Cow Harbor Day - Northport Harbor, NY - 9/2011

As the Cow Harbor 10k race is approaching in the coming weeks, it suddenly became obvious to me during my last practice run of the course that running a race implies similar strategy as approaching a relationship.

In the beginning, even though the adrenaline rush is taking over and the excitement of the new is heightened, you can’t go out too fast at the start of a race, or rush a relationship to hurry love. Otherwise, you just won’t stand a chance to make it to the finish line strong or really give the relationship the opportunity to develop!  It’s all about pacing yourself in the race, and in a relationship. Get connected with yourself and the other person first, so you can determine if you’re compatible.

Challenging hills in a race represent obstacles on the course, in life, and in your relationship. How you choose to embrace those moments sets the tone for the rest of the course and in your relationship. Keep this in mind the next time you feel like giving up. Tell yourself if you can get through this obstacle, then you can get through anything.

Running downhill brings exhilarating moments, knowing where you came from and where you are going in the race and in your relationship. All the possibilities!

Relatively flat paths are when you are smooth sailing, yet staying so engaged and keeping up your pace. Similarly, in a relationship you should always put forth the effort by making your relationship a priority and also letting your partner know how much you appreciate him/her.

By the time you finish the race, hopefully you find yourself crossing the finish line as a stronger, more resilient self and as a couple because you have been through the ups and downs, and know how to face the challenges that will come your way. Let that sense of accomplishment and falling in love take over!

Know your goals, desires, and passions in life and in a relationship.
Take the necessary steps to achieve these goals, desires, and live out these passions.
Know when to let go and just let it flow.
Know when to fight for what you want.
Know when to take a step back and recover.
Know when you feel resistance within yourself, it means you’ve encountered an internal road block. This is the exact moment you need to keep going, face that resistance, and just try to overcome it.
Know you are in control of your pace, your life and your decisions.
Know that even when you have prepared yourself for what race day or what a relationship can bring, other factors you may not have considered may suddenly arise, therefore changing your strategy in that moment.
In the end, it’s about being fully committed to yourself, the race, the other person and to the relationship itself.

Most importantly, keep the faith and trust that it will turn out better than imagined because you have prepared yourself for what’s to come and you are ready. Allow yourself to take a risk, all with the intention to reach that place in your life where you can open your heart, mind, and soul, to connect with the moment, yourself and your partner.

Allow yourself to be liberated and to have that relationship you desire! Namaste!