Body Vs. Mind

I guess you can call me a runner. I run therefore I am, right?
I have always tried to stay healthy and in shape, but instead of doing a little here and a little there I now am setting goals and pushing my body despite how it may whine and cry.
On March 20 I will be embarking on my first 5K race adventure with the 38th Annual Al Kayner's St Patrick's Day Race in Bay City. 5K... not a big deal. But I don't just want to finish but finish well (there is most definitely a difference).
I ran 3.5 miles today and an internal struggle between my mind and body weighed heavy. I'm a poor self motivator. I like to think of myself as a social runner. I push myself more when running with friends. It's more of a distraction maybe... or less boring. Who knows.

But anyways let me replay the situation for you:
Body (particularly the calves) — I feel tired. I feel tight. Please slow down... or stop all together.
Mind — Focus on the goal. Keep running. To improve I must push myself.
Body — C'mon. A little rest wouldn't be bad. I could always run more tomorrow...
Mind — NO. Bad idea. Run. Run. Run.
Body — Fine. *sigh*

To those of you who think you can't get in shape, you can't run, you are letting your body complain and win.
Often my body does win. I come up with excuses or take it easy for a night, but I want to change my habits, improve my health and feel invincible as I continue to cross more finish lines and surpass more goals.

I'm not saying I will turn into a addicted runner who would go crazy without it and I will probably never run a marathon. But I won't deny the benefits of a good run: stress relief, fresh air, feeling of accomplishment and an in shape body.
So as I prepare for the race next month with my friend Alex and Lindsay (check out her blog as she's preparing for the Chicago Marathon, runs with asthma and deals with injuries) I will push myself to listen to my mind and not my body.

With that said I need advice. Calling all runners: Leave me some tips on how to prepare for a 5K, 8K and eventually a 10 mile race. The Crim is my ultimate goal.

Happy Running :)