Self-talk

     In the sports world, positive self-talk can be a powerful motivator when it comes to endurance.  The mind-over-fatigue concept using motivational phrases reduces the perception of effort and leads to optimum performance.  Positive self-talk in the face of defeat can cause an athlete to come from behind and win.
     Acting as your own cheerleader, you can tell yourself: "Drive forward." "Push through this." and "You're doing well."  Make up your own phrases or mantras.  You  have reserves of strength you may not be aware of.  This technique has been proven to work with athletes, and perhaps it can also work in the longest endurance feat ever - living a long, healthy life.
     We all can benefit when others act as our cheerleaders, but we must continually give ourselves positive, motivating messages.  When physical or mental fatigue creeps in, when we feel exhaustion of body and mind, when we feel defeated or ready to give up, we need to continue to work toward our goals.  Sometimes, we will alter our goals and take necessary steps to rest and recuperate.  We need to keep giving ourselves positive messages especially when those close to us may not be cheering us on.  Our finish line, the end of our game will come soon enough.  In the meantime, keep talking.