Commitment Continued

In the last post I spoke about what it took to tri - commitment and consistency. Since then I've been thinking more about commitment, specifically what it takes to be committed.

There are number of things in my opinion.

Goals

Goals re extremely important. Notice I said goals. In my opinion, we should set long term and short term goals. Long term goals sit on the horizon - reachable but from your present position still a long way off. Short term goals are your measuring sticks to determine progress.

But goals go even deeper because within the long term and short term buckets you can set goals related to outcome e.g. finish an event in a certain time. You can set goals related to process. e.g. setting a realistic training schedule. And you can set goals related to form and function e.g. improving your swimming technique.

So what ever your goals, if they are realistic, achievable (without being too easy), and measurable, you'll remain committed.


Tell Someone Your Goals

Having someone know your goals is a great way to keep up the commitment levels because you've now made yourself accountable. Make sure to make this an important person in your life who will give a kick in the behind if you are slacking off, and who you'd be a bit ashamed to let them know if you are not doing what you should.

Tri'ing for a Cause

While triathlon is very much an individual sport, training and racing in support of a worthy cause is an excellent way to stay committed. Because a group is counting on you, you don't want to let them down. This is an excellent motivator, and will help you get up early on Saturday to get your cycling miles in.

Tri'ing for yourself

For many of us, pulled in so many directions at work, home, we often neglect ourselves resulting in poor health - physical and mental (i.e. stress). It's easy to wonder how we let ourselves go because it happens so gradually. One day you look in the mirror and wonder who is that person.
So make the investment in yourself, start moving. The benefits are immense. Greater energy, improved health, mental sharpness, the ability to keep up with your kids, fewer sick days etc.
Doesn't that sound better than being a grumpy, tired, couch potato?

Stubbornness

No one likes to be told they cannot do something - it's insulting. And it makes me work even harder. So maybe you need to hear from someone that "there is no way that you'll be able to do a tri" Use that as motivation to remain committed and to prove them wrong.

So, whatever it takes for you, find it and keep tri'n.

Until next time.....