What’s a Glimmer and Why It Matters for Runners
If you’ve ever been derailed by criticism or doubt, you know how easy it is to forget the bigger picture. That’s where a Glimmer comes in. A Glimmer is the opposite of a trigger—it’s that spark of joy, encouragement, or recognition that reminds you you’re on the right path.
As a running and strength coach, I’ve started building my own Bank of Glimmers. Each unsolicited compliment, each “thank you” from an athlete, each quiet note of appreciation gets added to it. It’s my reminder that even when coaching gets hard, my purpose is alive and well.
Coaching on the Fringe Isn’t Easy
Let’s be honest: coaching in the running industry is full of noise. The status quo is loud, quick to judge, and resistant to change. When you challenge it—whether you’re advocating for menopausal athletes, teaching Chi Running, or disrupting outdated training models—you’re going to get pushback.
That’s why my Glimmer bank matters. When the attacks come from people who don’t really know me, I can pull out real, tangible proof that I am making a difference.
How a Glimmer Bank Fuels Motivation and Purpose
Here’s what I’ve learned:
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Glimmers act as proof of impact when imposter syndrome sneaks in.
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They offer perspective when the critics get loud.
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They remind me that growth in running—and in life—isn’t just about numbers, PRs, or medals. It’s about the ripple effect you create in others.
When athletes thank me for helping them shake off doubt, when someone tells me my words landed at exactly the right moment, those aren’t just nice messages. They’re deposits in my Glimmer bank.
How to Build Your Own Glimmer Bank
This isn’t just for coaches. If you’re a runner, an athlete, or anyone carving your own path, you need this too. Here’s how to start:
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Capture unsolicited compliments. Save texts, write them down, screenshot DMs.
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Include the small stuff. Don’t dismiss a quick “thank you” or “that helped.” They count.
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Revisit often. Not just on bad days. Let your Glimmers fuel your everyday training and recovery.
Walking in Purpose, Even on Hard Days
Running teaches us resilience, but it doesn’t make us immune to doubt. The same goes for coaching. My Glimmer bank has become one of my most powerful tools—not because it inflates my ego, but because it grounds me in purpose.
So whether you’re chasing your next race, lifting through menopause, or navigating your own fringe path in sport, start collecting your Glimmers. The world will always hand out criticism for free. Your Glimmers? They’re your proof that you’re right where you belong.
Want more tools like this for building resilience in your running journey? Check out my Mindset Reset Mini Course or my Micro-Form Mastery Guide for practical ways to strengthen both body and mind.