Give yourself mini-goals.
If you're really struggling, don't focus on how much farther you have to go. Just worry about getting to the next mile marker, the next water stop, or another landmark. Keep giving yourself small goals, so you don't feel overwhelmed by thinking about how far it is to the finish line.Focus on the positive.
Don't think back to bad races or terrible training runs in your past. Instead, focus on those races or runs when you felt really strong and confident and imagine yourself running the same way you did then.
Go fishing.
Focus on someone in front of you who you think you can catch. Imagine you're casting out a fishing line and hooking that person. Then imagine yourself reeling that person in, as you keep getting closer and closer to him.Find a mantra.
Picking a short phase, such as "One step at a time," that you play over and over in your head while running can help you stay focused and centered. It can be your inner motivation when you need it most. Mantras can be especially helpful when you're getting close to the end of the race and you keep repeating, "I can do this" or "I am tough", to push yourself to the finish line. You may already have a favorite phrase to use as a mantra, but if you don't have one, check out these quotes about running motivation and running marathons for some inspiration.
