Mastering Your Mindset: Lessons from an Ironman

When aiming to achieve a new (or challenging) goal, don’t overlook the importance of developing your mindset. Whether you dream of running a 5k, building more strength, or writing a book, your goals are more within your reach if you pay attention to your mindset.

For years I dreamt of completing a full Ironman race, which includes swimming 2.5 miles, cycling 112 miles and then running 26.2 miles. But I convinced myself this was going to remain a dream, and I heard a little voice in my head that kept telling me “there is no way I could ever do that”. Our cells hear what our brain thinks. I was convincing myself to give up on this dream before I even started! And then one day my mind gently shifted and thought “what if”…. This was scary terrain, but I began imaging the possibility of completing such a challenging race over and over again. And guess what happened? I became more comfortable thinking I could and should try.

Slowly, my body and brain began to embrace the challenge in a new way. The first step entailed registering for a race, which made it real. For the next year I worked hard to prepare my body for the physical challenges required. But I learned I also needed to train my mind. Every day I took time to work on my mindset to build my belief system. So much of our success and growth comes when we believe we can do something.

Below are steps you can take to get closer to having your hopes and goals come to fruition.

Visualization: Much has been written about the role that visualization plays in the success of athletes, performers, and anyone who has a big goal they want to nail. But this tool doesn’t apply just to high profile athletes, it is just as helpful for us every day people when we have an important goal that matters to us. I have found this to be true in my own life. Whatever goal you wish to conquer, take time every day to visualize yourself succeeding. Imagine one small step at a time. If you want to complete a 5k race, start by visualizing yourself adopting a regular running routine. Maybe you start with a 1 mile walk/run. Every foot forward is progress. You can regularly visualize race day, the crowds, the weather, what you are wearing, and the thrill you will feel when crossing the finish line.

Belief: Another important mindset tool is believing that you can (and will) accomplish your goal. No one else needs to hear the conversation in your head, but it can be very powerful to remind yourself of this every morning. I remember telling myself “I can and I will”. Taking it a step further, it is also important for you to believe that you deserve to see this dream/goal come true.

Mantra: Having a mantra or phrase that resonates with you can help you prepare for your goal before and during challenging moments. There are thousands out there, or you can create your own. One I used frequently was “I can do hard things”. Find what works for you.

Journal: Writing down your thoughts, fears, hopes and feelings about the journey you are on is another valuable tool for attaining your goal. Maybe you are motivated by tracking your progress, capturing quotes or sharing your adventure with others on social media.

If you’ve been putting off trying something little or big, new or scary, I invite you to step outside of your comfort zone. Imagine and know that if you believe you can, you can.