Establishing A Pre-Swimming Ritual

Before plunging into the pool, it is important to pause for a while and set your intention. This will be my pre-swimming ritual.

Rituals are potent, and it will therefore do you good to establish one. In my experience, rituals can prepare the mind and body when facing challenges.

When done properly and intentionally, rituals — however small they may be — place you in a certain state of mind from which strength and determination can flow.

They can make you brave, but also kind to yourself. They help you let go of the things you cannot control.

So, let me pause for a while…

Remind yourself to swim joyfully. Whatever happens, enjoy every moment of it. Finding happiness in swimming is the main objective. Success is only secondary. When you truly enjoy what you are doing, success will often follow.

Focus on what you can control. Do not allow things outside your control to distract you. You cannot control the outcome — you can only do your very best. So do not get discouraged when your swimming session does not go as expected. Showing up, doing your best, and actually enjoying your time in the water is already a massive success.

Swim with a grateful heart. You are very lucky. Finding something you are passionate about is a gift. Swimming is a worthwhile pursuit that fulfils you. There are many people out there who are unable to find that one thing that truly excites them.

Also, you are blessed with a good and comfortable life. Because you do not need to worry about food or shelter above your head, you have the luxury of pursuing something that is not necessary for survival, but necessary for joy.

Do not care too much. You are not training for the Olympic Games. Your life and career do not depend on swimming. Remember: this is for fun. There is no need to be so fanatic about it. Take a deep breath, say, “I don’t care,” and then start swimming.