How Letting Go of Perfection Made Me a Faster Runner

What if missing a run was actually helping you get faster?Trying to be the perfect runner? That mindset might be what’s holding you back. In this episode, I dive into why perfectionism leads to burnout and how embracing consistency—flaws and all—can actually help you run faster and stronger. I’ll break down the simple mindset shifts that turned my own running around, how to enjoy the process, and why missing a workout now and then won’t derail your goals. It’s all about small, daily improvements that compound over time. Let’s get into it.Key TakeawaysPerfectionism stalls progress—consistency is what truly compounds over time.Letting go of all-or-nothing thinking leads to more sustainable, enjoyable running.Small daily actions, even imperfect ones, are the secret to long-term success.Timestamps[00:02] Why chasing perfection is ruining your running[01:17] The power of consistency over perfection[02:06] How stopping while you feel good boosts long-term progress[03:05] The "fitness savings account" concept[04:05] Why zooming out helps you see the big picture[05:05] Magic Mind review: boosting focus & endurance[06:03] The balance of hard work and enjoying life[06:43] Making running fun—even when it’s hard[07:10] Embracing imperfection for lasting progress[07:49] The 1% Better Runner framework explainedLinks & Future LearningsGet your free 30 day 5K & Base training habits guide to get 1% better each day - https://dlakecreates.com/base5kfree🎧 Listen, read and learn more here https://dlakecreates.com/startrunning5k✨ Magic Mind 48% Off Your Next Order https://magicmind.com/DLAKE20DLake Runs on IG - https://instagram.com/dlakecreatesDLake Runs on Strava - https://www.strava.com/athletes/120507 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Om Podcasten

This is a podcast about how runners can live better lives through consistent self-improvement.Unlike other running brands, The 1% Better Runner focuses on how small, daily habit improvements ripple into broader life success, helping runners perform better both on and off the road, track, or dirt.I’m Daren DLake: Certified running and nutrition coach, Sub-3-hour marathoner and 10-hour Ironman finisher.Since 1996, I’ve been helping other self-coached runners, researching, and experimenting on how to better myself 1% each day.A few times a week, I’ll drop how I’m tweaking my training, sticking to habits when life’s messy, and cool stuff from coaches and health pros. It’s a no-BS cheat sheet for building better habits—not just for running, but for work, relationships, and personal growth too.Join thousands of other committed runners listening to the most exciting run and endurance sports content on the internet and get more tactics and strategies in your inbox each week.Bonus - Get my free 30-day base and habits training plan when you sign up for the free newsletter here.PS - Podcasting is very "1-way," so let's fix that. Hit us up if you have any feedback, want to collaborate, or just wanna tell me about your training. On Instagram @dlakecreates or talk@dlakecreates.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.