How to Manage Your "What Ifs?" and Staying in the HERE AND NOW

This post not only applies to athletes but each and every one of us out there! We all think about the future and have the thought of "what if it doesn't work out???" or "what if this or that happens???" Some of us, more than others, may constantly find themselves worrying about the future. Today we are going to join in on the journey of being in the HERE AND NOW (me included because I constantly have trouble with this!). We will strive to lessen our worries and anxieties about what lies ahead and focus on what we can control today. Here are some tips to help us on our journey:

1. Focus on the things YOU CAN CONTROL: Imagine drawing a circle and in that circle you have your name. Think of all the things that are within your control (dedication, thoughts/actions, motivation) and write them in that circle. Next, draw a bigger circle around your circle and fill that circle with all of the things you can't control (other people's behaviors, deadlines). Once we can visualize our senses of control then it becomes more realistic and we can be reminded of what we have the power to do.

2. Set REALISTIC goals: Make a list of goals that you want to achieve (include the day, month, or year in which you want to achieve the goal and include objectives that you will work on in order to meet your goal). Be honest with yourself as well as confident. Only make goals that you believe you will achieve. For example, you want to exercise more each week. If you only go to the gym once or twice a month, make a goal of going to the gym once or twice a week rather than a goal of going every day. BE REALISTIC

3. ORGANIZE your Life: Organization is KEY to being successful in all that you do. Get a planner, get a journal, WRITE DOWN your thoughts. Each month fill out your calendar in your planner and/or create your own poster calendar and become aware of your expectations for that month. What do you want to accomplish? Refer back to your goals and make sure your days are filled with objectives that will help you reach your goals.

4. STOP AND TAKE A DEEP BREATH. Yes, meditation is wonderful and I will continue to push and push everyone to make it a part of their daily routine. However, for those that simply feel like it is not for them, I ask that you AT LEAST consider taking a few deep breaths each day. You will be surprised by how that deep breath will calm you and bring back your focus to the HERE AND NOW.

"So do not worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will take care of itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."