The definition of a positive outlook is optimism i.e. you are expecting good things to happen, you view life as a challenge and consider that you have the confidence to deal with your chosen challenge. I pondered on this and considered it in running terms because running can take you away from our current lockdown situation, which is far less positive.

On a run we know where we are heading and based on previous experiences we know we are capable of achieving it. Therefore, we are looking forwards, with a degree of inner strength, based on our past.

Secondly, I do think there’s another layer that can be added to your positive outlook and that’s the fact that you know your route will be scenic. Yes, as Phil and Kirsty would say, location, location, location. Granted in these lockdown times it’s not as easy to strike out too far but hopefully we can all find a small slice of rural release.

The beauty of running through the countryside or along the coast is that it gives you both the challenges and the scenery therefore, from start to finish you have a positive outlook and as you reflect on your day that positivity is still there, maybe just under the surface, but undeniably influencing your mood.

What’s so great about the countryside I hear you say, “do me a favor !!”, the prospect of fresh air, open spaces and stunning views fill you with excited anticipation. I’d go as far as saying you feel grateful before you even get there !! I know I’m passionate about this subject but I do hope “you”, as the reader, can either relate to this or are interested enough to read on.

The rolling hills, the patchwork fields, the peace and the unspoiled views all mean you are absorbing your surroundings by purely paying attention to them. I never take my runs for granted because they feed your soul and it’s this energy and this life affirming glow that will make you more optimistic for the future, especially as 2021 hopefully opens up.

Take my first photo as an example, it’s a Summers day on the South Downs Way that climbs out of Winchester towards Cheesefoot Head. The contrasting colours are impressive enough but couple that with the view back towards the historic town and it’s a winning combination, all you have to do is get to the top !! The blood red poppies, the different shades of green that the hedgerows, grass and plants give you, the earthy brown soil and the aqua blue sky that looked like the sea near a tropical island all shape your positive outlook.

Now, have you possibly overlooked local routes ? I know I’ve enjoyed revisiting trails closer to home and even though they might not be quite as grand I’ve enjoyed running routes that bring back memories of people and places around my neck of the woods.

This second photo is from the outskirts of Fareham, once gain the sunshine puts a smile on your face but regardless of the season there’s so much to take in and connect with. It goes without saying you’ll experience the same whether walking or cycling and after all the countryside is there for everyone to enjoy.

There’s a field of sunflowers 🌻 to the left of this trail and when they are in full bloom it’s such an uplifting sight. Even as I’m writing I can see the yellow and gold combinations with the brown seeds. This imagine is in my mind regardless of the time of year that I run past so it’s both something to look forward to and reflect on.

I’ve included this local photo because I think it’s important to reinforce positive images that are accessible and close by because this keeps your experiences in the forefront of your mind due to them being familiar. You may drive to work or shop not too far away so you are reminded of your enjoyable adventures while going about your day to day activities.

It’s almost a way of subconsciously smiling when you see the trails you ran a few days or weeks before on your more mundane travels.

Your positive outlook can also be influenced by the people you meet on the trails because, due to their “out of the way” location, everyone has made an effort to get there so consequently they are also in a good mood. The phrase “good morning” really means just that, it is good, in fact it’s bloody great and we are all sharing it. In fact the initial hello is usually followed by where have you come from and how far are you going ? Again during lockdown I appreciate this is less likely to happen, but you’d be surprised.

I know we can only run with one other person at the moment and to be honest I’ve generally run on my own of late but when the time is right exercising with other positive people means you feed off each other.

I’m not saying outdoor exercise will take away all your negative thoughts but it certainly gives us a happy place to exercise in and enjoy. All you have to do is follow the signs, after all, the word footpath will always be linked to a positive outlook in my mind.

Thanks for reading,

Roger