There was a phase in my life, back when I was in my early 30s – yes, I know, that was a long time ago – when I managed to go for a run every morning at exactly 6:00 a.m. for half an hour.
This morning routine was a firm part of my daily life and helped me start the day with fresh energy. No matter what the day would bring, I always had that time for myself.
Back then, I lived in Düsseldorf, not far from Zoopark. My route was simple: I would run from my apartment to the park, do two laps around the park, and then run back home. The whole thing took about 30 minutes. I never measured the exact distance, and honestly, it didn’t matter. The goal wasn’t about the distance or the pace. All I cared about was spending half an hour in motion before the day officially began.
The weather? That didn’t matter either. Whether it was raining, snowing, or sunny, I put on my running shoes and hit the road. One memory that stands out is of a man I encountered almost every morning. He was Asian and ran the same route as I did, but he did it backward! It was an impressive and fascinating sight every time. I often wondered how he managed it, and what motivated him. It was odd but also inspiring to watch.
Now, 30 years later, that morning discipline is mostly a thing of the past. Although I still believe the early morning is the best time for a run, I haven’t been able to maintain that routine in recent years. My inner couch potato is stronger now than it used to be. Countless attempts to get back into the habit have failed. Maybe it’s my age, or maybe I’ve just gotten a bit too comfortable. But every time I skip a run, I think back to when it was second nature.
Still, I haven’t given up hope. I remember how good it felt to start the day with a run and how proud I was of myself afterward. That’s why I’m not giving up. I’ll keep trying. Who knows, maybe I’ll eventually manage to lace up my running shoes at 6:00 a.m. again. Let’s see if I can beat that inner couch potato – or if it continues to win.
