388: Mantras And The Power of Self Belief with Don Oswalt

Today, we’re diving into a game-changing mental strategy: mantras. While often overlooked, mantras can significantly shift your mindset, helping you push through tough training sessions and race-day challenges.

We recently had the pleasure of speaking with Don Oswalt, a passionate triathlete who transformed his life and performance by starting his athletic journey in his mid-forties. Here’s what we learned from his inspiring story.

Finding Strength in the Journey

Don’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to embrace monumental challenges. At 44, after facing difficult personal hurdles, he turned to running and triathlons as a way to rebuild his strength—physically and mentally.

His journey shows that success isn’t just about raw talent or youth. It’s about mindset, resilience, and the willingness to take that first step, even when it feels daunting.

Embracing Growth Through Change

When Don started, he feared failure—a feeling we all know too well. But his breakthrough came when he reframed failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. By stepping out of his comfort zone, he not only became a stronger athlete but also gained the confidence to tackle challenges in other areas of his life.

For runners, this is a crucial takeaway: the real growth happens when you lean into discomfort and trust the process.

How Mantras Build Mental Strength

One of Don’s key tools for developing mental resilience is the use of mantras. Physical training is essential, but your mind often determines whether you finish strong or give up.

Mantras are simple, powerful phrases that keep you focused, motivated, and present during tough moments. For Don, they became a lifeline during races, helping him overcome self-doubt and stay connected to his goals.

How to Craft Your Own Mantra

Creating an effective mantra is personal—it should resonate deeply and feel authentic to you. Start by reflecting on what motivates and empowers you.

Examples:

• “I am strong, I am capable.”
• “Run the mile you’re in.”
• “You can do this.”
• "It's supposed to feel like this - that means you're doing it right."

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s believable and grounded in truth. Practice repeating it during training to solidify its impact before race day.

Practical Tips for Using Mantras

Don suggests incorporating mantras into your routine long before the race begins. Here are some of his tips:

• Write them down: Don wrote his mantras on his arms during his first Ironman, creating a visual reminder when he needed it most.
• Practice daily: Use your mantra during tough training runs or even challenging moments in daily life.
• Stay present: A good mantra helps you focus on the moment, not the miles ahead or behind.

Consistency, Rest, and Joy

While mantras can boost your mindset, a balanced training plan is just as important. Don emphasized the value of consistency and recovery. Overtraining can lead to burnout or injury, so listen to your body and schedule rest days to maintain long-term progress.

Above all, never lose sight of the joy that brought you to running or triathlons. Performance goals are great, but the deeper purpose of running is often rooted in passion and fulfillment.

Your Next Step

Don’s journey is proof that mindset is just as important as physical preparation. By crafting meaningful mantras, embracing challenges, and staying consistent, you can unlock new levels of performance and joy in your running journey.

Are you ready to take the first step outside your comfort zone? Start with a mantra that speaks to you and let it guide you through the toughest miles. Remember: growth begins when you push past your limits—and the reward is worth it.

Now, get out there and run your life!