If you find yourself in a stage where you don’t enjoy running as much, take a look at these tips from DoRunning, all intended to help you save time and effort so you can enjoy your run again.

1. If possible, establish a routine and run at the same time every day. If you are deciding when to fit into your career, you are wasting time.

2. Keep track of when you run – Mark your calendar and you will see that the race will improve.

3. Set your goal and then find out how to get there. Design a four-month career plan consisting of your weekly runs: long runs, sprint sessions, hill practice, and don’t forget your rest days. This way, you only have to look at your schedule when you walk out the door.

4. Try running first thing in the morning while you still have the will to do it. The longer you go through the day, the more likely you are to find other things to do and running will lose its priority status.

5. If you don’t have time for a full stretching routine, focus on your calves and hamstrings.

6. When you run, try to think positive thoughts. If you feel depressed, remember how far you have come in the last few weeks or months.

7. If you’re not sure where to start your tempo training workout, jog slowly in one direction for 30 minutes, then twist and run closer to your desired long-distance pace for 20 minutes. Trot slowly back to your starting place.

8. Instead of accumulating miles, set your goals and then set your mileage accordingly. Many runners train faster or faster to achieve their goals rather than savoring their miles.

9. If you want to run more but feel like you are struggling to increase your distance, take a minute to walk after every nine minutes of running. This will allow you to double the time you are away and you will feel good about the distance you are achieving. If this is still too difficult, take a walking break after every four minutes of running.

10. One day a week, don’t worry about your pace, time, or distance. Get up and out when you feel like it and just run and remember that you are an athlete.

11. Check your resting heart rate before getting out of bed. If your heart rate is above normal, then it could mean that you are tired and need a day off.