Your training is held together by glue, and that ‘glue’ is
your self belief.
Possess self belief (along with the correct training and
resources) and you WILL succeed. End of
story. Counterpoints, arguments, and
reasons for this statement being incorrect will simply highlight the fears and
inadequacies that exist amongst some. Not
everyone possesses a belief that they can achieve anything they set out
for. Thus your goals, which are personal
to you, will be seen as an opportunity (by some) to give unsolicited advice as
to why you won’t succeed, or why your chosen course is wrong. These comments often come from those friends,
family members, and acquaintances who otherwise have your best intentions at
heart. But make no mistake, the
sentiments can unravel your dreams with just a few well selected, (and
ironically well intentioned), observations.
A few examples that I’ve heard from ‘friends’…
- “So what
percentage do you give yourself for succeeding??”. (Answer “100%” and I look arrogant, and
answer anything less and I create self doubt).
- “You could
die doing what you are doing, and your children will grow up with no father
figure”. (They were one of the first to
say ‘congrats’ for a ride I did last year).
- “If you’re
taking eight hours to ride that circuit your doing something wrong.” (Nothing asked about goals – 640km race,
pacing – base miles, or the time of day ridden – entire ride in the dark).
- “You’ll wear
yourself out. You are making a mistake
by doing so much”. (They never actually
asked what my training involved, and ironically I had just come off a six month
break from competitive sports).
These comments were all well intended, and I do not believe
that any were designed to undermine my goals.
Be wary of taking unsolicited advice from anyone. Instead, carefully choose your sources of
information, and only believe what works for you. There will always exist articles, research,
and experienced views that state you have the incorrect approach to your
training - no matter how good you get and what you achieve.
A few tips…
- Unsolicited comments often come from people
who have asked very little about what you are doing. They are often interested in giving advice,
and not listening about your goals.
- Remember why
you started towards your current goal.
Keep your goal in mind, and don’t be distracted.
- Find people
to trust, and above all else trust yourself.
‘Fear’ is the main reason why people won’t attempt
goals. As said by Marianne Williamson,
“There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel
insecure around you.”
Make your goals as big as your imagination…and never forget
that moment when it gave you Goosebumps when you dreamed up the greatest
sporting day of your life. It will come
to you.
Ride safe.
:)
Stu.
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