1. Shade
Running in hot weather is bad enough, adding a perfectly sunny day just makes it worse. Nothing is better than coming across a patch of shade that gives you relief from the heat, even if it is only for 4 seconds (or .01 miles).
2. Running Buddies
Because two people complaining about something is better than one.
3. Attractive People
Seeing someone attractive is a great way to take your attention off of the pain you're enduring, and motivation to keep going because you'll seem super active and fit and healthy.
4. Dogs
They just make everything less horrible.
5. Pretty Scenery
Just like attractive people, a distraction from the ache in your legs and the sweat dripping from your nose.
6. Keeping the Same Pace
Pacing can be a difficult skill to acquire, but I always do a little cheer when I hear "Distance: One mile. Time: 7:25. Split Pace: 7:25. Average Pace: 7:25." followed by "Distance: Two miles. Time: 14:50. Split Pace: 7:25. Average Pace: 7:25."
7. Sprinklers
Anything to wash off the grimy sweat beading down your whole body.
8. Breezes
Wind that gives you a second wind.
9. Basically Anything That Cools You Off
Need I say more?
10. Shoulders
They just make everything easier. You don't have to move over for cars, cars don't have to move over for you, and cars don't have to stop if a car is coming the opposite way. Everyone is just happier.
11. Perfectly Mapped Routes
If you are like me, you don't like running more or less than you planned to. When you go for a four mile run, decide to run a new route, and it ends up being exactly four miles >>>
12. Your Shoe Laces Staying Tied
Nothing is more annoying than having to stop every quarter mile because your old, fringed shoe laces keep coming untied. C'mon, do that double knot.
13. Not Having To Stop For Cars
When you finally get in the groove of your run just to stop and wait for seven million cars to pass.
14. The Right Level Of Hydration
Two words: Cramps. Suck.
15. Any Reason To Stop
Running can be horrible, but you chose to do it, so you must enjoy some part of it. Push through, you'll be glad you did once you finish.
16. Rewarding Yourself After
You earned that slice (or 5) of pizza, girl.
