""WINNING VS. LOSING" - April 28, 2008

Last week I had to run 1700 yards in sprints.  I ran 4 hundreds in 13 sec.  then I got a 2 minute break, then I ran our conditioning test which is 10 half gassers in 16 sec.  Another 2 minute break, then I ran 3 more hundreds in 16 sec.  I made the first four, then I made the first 4 of the gassers.  I missed the fifth one and then I missed 3 more of the last five.  I only missed 1 of the last three hundreds.  I had a hard leg workout day; the day before the running.  My legs were hurting and were very tired.  I was pretty disappointed by not making all of them.  I just told myself that if I was fresh I would have made it.  Then I realized I was using a losers mentallity.  Making excuses for not getting the job done.  This week I had to run 1800 yards because I have gone up a hundred every week.  My running was 4 hundreds like last time, then the conditioning test like last time, but at the end I had 5 forties and 10 twenties.  The whole
 day I was nervous about running.  When I got out there and warmed up, I knew what I had to do.  I ran the first 4 hundreds made the time, then I started the gassers.  I just told myself that I could do it.  I wasn't going to lose mentally like I did last week.  I ran the first 5 in 14 secs.  I knew I was getting a little tired, but I told myself that when the game is on the line I want to be the one making the play.  I could see myself making a big time play to win the game.  I pushed it harder and harder.  I made all of the gassers in 14 sec., but 1.  I made it in 15 sec. and I only had to run them in 16 sec.  Then turned around and ran the forties in 5 sec.  Then I ran the twenties.  I was finally finished, and I was proud that I didn't lose mentally.  As I sat there it came to me that most people lose a game before it is over.  Most people don't know how to take it to the next level and to push yourself.  :Losing is not acceptable,
 but worse then that is having a losers mentallity.  I have pushed myself through pain and injuries and I know that it's mental.  I take pride in doing my job at a high level.  The fans know when I am on the field I am going to do my best to make plays.  In a team game you don't always get to chose if you win or lose, but you do have the choice of how you approach and handle the game.  What kind of Mentallity are you going to have?  My Thoughts, Your Time, Thanks for Reading. 

Nik L.