Whether it’s getting out of bed for a 7:30 a.m. lab or completing homework before midnight, having intrinsic motivation to accomplish more is a daily struggle. Freshman Haley Grotbeck has mastered this practice, with plans to run the Lake Minnetonka Half Marathon in May.

“If you’re thinking about it, why not do it? Why hold yourself back?” Grotbeck said.

Grotbeck decided to race simply to have something to push herself to do. She has, however, faced some challenges. Aside from having to run alone and not having a running history, her biggest challenge is becoming “comfortable with being uncomfortable.”

Grotbeck has proven that she can overcome those challenges and is dedicated to her training. This dedication was personified the day she ran eight miles, a run that ended with her feet bleeding.

Grotbeck’s training also means she has had to incorporate a few changes to her lifestyle. She typically switches between cross training, strength and running, as well as eating healthy.

“You can’t out-train a bad diet,” Grotbeck said. “The View is OK, but you have to be conscious.”

As for training, she usually runs the longest on weekends.

“I’ve been known to run to Lulu and back,” Grotbeck admitted with laughter. “Sports clothing is all I wear.”

Her other favorite running spots include routes along Summit Avenue and the Mississippi River, as well as anywhere she can play her rap music and escape.

Above all, Grotbeck encourages people who have a goal in mind to “go for it.”

“You learn a lot about yourself,” Grotbeck said. “You’re capable of a lot more than you think.”

Sunita Dharod can be reached at dhar3490@stthomas.edu.