4: New Year, Same Brain: Running Goals Without Burnout

In this episode, Laura and Will discuss how to effectively plan running goals for the new year, especially for those with ADHD. They emphasize the importance of setting realistic and flexible goals, defining personal motivations, and creating a supportive environment. The conversation covers strategies for choosing races, maintaining motivation, and embracing the journey of running, highlighting the significance of community and personal transformation along the way.

Chapters

00:00 Setting the Stage for 2026 Running Goals

01:15 Understanding ADHD and Running Challenges

03:39 Defining Your Why: The Anchor Goals

07:39 Establishing the Big Three Goals

13:06 Choosing Races Wisely

19:08 Creating a Flexible Training Plan

22:39 Externalizing Memory for Success

29:14 Building a Reset Plan for Slumps

32:18 Normalizing Goal Adjustments

34:46 Facing the Dopey Challenge

38:28 Personal Transformation Through Running

Takeaways

• Plan your running goals to avoid burnout.
• Define your 'why' to stay motivated.
• Set a main goal, a supporting goal, and a joy goal.
• Choose races that align with your life circumstances.
• Flexibility in planning is key to success.
• Build a support system to keep you accountable.
• Create a reset plan for motivation dips.
• Adjusting goals is not a sign of failure.
• Find joy in the running experience.
• Community support enhances the running journey.

If this episode reminded you that you’re not the only runner whose brain sprints faster than their legs, spread the word! Share it with a friend, post it to your stories or send us a message at [e-mail]. We’re building the ADHD/neurodivergent running/walking community that should’ve existed ages ago, and you’re helping to bring us all together! Welcome to the Wired Family!