Have more than one goal.
Obviously, you train to win, but unfortunately not everyone can place
first. Don’t let winning be your only motivation. After all is said and
done, your best memory isn’t going to be the trophy on your mantle, but the
pictures and feedback that you get after the show. Knowing that you gave it
your all, stepped on stage, and had your family and friends cheering you on,
will prove to be far more rewarding.
Appreciate the people who support you.
Far too many times, I have taken for granted the friends that aren’t into
fitness that still want to hang out with me regardless of the fact that I
need to drink a protein shake before we go into the mall or eat a pre-packed
meal in the middle of a movie. Or the times that my mom has gone out of her
way to make sure that my chicken was cooked when I worked late, or had to
drive an hour back from choreography. These are the people that despite the
‘oddities’ of the sport are behind your and your aspirations 100%. Remember
and appreciate them, you need them.
Make Friends.
It is a rarity to find such wonderful people who have the same interests
(and eating habits) that you do. Be sure to socialize within the sport. You
will be surprised at how humble and caring all of these beautiful women are.
You are sure to learn something new from almost everyone you meet. Over the
last year I have met some of the most wonderful people. And I am lucky
enough to be able to consider most of them great friends. I have never had
so many people concerned about me, and wanting to help and support me. It is
such a wonderful feeling to know that after the competitions are done, that
I will continue to have such an amazing group of people in my life. (Thank
you to all of you… you know who you are.)
It’s not just about the destination…
Remember, not only are you are creating a new body, but you are most
likely on a path to self -discovery. Whether you realize it or not, you will
learn a lot about yourself. What your ‘limits’ are, just how far you can
push your body and all that you are capable of on not only a physical level,
but a mental level as well. Whether it’s learning new strength moves, how to
bead a suit, learning what carb/protein ratio works best for you, or just
what time of day you are physically incapable of doing anything else. Relish
in all that you are accomplishing and learning along the way. These will be
the things that will last far beyond your competitive years. While training
and dieting, you tend to wish the time away, hoping for the contest day to
come so that ‘this’ will be over. Enjoy the journey… isn’t that what it’s
all about? Realize all that you put into it… and be proud of your day to day
achievements.
Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy….
When all is said and done… live it up! Take a break from training, go out
to eat and enjoy your food, friends, and family. It is easy to forget about
the things that really matter when you are wrapped up in contest
preparation. Not worrying about getting to the gym while your mom is talking
to you… leaving someone’s birthday party early so you can get home and cook
your meals for the next day… you know what I am saying. So go have that huge
plate of nachos, a margarita, stay out late dancing… eat a slice of that
birthday cake. Just enjoy!
