Hey there, fellow athletes and seekers of truth! It’s Grant here, your friendly neighborhood High-Performance Triathlon Coach with a twist - combining the art of Clinical Hypnotherapy and Strategic Psychotherapy. Today, I’ve got a gem for you. Let's dive deep into what I call 'Athletic Prisons'. But first, if you’re more of a visual learner, check out my video here:
🎥 Grant Giles on Athletic Prisons
The Illusionary Bars of Athletic Prisons
What if I told you that the prison we often feel entrapped within as athletes isn’t made of steel or iron, but of our own thoughts and interpretations? Many of us get caught up in these self-built cages formed from our judgments and misinterpretations of our performances. And guess what? Most of the time, it's not helping us.
Understanding vs. Judgment 🧠
We’ve all been there. That moment when we focus on what we haven’t achieved instead of celebrating what we have. It’s essential to remember that as athletes, we should be investigators, not critics. Instead of passing judgment, we should be searching for clues to enhance our performances.
Sidestepping the Comparison Trap 🚫
Measuring our achievements and setbacks against another athlete's journey is like comparing apples to oranges. Each one of us has a unique path, and it's high time we started respecting it.
Beyond the Physical: The Spiritual Aspect of Athleticism 🌌
Ever felt that deep, almost transcendental moment during an intense workout or race? That’s because athleticism isn’t just a physical experience. It taps into a deeper, spiritual realm, demanding every ounce of our presence.
Presence Over Interpretation 🧘♂️
Staying present in each training session and race allows us to genuinely understand and appreciate our journey. When we label or interpret, we strip away the depth and richness of our experiences. Instead, embrace the moment in its purest form.
The Coach’s Corner 📋
What we, as coaches, genuinely aim to inculcate in our athletes is the value of self-belief and presence. Trusting oneself and remaining anchored in the moment can profoundly change one's athletic trajectory.
A Closing Thought
Always remember, my friends: every training, every race, and every moment provides a golden opportunity to be fully present. In doing so, you’ll begin to see the vast, vibrant tapestry of your athletic journey.
Thanks for hanging with me! Embrace your journey and keep swimming, biking, and running with passion and presence! 🏊♂️🚴♂️🏃♂️
Stay strong, stay present, and see you on the track!
— Grant