Race Week in Your Happy Place

by Sue Aquila

Early in my career as a business owner, vacations were rare. The few that I took involved stressing about the vacation, making the travel plans for the vacation, scrambling to get everything done for the vacation and spending a sleepless night packing to leave at an evil hour the next morning.

I quickly learned this process was not going to work as I spent multiple vacations with some type of illness. Irritating to me and annoying to my family.

It is no coincidence many triathletes end up sick during race week as they juggle the finishing touches on their preps/tapers, meeting work deadlines and family commitments.

Over the years, my race week process has been refined. First, I assume I am well trained and physically ready to go. No questioning preparation or execution at this point. I have my race checklist and I set time in my schedule to pack that does not sacrifice sleep or family time.

Second, I look carefully at my workflow for the race week and then I look at it again two to three weeks out. I prioritize the tasks that must be completed by my departure time. I delegate anything else and I ask my co-workers to not call with any disruptions. The owner is not available.

Third, and the most important part for me, is I make sure that all my personal relationships are positive. I schedule date night, I spend time with my daughter, my family and my friends. Less training prior to a race is really conducive to laughter and love. I find that my happy place is right next to my podium place!

Some other things I have refined through the years.

I have a part-time assistant (google virtual assistant to learn more) that sets my travel plans.
If I have to leave at the crack of dawn, I add another day to my race trip to make up for the lost sleep.
I eat the same foods and follow the same schedule before every race.
Things happen. Before Galveston 70.3 my bike was lost by the airline. This weekend I wasn’t able to have my typical pre-race meal. Roll with the changes like you would when something goes wrong in a race.

Our ability to have a sport we love, stay in fantastic shape and travel to compete in incredible events all over the world is a gift. Take the extra time and care to celebrate your preparations and arrive happy and ready to race. Your happy place will be waiting for you at the finish line.

Sue started her triathlon journey with a 50lb weight loss and continues as a Kona qualifier. As a successful entrepreneur, she believes that, “You can run your business like your training and your training like your business!” As a coach (USAT Certified), she helps athletes to develop success in all areas of their lives: family, health and work. She blogs regularly at fewoman.com. You can find her on Twitter @fewoman.