The Habit of Excellence

Rinse, Repeat.
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit. Aristotle
Thanks to Coach Bungard for posting this quote on his Facebook wall today. A perfect inspiration of wisdom from a wise Coach, past and present.

Speaking of Present.... many say 90% of success is showing up. Being present in body is only a part of the equation. Presence of mind and soul are essential to the balance of success. Putting your heart in something is great! Your mind has to be there as well. The vacation you are planning is only going to be a true time of renewal if you participate in your own escape!
The body may be on the beach, but if the mind is back in the office, at the club, or practice, you loose the benefit of your physical location. Let yourself surrender to the present moment. Become aware of the space you are in. Be intentional. Be authentic. Allow your real present moment to be experienced fully.

How does this lead a champion to the podium? It removes the obstacles that distract from success. Even if your real present moment is a place you are not comfortable with. That which you resist will persist. The nagging unresolved issue(s) will be there to greet you and insist on your attention if you continue to ignore them. Awareness is the first step. Admitting there is an issue. Action will come as you sort through your options and consult your advisers.

Case in Point. This year's winner of the Tour De France was faulted for "attacking" his rival in a moment when it seemed un-sportsmanlike. He took responsibility for his actions and when he had the opportunity to "make it up" he allowed his rival to take the podium for the day at some great expense to himself. In the end they each where held in high esteem by the the sport and remained close friends. Meanwhile Lance Armstrong was able to rally his team to keep their heads and hearts in the moment and abide by some seemingly unfair rules about uniforms and bring some attention to their cause as well as win the team standing for the 2010 Tour.

If you are not a cycling fan and do not get my analogy to being in the moment, please just trust that the moments life presents you are just that.... Presents. An opportunity, a gift. A chance to act in a way that may reflect wisdom, but more.... shows soul.

How does all this gibberish relate to massage therapy for the sporting athlete? I believe when the body is nagging you to pay attention to small aches or pain it is your opportunity to repond with wisdom and soul. "Take the bull by the horns" and get that issue resolved so nothing can stand in your way. Perhaps there are other issues not related to the tissues and the help of a sports psychologist may be in order. Do what ever it takes to reach the podium if that is where you truly belong. When your heart, mind and soul is in the right place, the body will follow.

And remember: the podium upon which you stand may not have a number 1,2 or 3.
It may be just with in reach of someone who loves you and holds you in highest esteem in their heart.After all, isn't Love and respect greater gifts than thunderous applause and trophies?