Sometimes you just have to go for it!

​Many people will say not to compete at a national show until you are “ready”

I understand the sentiment. Even I didn’t step on a national stage the first time I qualified because I definitely wasn’t in a place to consider it!! I needed more experience & to learn the value of patience in this sport

Other athletes show up with multiple overall wins, national show experience, & the look of a pro…& then there’s you (or me)

Why take a shot against them? Won’t that destroy your confidence? Are you really “ready”?

When I stepped on the national stage for the 1st time in December, I did it to prove to myself I was ready to level up

It was a mental thing. I wanted to step on that stage to show myself that my goals are important & achievable

My coach even said to me, at some point I’m going to have to do this & put myself where I want to be. He encouraged me to step up

I’m glad I did

It was an incredible experience & allowed me to get in front of Sandy who I had been trying to get in front of all year but with cancellations it wasn’t happening!

This show really inspired me. (Definitely did not break me or make me question my abilities as a competitor despite my low placing!) I was proud of myself for my execution & follow through to take on a new level!

I saw what was possible & ever since then I’ve felt a shift in my thought process

I look at myself as a national level competitor

This mental shift has influenced the way I train, eat, & look at the sport!

I have a high amount of respect for all competitors & I know that there’s a reason they say “only the best go pro”

I’ve always done what it takes to uplevel. Part of that process for me was stepping on the national stage. I may not have been the most competitive, or “ready” to some, but it helped me evaluate myself with a more intense eye & to focus even MORE on growth I need!

I have done well at a regional level & I want to do better

Now, I believe more so than ever that next year, I will. Because of the work I’ve been putting in & will continue to do. I am always learning

It’s not a matter of rushing to the result either, I am content with mastering this

Sometimes you just have to go for it!