We all have problems to deal with that vary in importance, but some seem to take on the weight of the world. A great way to get dedicated time to solve your world problems is to go for a run. The uninterrupted time to really focus and change your scenery can deliver results you wouldn’t expect. We will share some benefits and tips to be the most effective.
Benefits of Running to Solve your World Problems
The common expression of “continuing to do the same thing and expect different results” can lead to frustration. Whether it’s dealing with a problem at work, your family, or your friends, a single issue spiraling without a solution can feel like we are bearing the weight of the world. A good way to attack this problem is to get out for a run and think through things. Here are some benefits of running to solve your world problems:
- Dedicated and focused thought: With the abundance of technology making our lives more interconnected, getting dedicated time to think through a problem can be tough to come by. Leaving your technology behind can give you that additional focus you need to solve a problem.
- Change of Scenery: Changing your environment can be very impactful. Getting outside to see something other than a phone, computer, or indoor space can give a fresh perspective. It can help you see something other than the problem.
- Clarity of the Mind: Exercise increases blood flow, which can help you think clearer. It can increase energy levels and elevate your mood to be more motivated to solve your world problems.
- Interrupt Overthinking: Thinking through a problem for too long can make you feel like you are hitting a wall and not progressing forward. Giving a pause and resuming in a different environment can help.
Achieving that Cognitive Clarity
Thinking through problems while running can be a great way to bring resolution by following these tips:
- Leave your tech at home: I bring a watch and headphones with me, but I listen to something to will allow my mind to wander and not be a distraction. If you want to achieve clarity, leaving everything at home would be the best. If you bring your tech with you, make sure it doesn’t become a distraction.
- Plan a run long enough: If you are solving big enough problems, planning a few mile run may not give you enough time to fully think through an issue. Plan a longer run than normal, but within your comfort zone. The extra time will allow you enough time to vet new ideas or think through potential solutions to a problem.
- Set boundaries: Problems can seem infinite in size when trying to solve your world problems. Make sure you clearly understand the problem or issue and set a boundary where you can. When I have encountered an issue at work, I usually start with the highest priority issue first and think through the areas I can impact in the short term. I then will follow up with longer term solutions.
- Run your usual Route: Remove anything new from your route to prevent distraction. This can of course be more challenging if you run through busier areas, but choosing a path you’ve run before can reduce another variable of distraction. I can remember the exact spot along my route that I came up with that a solution to a pression work issue.
- Run Solo: If you always run with someone else, this may be the time to go solo. Remove as much distraction as possible.
Running towards your Problems and not Away from Them
The benefits of running extend beyond purely physical gains and can be a great motivation to incorporate it into your normal routine. It can help you solve a problem or come up with the next big idea. The exercise will improve your cognitive ability. Getting outside will provide that change of scenery that can get you to think differently. Remember to run within your means and remove distractions. The next billion dollar idea could be waiting for you out on the running trail!