Whenever something bad happens, I always try to see the bright side of the situation. I know this is such cliché, but I think that even though some things may seem terrible at first glance, if you really look at the bigger picture, there is always something positive to take from the experience. I was thinking about this yesterday after having yet another “just ok” track meet. My event is pole vault, and so far this season has been comprised of a series of meets where I jumped a reasonable height, but nothing to be too excited about. Yesterday was no different.
As I felt myself knocking the bar off on my third and final attempt at eleven feet, I was disappointed. I had stepped onto the track that morning expecting to at least match my personal record. I had had good practices all week, and the weather that day was the perfect mixture of warmth from the sun and a light breeze to my back. After only clearing 10’6”, it seemed like everything I had done that week had been useless. After talking to my parents and trying to explain what happened, however, I realized that I had had a good day after all. Even though I didn’t clear the height that I wanted, did have one victory which made me feel ten times better. At this particular meet, I ran fast enough and with enough confidence so that I should have been using a heavier pole than the one I had been jumping on. A heavier pole would have allowed me to go higher and it means that my technique is improving. It wasn’t the best timing to realize that I needed a bigger pole during competition, but that just means that I’ll have more time to practice.
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I think it is really true about the bright side thing, and almost everyone was told to be thought positively since young. The hard part is to take the action. Sometimes, when things have gone so bad, we are already so pissed and exhausted. At that time, it is really not easy to remember to smile. I always got depressed when there is so much work to finish up; it is hard for me to focus. But when I clear my mind and begin one by one, it works out well.
ReplyDeleteLu Liu
I think it's great that you were able to take what you did at your pole vaulting competition, and reframe it in a positive light. Being a gymnast, I know how difficult it is to let go of what has already happened and look toward improving in the meets that follow. It shows the mindset of a champion to turn disappointment into focus and determination for the future. I really like your concept of seeing the bright side of situations, it is so true. The ability to feel positive about your experiences, knowing that there is always a glimmer of success even if at first it seems hidden, is a wonderful quality to possess. You did a great job tying in your personal experience with the main theme of this piece. I hope you soar high to a personal best in your upcoming track meets!
ReplyDeleteErika