Staying in control

This morning we had a 4km set ahead of us.   It was pretty laid back, nothing too strenuous - 1500m warm up, 4x 50s, 100m, 4x50s, 100m, 5x 200s and finish off with a 1000m cool down.  We were reminded by our coach Vlad, that's it's not about the muscle anymore..it's all about the mind.  This is where I confess and say that I got out after 3km.  I couldn't finish it.  For the whole time by mind was whirling with negative thoughts, I was convincing myself that I can't do this.  It felt damaging and so I just got out.  I know that's OK as it's best to acknowledge those thoughts, deal with them and then move on.  I just thought I'd share this as now is probably the toughest time for me at the moment, it's the hardest part of the whole challenge!  


If you know me well, you'll know my habits leading up to something big.  I'm very good at planning and organising (hence Event Manager!), but I do get nervous and stressed on the final run up to an event, a big swim, a dinner that I'm hosting...  I start to lose focus and doubt myself.  My body tenses and this has a knock on impact with my health.  I am incredibly lucky with this particular challenge to have THE Steve Hopkins by my side who has been a tremendous support in reminding me to relax and trust myself! 

So my focus over the next 9 days is...keeping the focus!!  I've taken a day off work tomorrow to enjoy myself.  I'm not training in the morning so I can have a sleep in!  I've then booked a facial and hair appointment and I have a date with my gorgeous boyfriend in the evening.  It's going to be a opportunity for my mind & body to rest.  I have to trust myself that I can done all the preparation required and I am able to achieve this.  There's nothing else to worry about!

Keeping the focus!