If you are reading this blog, then there is a good chance you are someone you likes to keep improving and strive for better and better performances. While stress can be a strong motivator for many people to perform better, it can also break you down.
Recently, I witnessed this first hand on the way to Western China’s Gansu province for a triathlon. With no direct flights from Shanghai and by waiting too long to book my flight, I took a first class flight on both legs of the flight. It turned out to be a great investment. I was well looked after, rested, had good leg room and avoided the pinched nerves I got on the 10 hour ride to my previous race. Also, the gap between my second flight was only 30 minutes. Also with the extra luggage allowance my big bike bag and other equipment went through without excess charges. In short, I couldn’t have travelled in a more stress-free fashion.
In contrast, my team-mates had a three hour wait-over in Xian, and even then didn’t reach the final destination. So they had a three hour bus ride the next day. All this involved humping massive boxes and bags on-and-off planes and buses. When they arrived at the race course, five people had food poisoning and the rest were suffering. The next day, two didn’t finish the race, another rode an extra lap on the bike and a third cramped up on the run. How much did the journey contribute to these performances?
When the pressure is on, the heat is up and you are tired, it is difficult to find a clear head. Being stressed out and emotional before the race doesn’t help. In my first Ironman, I didn’t check my equipment into the transition area at the right time and ended up spending 20 minutes in 40C heat looking for my sneakers, which were in the wrong place. In the end, my wife helped out to locate them but the amount of stress and energy spend was really high.
Looks for ways you can reduce your stress ahead of key performances - whether a race, a key business presentation or a meeting with the in-laws! Pamper yourself. Travel first class. Have a massage. Hire a limousine. Enjoy a little luxury and the better service that typically goes along with luxury services. You will feel so much better. Enjoy the performance!