How to Get Motivated to Go to Swim Practice

It’s not just an athlete’s performance in the pool that makes them unique, but also the dedication, hard work and sacrifice they put in to reach and maintain that status. While some swimmer’s motivation never sinks, others have a hard time staying afloat.

The Olympic motto is ‘Citius, Altius, Fortius’– meaning ‘Faster, Higher, Stronger’.  Although many athletes abide by this motto when training, – pushing themselves to be faster, reach higher and be stronger- the overwhelming pressure can sometimes be overbearing for anyone.

So how can you increase your motivation when faced with a dose of “I don’t want to train now”? The answer is simple and very similar to how you grow your skills for a competition- by practicing. Motivation is like a muscle. You need to practice strengthening it through consistent behaviors and habits.  Here are 5 steps to help keep you on track to your path to success.

1.     Set Small Goals for Big Wins  

A typical pattern observed in top athletes when training is that they set actionable, specific goals. It is great to have big dreams and big goals, but first, start small. The smaller the goal, the quicker it can be achieved. With smaller goals, the end is always in sight, and the payoff comes quicker. These small wins can often motivate you while you are in the process of achieving a bigger goal. They serve as minor milestones on the way to achieving your biggest dreams.

2.     Develop a Personal Mantra

Mantras don’t just apply to yogis. In fact, a personal mantra is a verbal affirmation that can help anyone stay motivated, helping reinforce a positive mindset. Mantras are typically affirmative phrases or statements that you can use to provide motivation and encouragement when you need to focus your mind on achieving a goal.

3.     Create Your Own Routine and Rituals

It is important to develop daily rituals that will keep you inspired and on track. A routine or procedure can often help athletes develop a sense of control when they feel they have none. In setting up a routine to follow, you can focus solely on executing during a competition or practice. This familiar ritual or routine performed

4.     Slow Things Down

Slowing down may be the best way to speed up when feeling unmotivated. Taking time to collect your thoughts can help you reconvene with your original goals or objectives. When things get overthought, our tendency can be to rush and panic; but in stopping, we re-evaluate the things that work for us.

5.     Stay Optimistic

While negative moods tend to hinder performance, it is well known that a positive outlook can help any athlete bounce back from defeat. When faced with criticism or consistent losses, view it as a motivator to improve. Looking at failure in a positive light will help you learn, grow and develop as an athlete and a person.

Now that you know how to stay motivated check out our SwimMirrors which are excellent tools to help you take your swimming to the next level!

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