On the 24th of this month, many of us will be competing. Come race day, training ends and there is nothing physically you can do to change your preparedness; however, there is one major factor on race day that will impact the outcome of the event.
On race day, or any day for that matter, your mind, your thoughts, what you are telling yourself, is critical to your success or failure. I hear my own excuses when I talk with many of you about the pace of my run and bike. I catch myself already preparing others for why I may not perform well. What are you telling yourself?
We have incredible power. It's so incredible that it can allow a person to lift a car when a person is trapped below. That power is within us all. I don't expect to be "lifting cars" on race day or setting world records, but you can make a difference in how well you do by the words, thoughts, and feelings you have about your abilities.
I have not broken through where the mind can completely overcome the lack of training so for me, there are still limits to my expectations. What I do know is that I can change how I react and feel about what appears to be lead weights that have replaced my legs at the start of my run!
For some of you, swimming is your nemesis. You have been training for it. The only thing in your way now is fear and, in some cases, lack of control. Trust yourself and start out at a steady "Sunday Stroll" pace. If you get in trouble, roll over on your back and get air. Keep moving forward with backstroke.
We are fortunate to be part of clubs that have incredible support networks. We may have fun inner rivalries, but everyone in our clubs is cheering you on for success. Keep that in mind as you start to hit that wall and your mind begins to falter.
In the end, the only person each of you will truly be competing with is yourself. This is a battle many of us deal with every day. Remember that when you pass someone on the trail or see them at the pool. You aren't alone in your struggles.
Good luck and I look forward to seeing you at practice or the race!
