You Need A Mantra
A mantra can be used for a multitude of purposes, like meditation, building self confidence and breaking negative thought patterns.
This concept originates from Hindu or Buddhist meditation practices. Mantras are an expression, phrase or idea that is repeated, eventually without thinking about it. To be effective, your mantra needs to be connected to something important to you. By repeating this thought or phrase, it gains power and energy. Self-belief is a powerful tool and your mantra or mantras will help to develop your sense of strength, empowerment and self.
For training and racing, mantras can also be a helpful tool to move focus away from pain or discomfort whilst creating a positive mindset. With practice, instead of focusing on how much your legs are burning as you climb a tough hill, you shift to repeating your mantra.
I've used several mantras over the years, but right now, mine is "Remember who you are". Thats a deeply personal mantra. Its my reminder that I was once a very serious competitor in my sport and that this time is coming again. All of the fire, the drive and the mindset that I need now are still inside of me. - Nicky
Start by finding a mantra that resonates with you. It should be short, personal and positive. Here are some examples:
Create a life you can be proud of
You are strong enough to take on anything
Don’t give up. Great things take time.
I am enough
You have survived your worst days, you can survive this
You are strong and you are worthy
Find a mantra that will counteract your own patterns of negative behavior or thoughts. You’re going to use this mantra whenever you find yourself drifting into negative thoughts or an unhelpful mindset. You’ll switch to positive thinking with your mantra. This could be while you’re training, competing or just going about you day to day life. You can use it to center yourself during meditation. You can use it when your family is driving you crazy. In addition to using it in times of stress, you should also start and end your day by repeating it. Before brushing your teeth, look in the mirror and repeat your mantra. This is a powerful tool to build self belief.