Running isn’t just a workout—it’s a mental game, a personal challenge, and sometimes, a battle against social negativity. Running isn't just a physical challenge; it's a mental game and sometimes, a social minefield. From online trolls to in-person critics, negativity is a common hurdle. Four-time Olympian Eilish McColgan knows this all too well. But Eilish has found a way to flip the script, turning negativity into the ultimate motivation. Let’s dive into how she does it and how you can too.
Embrace the hate
Eilish McColgan has heard it all—trolls picking on her weight and body image despite her stellar achievements. Instead of letting it get her down, she uses it as a reason to shine even brighter. "I’ve learned to use the criticism as fuel," she shares. "Every negative comment is just another reason to prove them wrong, and myself right."
Her approach is simple yet powerful: don’t let negativity break you, let it drive you. "Use the harsh words as a stepping stone towards your goals," she advises.
Supporting every type of runner
Body image comments can hit all runners hard. McColgan stresses the importance of resilience and self-worth. "Runners need to understand that their worth isn’t defined by others’ opinions," she says. "Focus on your journey and your progress. The only person you should compare yourself to is who you were yesterday." Eilish stresses the importance of focussing on what your body can do, instead of what it looks like. “One person's ‘healthy fit and fast’ is not another person's. Some of us will be smaller, more compact, more muscular. Others are taller, elongated, stretched out, and that is just the way it is” she states. “It's ultimately finding what's healthy for your body and doing the training that suits you personally.”
Her tip? Build a support network of friends and family who understand the journey you are on, and can help keep you focused on your goal, whether that’s your first parkrun or your 10th marathon. "Surround yourself with people who uplift you and help you see your true potential," she recommends.
Fuel Your Fire
McColgan doesn’t just ignore the hate—she transforms it into a training booster. "When someone doubts me, it makes me train harder," she explains. "I think about their words during my toughest workouts, and it pushes me to go the extra mile."
This strategy can work for any runner dealing with criticism. Instead of stewing over negative comments, let them power your runs. Turn doubters into silent motivators, driving you to new heights. Struggling to lace up your shoes for that early morning run? Prove the doubters wrong and, more importantly, yourself right.
Embrace the noise and stay focussed
Running while processing negativity requires focus, and Shokz bone-conducting headphones are a game-changer here. These headphones let you enjoy your tunes while staying focussed and aware of your surroundings. "Safety is a big concern, especially when you're running alone," McColgan notes. "Shokz headphones let me stay focussed on the challenge ahead, as well as alert to what's happening around me, without sacrifice."
Shokz uses bone-conducting technology to transmit sound through your cheekbones, leaving your ears open to ambient sounds. Perfect for urban runners or those in busy areas. "I feel more confident and secure knowing I can hear traffic and other potential hazards," McColgan adds. "It allows me to fully concentrate on my run."
Motivation for runners
Eilish McColgan’s story shows us that criticism and negativity can be transformed into powerful motivators. Her resilience offers a playbook for runners facing similar challenges. By using negativity as fuel and seeking supportive environments, you can enhance both your performance and enjoyment of your running journey.
Running isn’t just about physical endurance but also mental strength. Let every negative comment push you to run your way. As McColgan wisely puts it, "Turn their doubt into your determination, and their hate into your strength."
It’s time to turn negativity into your secret weapon.
