I use the same "take another step" technique as Al Horner when I go mountain hiking/climbing. It's hugely painful, and sometimes I wonder why I do it. Often, I feel like giving up, and just returning. However, by mentally forcing myself to take another step, and then another, I push myself. This is what being in the moment is really about. :)

I am often wondering what life would have been like had I gone the special forces route, instead of becoming an office rat. However, I know that back in the day I didn't have the mental strength to cut it.