The tendency to compare ourselves to others is very common. Swimming athletes are not immune from negative comparisons with other athletes. If your child compares themselves in a negative way could you get them to read and consider the points below: · Comparisons are always unfair. We typically compare the worst we know of ourselves to the best we presume about others. · Comparisons rob us of precious time. We each get 86,400 seconds each day. And using even one to compare yourself or your accomplishments to another is one second too many. · You are too unique to compare fairly. Athletes come in all shapes and sizes and develop at different rates. Your gifts and talents and successes and contributions and value are entirely unique to you and your purpose in this world. They can never be properly compared to anyone else. · You have nothing to gain, but much to lose. For example: your pride, your dignity, your drive, and your passion. · There is no end to the possible number of comparisons. The habit can never be overcome by attaining success. There will also be something—or someone—else to focus on. · Comparison puts focus on the wrong person. You can control one life—yours. But when we constantly compare ourselves to others, we waste precious energy focusing on other peoples’ lives rather than our own. · Comparisons often result in resentment. Resentment towards others and towards ourselves. · Comparisons deprive us of joy. They add no value, meaning, or fulfillment to our lives. They only distract from it. If you need to compare, compare with yourself. We ought to strive to be the best possible versions of ourselves—not only for our own selves, but for the benefit and contribution we can offer to others. Work hard and learn to celebrate the little advancements you are making without comparing them to others. With so many negative effects inherent in comparison, it is a shame we ever take part in it. But the struggle is real for most of us. Fortunately, it does not need to be. And the freedom found in comparing less is entirely worth the effort. If others do well in a race, rather than compare yourself with them, ask what can you learn from their attitude, work ethic, and technique to help you improve? regards Mark McCarthy President Tea Tree Gully Amateur Swimming Club Inc
Posted on: Mon, 13 Oct 2014 03:01:55 +0000
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