Sadly I've had more than one family member call me "obsessed" when it comes to my training routine. One felt the need to share this thought in a post on my FB page. Uhhh, thank you for that! The strange thing is that these family members are from my husbands side of the family and they don't partake in any type of sport or physical activity.
I try to ignore it and "let it go", but sometimes it's really difficult to turn the other cheek. I'm 46 years old and I can think for myself. My training schedule infringes on no one. I start my workout after my daughter has left for school and I'm home, ready to bake chocolate chip cookies for her when she comes steps off the bus.
My husband Tom is an avid runner as well,training for his first marathon (the Marine Corp Marathon in October). He has worked with me to improve my running and biking. And running races is something we enjoy doing together as a couple.
Sometimes I wonder if people feel a sense of jealousy because Tom and I enjoy running and competing together. I guess when someone is in a dark place in their own life, it's easier to criticize and hurt someone else rather than fix their own problems. Who knows? I just know I can't worry about it anymore.
I decided it was a good idea to keep my triathlon training completely off FB and I haven't told anyone (with the exception of my husband, brother and niece) about my upcoming triathlon at Randolph Lake. My mother in law is still warming up to the triathlon idea and I know she means well. The other day she asked me if I was "really sure" I wanted to do this? Its sweet of her to worry about me.
Then another strange thing happened recently. A couple of weeks ago, a friend invited me to go on a run with him. I mentioned that I couldn't go because I had a brick workout scheduled. Not long after that conversation, this friend started posting on FB that he was swimming, biking and running. He was always a runner, but the swimming and biking were a new addition. Soon after, he posted on FB that he made up his own triathlon one day and completed his first tri.
I had always considered this person to be a good friend of mine, so I wasn't exactly sure what to think. I mean is he trying to make fun of me, or is there some deep seeded jealousy because I'm training for a triathlon? I don't even know if the word "jealousy" is correct, but I'm very confused by it and was tempted to confront it. Then Practical Tom talked me down and told me to let it go. He thinks its a combination of insecurity and a lack of self confidence. So I let it go.
In any event, I am becoming MUCH better at deflecting negativity. I do everything possible to surround myself with successful triathletes who know and understand where I've come from and where I'm going. It's THEIR opinion that I value and respect greatly!
And as far as FB is concerned? I don't post anything regarding my upcoming plans, races or workouts. For all Facebook knows, I could have spent the entire day sitting on my couch watching soap operas and eating a bag of Doritos. And in case your wondering, NO I DON'T DO THAT, but I do love Doritos. Maybe someday I will do that, just to see what it's like.
So carry on my wayward sons (and daughters). The triathlete has many obstacles to overcome and disciplines to master. And as far as deflecting negativity goes...that is one discipline I promise to master!
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