The following is reprinted from Row As One's Newsletter, Reach.

Could Have, Would Have, Should Have...
It is the start of the competitive rowing season and many of us are reflecting on what we "have" done for training over the course of the winter. Others feel wonderful about their off season training and are curious about the impact it will have on their actual rowing. We show up at the boathouse excited, anxious, hopeful and, in many ways, ready to row. It is at this very moment that what we are thinking and saying to ourselves can have the most impact. That "voice" that we all have can either wreak havoc with our thoughts and feelings or send us flying. What is important is to learn how to use it to your advantage!

The onset of the competitive season brings about increased levels of stress. Stress is different from anxiety and not always such a bad thing. It is a reflection of our perception of a change in the physical and/psychological environment. We respond based on how we view the new situation being presented to us. If the new situation feels threatening, we may become tense and anxious or uptight. Our thinking becomes distorted.

A typical example, Sue came off the water in November feeling pretty good about her accomplishments over the season. She vowed to lift faithfully three times each week, increase her cardio fitness and participate in tank sessions. As the winter progressed, her training became sporadic and she began to feel as though she wasn't getting anywhere. Spring arrives and Sue is at the boathouse feeling a bit concerned. It seems as if everyone is closer to their fitness goals. They are all talking about training throughout the winter.

Sue looks around and feels like everyone but her looks HUGE, STRONG and FIT. She knows the coach is disappointed and will probably not boat her where she was last year. She begins doubting her ability to participate and, more importantly, begins chastising herself for what she should "have"done. Sue's perception of the situation is quite distorted and she does not have a great row.

We have all been through this type of thinking in one situation or another. We can, however, learn how to respond more effectively. Change occurs when we become aware of our attitudes, have good reason to question them, and allow ourselves to reconsider our response. We must tolerate the initial discomfort in an effort to get to the desired goal. We must learn how to work through the fears of failure, judgment, and inadequacy and focus on the dream.

How, you ask? Begin by creating a vision of what or who it is you want to become. If someone were to ask what was this season like for you, what would you say? Write yourself a postcard describing what your season was like, filling in the front with whatever visual interpretation you might have. Put it somewhere where you can see it or read it.

Next, evaluate your past behavior. Let go of the "only's". Be aware of timing of events, other commitments and reactions to other changes in your life. Give yourself credit for all that you do. This is great information to use in developing your strategy for realizing your vision. Make a plan, set clear, realistic goals to mark your progress and recognize your efforts. Use positive self-talk. Finally, focus on possibility. Keep visualizing yourself working hard, become the picture or words on the postcard. Have a great season!