I've been working on this theory, as I've started running again:

I believe that all gifted athletes are either dumb, (hence the jock stereotype), or have the ability to 'get dumb' when it is necessary.

Let me explain.

When I'm running, I've found that if I try to think too much I'll end up losing my edge, getting tired, and talking myself out of the work out. I've learned that if I shut off all non-essential thinking, reducing it essentially to "Breathe. Step. Breathe. Step." etc. my potential increases exponentially. I've heard it called "getting in the zone" but seriously, I'm just getting stupid for a while.

That's all, no moral to this one.

Deeper stuff to come...