In our community, we call each other RunFam. RunFam is someone who runs, supports and inspire those around them. 

In Meet the RunFam you will get to know some of them better, what drives them, what their struggles are and what has helped them get past them. Today you will get to meet Tiffiney Ladell

First off, could you introduce yourself and tell us how long have you been a part of I Love to Run?

Tiffiney. March/2020

What does the I Love to Run community mean to you?

A group of like minded individuals, that I draw motivation and support from. I like following the journeys of others and to hear how my journey has inspired other people.

What is your favorite part about the ILTR community?

The positivity, it is not an elitist group. Every mile and speed is celebrated. Admins are quick to respond when that culture is not honored. I love the various stages of running journeys represented in the group.

Any goals you are currently training for?

Speed. Trail racing and OCRs. I would love to run in a USATF Masters event (400/800m) in 2022.

What are you looking forward to?

Running long term. Even if I can’t compete, running will always be my first love. It is my constant when life has been unpredictable. Sometimes how far you run and how fast you go is all you can control.

How do you motivate yourself on off-days when you dont want to run?

Honoring the commitment I made to myself. When I’m struggling, I ask myself, “Who do you want to be today”. I have to be satisfied with how my actions answers that question.

What do you do to treat yourself after a run, a race or difficult day?

A massage and butter pecan ice cream. ❤

What was an apparent failure in your life that eventually turned out in your favour?

I let unhealthy norms in my former years distract me from being an athlete when I was younger. Missed out on opportunities in that area. But at 40 years old, I’m in the best mental and physical shape of my life. My journey was required for me to be who I am today. Being an older athlete definitely comes with more discipline.

What advice would you give your 10-year younger self?

See yourself as God does. You are going to be a hottie at 40. 

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, or have lost your focus temporarily, what do you do?

Appreciate that I’m having a human experience. Acknowledge how I’m responding to life and be even more intentional about taking I’m responding to life and be even more intentional about taking care of myself. Part of this is not telling myself these moments are intolerable and we need to escape with some unhealthy coping method. Instead I repeat the affirmation, “God has equipped me with everything I need for this moment”. It empowers me to deal and not escape. Prayer, focusing on what I can control, acceptance, and mindfulness helps me through these moments.

If you were cheering on a race where all the RunFam members were running, and you were holding a sign, what would you put on it?

lol Let’s Go Fam!!!!