The Mental Aspect of Racing

We all know alot of adversity can happen race day and unless you are mentally prepared, you are going to have a long, lonely, and somewhat depressing day out there. Obviously the longer the distance, the more reason to be not only physically but mentally prepared. I weigh it in as the exact same level of importance. After all, we are fueled and driven by our thoughts, and that is something that you CAN CONTROL.
No Matter what may happen out there if you have a positive outlook on the situation the Ironman Experience is going to be a great one. An experience that can bring you closer to God, where you get to feel his presence through the sun shining down on your face, the suffering that you put your body through(" Feels like death, but this is living "), and through the love of all those out on the course racing, volunteering and supporting you along the way.

Below i thought i would share some of the scripture, affirmations, and songs that i focus on race day. I keep them in my mind, say them out loud, and sing. Not only when adversity comes but also when i feel strong and in control. Drawing on these words make the racing experience just that more meaningful and enjoyable. There is never a bad day when you get to do what you love, but doing it with a happy heart just heightens the experience that much more.

My favorite song to sing and what i draw on the most :

Hillson - Forever Reign ( Link to hear song - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoKdQOY2NWI )

You are good, You are good When there's nothing good in me
You are love, You are love On display for all to see
You are light, You are light, When the darkness closes in
You are hope, You are hope, You have covered all my sin
You are peace, You are peace, When my fear is crippling
You are true, You are true, Even in my wandering
You are joy, You are joy, You're the reason that I sing
You are life, You are life,In You death has lost its sting
Oh, I'm running to Your arms,I'm running to Your arms
The riches of Your love, Will always be enough
Nothing compares to Your embrace, Light of the world forever reign
You are more, You are more, Than my words will ever say
You are Lord, You are Lord, All creation will proclaim
You are here, You are here, In Your presence I'm made whole
You are God, You are God,Of all else I'm letting go
Oh, I'm running to Your arms,I'm running to Your arms
The riches of Your love, Will always be enough
Nothing compares to Your embrace, Light of the world forever reign

Encouraging Scripture :
Psalm 105:4 - Look to the Lord for His Strength, Seek His face always

Isiah 40:31 - But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength
They will soar on wings like eagles
They will run and not grow weary
They will walk and not be faint

Colossian 3:23-24 -
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord and not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving

Romans 5:3
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Galations 6:9
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

1 Timothy 4:8
For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

Philippians 2:3
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.

Matthew 17:20
I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. "

2 Timothy 1:7
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline

1 John 3:1
My grace is sufficient for you, My power is made perfect in your weakness.

Psalm 29:11
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace


My race day Affirmations :

1. Race to Glorify God and love others in the process
2. Embrace the experience, make the most of it.
3. No Regrets
4. I AM mentally and physically strong, everyone else is hurting and doubting more than i am.
5. GOD GAVE ME THIS TALENT NOW USE IT.
6. GOD LOVES ME.

Good luck to all those racing. Its never a bad day when you get to do what you love !