I liked my plan.
I still like my plan.
My plan for this year was to enjoy training and become faster at the half marathon and the half iron. Then, look at 2010 or 2011 for my next IM.
I realize that I am lucky to have so many people supporting me in my Ironman adventures.
Well....
Why give up something that I am really enjoying for something that will take me off the path that I set for myself?
I don't feel like I HAVE to do Ironman. I want to do Ironman. I will do another and another and another....in the future. My long term goals haven't changed. Why would I change my short term goals if they are the stepping stones to my longer term goals?
The most important factor in making my decision: I don't feel like I have anything to prove.
Maybe that's the difference. Maybe if I felt like I have something to prove, maybe I'd be chomping at the bit.
I think there's another aspect that I can't quite put my finger on, but it sorta goes like this.
I am happier and healthier than I have ever been. I have a completely different attitude toward training than I have ever had in the past. My eating has improved a ton. I'm sleeping well.
I think I need a year or so to work my new outlook into my training. Right now, if I trained for Ironman, given the training hours, personal committment, family committment, I don't think I could maintain my lifestyle.
Next year is a different story.
And wow.
Just wait.
Because NEXT year when I do compete at Redman, I am going to be in my most race ready shape ever.
