One skill that separates good from almost-good runners is an ability to concentrate for an entire race, whether it is a mile or a marathon.

You can't do in a race what you haven't prepared for.

Never underestimate the power that one good workout can have on your mind. Keeping the dream alive is half the battle.

I try to think about positive things - how great my form is, how my arms are swinging, my breathing, how loud people are cheering. My sports psychologist taught me there are a million things telling you you can't keep going, but if you find the things that say you can, you're golden.

Be unrelenting. If you don't believe, then who will?

In the end I have to hold myself accountable...I had to make a change if I really wanted to reach the goals I had set for myself. I had to get out of being comfortable and get into a situation that was going to really push me.

Get out there and do what you love!