So how is a wedding like a triathlon?
I’m mentioned this phrase to a couple of folks in the private athlete group. It’s top of mind after reflecting on a recent wedding in my own family. I think it’s really applicable to how we approach events and having an active healthy lifestyle
Weddings: There is usually so much long term build up to a wedding – much like a major triathlon event goal – lots of intricate parts that need to come together – specific, maybe bizarre, clothing for the day, numerous timings or schedules to hit, event food and drink, the celebrations, lots of people, venue hosts, rehearsals, officials, registration!
This can add up to some huge pressure on the day. Much of what happens can be outside of your direct control. There are nerves, hearts are racing, the emotions can be very heightened, it can feel like all or nothing at times. Often something will go wrong – it’ll make a great story afterwards but how about how it feels during the day? Will it derail the event and all the preparations or will you adapt and make it a success?
One piece of reflection I often hear about both “A” race events and weddings is how quickly everything seemed to happen. Almost like it just flew past and then it was finished. Often too quickly and once finished how people wish they could rewind and replay the event and take in more of the experience.
Can you take a pause at your next big event, think how much has come together for this moment and absorb the sensations and the emotions?
However, the second thought is actually, as important a wedding is, it’s a celebration of marriage. It’s the marriage itself that is the more special. A strong healthy marriage, one that is a joy for those involved, always trumps the short-term of a wedding event.
Maybe similarly we can compare the ongoing, day in, day out of a marriage to the lifestyle of healthy joyous triathlon activity. Consistently putting in the effort, being present and focusing on the quality of the experience. Working the small things. Not taking the health for granted. Recognising milestones. Exercising patience and knowing things will not always go as expected. Adapting to challenges. Being honest. Celebrating especially with others.
So as events start to come around more quickly and as the season gets underway, a reminder and an ask for you to reflect. Much like a wedding is a celebration of a marriage, let the events be a celebration of the lifestyle you lead. Maybe not everything will go 100% in the event, let it wash over you and embrace the rest of the celebration. Focus on the small things in the lifestyle and the consistency and don’t forget to take those pauses to notice the joy in the relationship.
And enjoy the cake in both!