Do You Deserve to Be a Winner?

A man who suffers before it is necessary suffers more than is necessary. ~ Seneca

Deserving is an interesting concept. For some it is seen as a right and something positive. Others view it as something negative, experiencing guilt. When you think about deserving what are some of the thoughts you have? Do you deserve to reach your performance goals? Do you deserve success?

Deserving and feeling worthy go hand in hand. They are partners. Many times people are unable to achieve long lasting success because they do not feel they earned the right. Yes! That is right. Deserving something like success can be viewed as a right.

Typically when something is a “right” then rules and restrictions are developed in reference to it. Athletes claim to love their freedom, although most tend to be creatures of habit. Beliefs and rules are created because they are comforting, helping to make sense of the world. You know what to expect.

There are two types of rules. One set of rules is for when you are going to do something. It is based upon allowing or giving permission. For example, at the last quarter of the race you begin your sprint, going full out. Another set of rules is when you will not do something. This is a restriction. You will not allow yourself to celebrate your milestones because you haven’t reached your goal yet.

Having deserving, worthiness and rights connected to negative rules is restrictive. Your perception, beliefs and thoughts all focus on restriction and what you cannot do. This can be extremely stressful because the focus is to avoid breaking a rule.

On the other hand, you have the ability to reframe anything you want. Just because you have always done things a certain way does not mean you cannot change. It is so much easier to move toward a goal or challenge than it is to avoid a problem. This is similar to having an offensive or defensive game plan.

Change is necessary if you are striving toward peak performance. Consider replacing the word “deserving” with “choice.” When you have a choice you become empowered. Restrictions are lifted. Having a choice creates infinite possibilities. The focus is expansive.

When you choose to do something, you become empowered. Limitations, restrictive rules and fears are suddenly eliminated. Choosing your focus and priorities does not necessitate approval from others. Taking responsibility for yourself and your actions is a game changer.

Choice allows you to freely stretch yourself, challenging your abilities. Notice how you begin to set boundaries, caring for your needs. Notice your mindset during practice. Consider the changes which need to occur for you to move up in rankings based upon a healthy, functional dynamic. You determine how to set the tone for your performance goals.
Create boundaries, manage your self care and find opportunities for growth. Your supporters will provide advice. You are the only one who can decide what approach is best for you. Listen to the approach which resonates within you. Choose to expand your focus, find the approach to stretch your current level of performance.

Developing a strong, confident, healthy strategy to your event centers your energy toward peak performance. Imagine how this would change the way you compete during your event. Envision setting clear boundaries to improve your performance.

Take your performance in the direction of your dreams. Decide what you choose to change. Practice the technique of Appreciative Inquiry. This approach is based on positive change, focusing on recognition and appreciation. You focus on what you are doing well, strengths, successes, values and goals. Consider these two main questions: 1) What is going well and 2) What do you want more of? When you explore the options from this perspective, you are focusing on positive change by creating a strengths based approach to improve your performance with confidence.