CRAIG PRODUCTIONS LLC

I was training a client this morning and she was having a tough time getting into the workout. It’s been like this for several weeks now. At our training facility, the clients rotate trainers, so my colleagues have also noticed this change in the client’s fitness level and ability to push herself and be pushed by us. Anyway, as I was training her this morning I realized how much of training (or anything else in life, for that matter) is 100% mental. I wanted to shake her and tell her to get out of her head and PUSH through it. But I felt that would be counterproductive so I restrained myself.

I realized in that moment how important that mental strength is, especially here in the final weeks leading up to a competition. I can’t tell you how many times I feel like I’m too tired to train, too tired to get up at 3:15 and do cardio. And sometimes, believe it or not…I’m too tired to eat! We have to tap into that mental toughness and strength to power through and keep going.

We’ve all set a goal to get on that stage in April and therefore, we must be committed to do whatever it takes to reach that goal as successfully as we possibly can. When we’re as close as we are I find that I constantly have to take measures to refocus and center myself. I remind myself why I’m doing this and why it’s important to me and what the ultimate payoff is when I reach my goal. When I tap into that energy, it helps give me the mental strength to keep going.

I also have noticed that being surrounded by people who completely support my goal and what I’m trying to achieve makes an amazing difference in my ability to forge ahead with as much energy as possible. Toxic people will drain you (those would be the people who are less than supportive or criticize you in any way) and positive, inspiring people will energize you like you wouldn’t believe. I am fortunate to be surrounded this time by so many wonderful people who want to help me along my journey to reach my goal. Last year it was quite the opposite, with constantly being reminded that my competing was dragging my family down. That negative influence just requires too much emotional energy and it’s not worth it.

Take some time to remember why you’re doing this - write it down. While this whole process is grueling and challenging and so much work than most people would ever imagine, it is supposed to be fun and give us joy. Refocus on your goal.

“To believe in yourself and follow your dreams, to have goals in life and a drive to succeed, and to surround yourself with the things and people that make you happy - this is success!” ~Sasha Azevedo

~Julie~

Fearless, with cape in hand

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