Mentally preparing for race day?
How do you guys mentally prepare for a competitive race/Boston qualifier. During my last BQ attempt my training went great. Felt great all the way through but the week leading up to race day I was emotionally/psychologically wrecked. Doubts. Nerves. Emotional roller coaster. Songs on the radio were bringing tears to my eyes if I had them on a running playlist. I was almost in tears at the start line. Missed my BQ by 2 minutes. I think a lot of it was it was my first well prepared, serious attempt at a BQ. I wasn’t SURE I was capable despite my half marathon and training paces all pointing to it. Now after 3 close calls I KNOW I can do it but I just need to perform on race day. I’ve won or placed in my age category in every half I’ve ran this year and finished on the podium in one (3rd place overall). I know a BQ is there. How do I stop the nerves and pre race doubts from derailing my BQ. There are candid photos of me at the start line from my last marathon and I look absolutely haunted. Any/all suggestions welcome. Going for a BQ on the 18th in the Baystate Marathon in Lowell, MA. Need sub 3:15 for a BQ, realistically 3:07 to make any cut offs.