One of the hardest steps in any sport or training regime is often just getting started. It is easier to go from one to 100 than it is to go from zero to one. This is why it is so important to develop a winning mentality straight away. If you go into your training thinking that you will never improve, then you have given up before even getting started.
DON’T Focus on the Bigger Goal
Most people like to say that to succeed, you need to “keep your eye on the prize.” This is sound advice in the long term, but when you are out on the track running while your eyes burn from the sweat, your knees ache from the impact, and your muscles just want to quit, that is not the time to focus on the larger goal. In these moments, whether it be in training or competition, always remember, focus on the next goal, not the ultimate goal.
By focusing on smaller goals, rather than the ultimate goal, you allow yourself a mental reprieve. It is much easier to tell yourself, “Just another mile,” ten times than it is to keep telling yourself, “10 more miles.”
Find Your Idol
Find someone in your sport that you can look up to as an idol. Ideally, this would be someone you know and can compete with regularly, but a professional athlete can work just as well. The point is, find someone that you can look up to.
Once you have found your idol, train until they become your rival. Having a rival is one of the most effective means of motivation when it comes to athletic training. It is easy to slack off when you have no one to compare yourself to but having a rival to compete with will keep you both on your toes.
Track Your Progress
Don’t be afraid of showing off your accomplishments. Whether it is for a 5k or full marathon, medal displays can have a considerable impact on your mental preparedness. Medal hangers are a great way to decorate your living area and display your accomplishments. Seeing your past accomplishments and what you have overcome already is a great way to stay motivated.
You can even create your own swimming medal hanger design at Victory Hangers. They offer medal hangers for several different sports, not just running, and even offer custom designs. They also offer motivational hangers as well, such as designs that increase in distance from 13.1 to 26.2 as well as other distances to show how far you have come.
It Is All About You
There are several things that you can do to improve your mentality while training, but in the end, it all comes down to you. Your commitment, your dedication, is what is going to drive you to the finish. Always remember, you are stronger than you were yesterday. Keep training, and you can reach your goals.
