The Gift of Now: Competing with Presence and Purpose

“Yesterday’s the past, tomorrow’s the future, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present.” – Bil Keane

Thought of the Day

What will you do with what you have in front of you right now? Will you be so focused on where you came from—or where you want to go—that you miss the moment? On the competition floor, this is always a battle. You can get so caught up in the match you just had or the tough opponent ahead that you psych yourself out. For Judo Nationals this week, my focus will be to stay in the moment—with the good, the bad, and the ugly of competition. Regardless of the outcome, it will be an opportunity to grow and continue building my skills.

With Nationals approaching, I’ve been in a reflective mood. As a young man, my goal was to represent Team BC at the Canadian Nationals. I trained many days, weeks, and years with the hope of making the BC team. Isn’t it funny how, many years later, I finally get the opportunity to represent the team at Nationals? The goal of my younger self has arrived, and I won’t take the opportunity for granted. There have been many training sessions, obstacles, and setbacks along the way—but I bet 20-year-old me would crack a smile at where we’ve landed.

The easy thing for me to do right now is to picture myself on the podium with a cheering crowd, or get too hyped up for the upcoming matches and opponents. That’s been my downfall too many times—counting my chickens before they hatch. Just like my 20-year-old self couldn’t see this moment coming, I need to stay open-minded and adaptable when the competition begins. It’s hard, but if you keep your eye only on the goal and ignore the road you’re on, it can lead to disastrous results. Stay focused on the beauty of the journey and what exists right now.

Whether it’s on the competition floor or in life, the present moment is a real gift. It may be hard, frustrating, or a growth opportunity—but it’s all you have. Don’t let yourself get so distracted by the past or future that you miss what’s right in front of you.

Tuesday

1.    

  2 1. 20 DB Box Step overs 20/24” 35/50#

40 GHD Sit ups

60 Cal Echo Bike

40 GHD Sit ups

20 DB Box Step overs

2.      2.10-8-6-4-2

Cleans 155/225#

Chest to wall HSPU

3.      3.5 km run

4.     4. OHS

5-5-5-5-5