Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way to Victory
by Deena Kastor
In "Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way to Victory," Deena Kastor explores the powerful connection between mindset and personal achievement, particularly within the context of competitive running. Central to her narrative is the distinction between success, defined by external accolades, and excellence, rooted in internal values and self-acceptance. Kastor emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive mindset, asserting that our happiness hinges on the thoughts we nurture. Key themes include the significance of self-encouragement and the need to shift perspectives to overcome challenges. Kastor illustrates that running is not merely a physical endeavor; it is a mental journey where the heart leads. She highlights the role of resilience and the necessity of recognizing one's inner strength, suggesting that belief in one’s capabilities can profoundly impact physical performance. Kastor also advocates for balance in life, demonstrating how prioritizing family and health can coexist with athletic pursuits. With a focus on personal growth, she encourages readers to take ownership of their mindset, suggesting that control over one’s thoughts equates to control over one’s outcomes. Ultimately, Kastor’s memoir serves as a testament to the limitless potential that arises from a positive mindset, perseverance, and the courage to embrace one’s journey.
12 popular highlights from this book
Key Insights & Memorable Quotes
Below are the most popular and impactful highlights and quotes from Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way to Victory:
Oh, you're doing it again, I said to myself when I became aware of negativity, being careful not to rebuke myself and therefore wind up being negative about being negative. I told myself: Find a thought that serves you better.
At the core of many of his stories was a distinction between success and excellence. Success was “having”: money, awards, status. Excellence was “being”: living your values, having them guide your daily life. Pursue excellence, Coach would say, and success will follow.
Our happiness depends on the habit of mind we cultivate.
I'm alone, but I'm not lonely. I like who I am. I like who I'm becoming.
That’s when I understood there is no such thing as overtraining,” he said, “just underresting.
She was compassionate and empathetic toward everyone around her, including herself.
If you believe you are fragile, the biochemistry of your body unquestionably obeys and manifests it. If you believe you are tough, irrespective of your weight and bone density, your body undeniably mirrors it.
Our life is what our thoughts make it. —MARCUS AURELIUS
Every aspect of a run, from the pain it produced to the weather conditions, offered me a choice: Is this a thought that will slow me down? Or can I find a perspective that will speed me up?
You don't run with your feet- you run with your heart.
I’m alone, but I’m not lonely. I like who I am. I like who I’m becoming. I felt whole and good and content, and lay there letting the feeling soak in. When the water cooled, I grabbed a towel and climbed out of the tub, feeling like I had everything I needed to succeed.
My competitive days had a short window, but I could push my mind and strengthen my positivity for a lifetime. How optimistic could I become? How much richer could I build my life? What joy and potential lay ahead. Pursuing positivity felt infinite, limitless.
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