Cap10 Countdown: 6 weeks to go

There are six weeks left until the Statesman Capitol 10,000 on March 25. Hopefully you've set your sights on running or walking the big event and started training. Often when you start working toward a new goal, those first few days of excitement can be derailed by excuses.

Here are a few to watch out for:

I don't have time.

It's too early.

I'm too tired.

It hurts.

I can't do this.

I miss my kids.

I hate running.

It becomes a daily battle between wanting to work toward the goal and quieting the inner critic who says, "Don't bother." Next time you're staring at your sneakers, try countering the negative self-talk with a louder, positive reply.

I don't have time: I have at least 15 minutes. I can do anything for 15 minutes.

It's too dark: My headlamp will do the trick.

It's too early: The early bird catches the worm.

I'm too tired: Maybe if I worked out more often, I wouldn't feel so tired.

It hurts: I'm going to start small and focus on recovery afterward.

I can't do this: I can do anything that I set my mind to.

I miss my kids: I'll take them with me in a stroller.

I hate running: I will walk instead.

The thousands who cross the Statesman Cap 10K finish line every year haven't let excuses slow them down. You can do this. Sign up for the race today at cap10k.com.. Commit. Believe. Repeat. (And look for more tips and facts every Sunday in Venture Out).

— Mercedes E. Orten, event coordinator