, once the first note of doubt sings, it often turns into a song. For many of us, the first instinct is to give into The Chorus of Doubt. Face it. The Chorus has a catchy tune that’s usually easier to sing along to than the lesser known Melody of Confidence.

So, what are some strategies for overcoming The Chorus, and how can obstacles be seen as something other than potential indicators of defeat?

(Photo credit: Copyright ©2014 Will Barnes. All rights reserved.)

I recently trained for a 50-mile run. After listening to countless stories of ultramarathoners, I was struck by the number of elite and amateur runners who relied on simple phrases to alleviate doubt, reinstill their confidence and pull themselves through the tough times.

"One foot in front of the other.” “It never always gets worse.” "It hurts to walk. It hurts to run. I might as well run." And my favorite: “Not dead. Can’t quit.” Useful reminders for managing discomfort on the road ... and in life.

What also impressed me was the ultrarunner perspective on barriers. When these amazing humans encounter obstacles in a race, rather than give into feelings of defeat, they use challenges as fuel to keep going.

Ultimately, by accepting the nature of their circumstance, the runners had a respect for what it was teaching them. For most, that meant accepting that what they were attempting was most certainly going to be difficult or even grueling, yet THAT’S what made it meaningful and why they showed up in the first place. Acceptance is what enabled them to find joy in the process and commit to what they were doing regardless of the barriers they encountered.

My friends assure me not everyone is cut out for ultrarunning. But you don't have to run a long way to encounter obstacles and discomfort. Life gives us plenty of opportunity to practice. And you can count on doubt hitching a free ride any chance it gets especially when you’re trying something new.

So, next time you hear the haunting tunes of The Chorus what will you do? Turn it up and sing along? Change the station? Or maybe just smile and let it fuel you to the finish.