When writing my book, I initially intended it for educators and administrators. The mental workouts were geared to assist in enduring the endurance sport of the academic school year. However, when reading some Amazon reviews, two struck me allowing the lightbulb to illuminate.
"This book is a life changer in any thing you do— not just for teachers. It makes you believe in yourself and all of your potential. It creates an uplifting buzz to go for it — whatever your “it” is."--Greg C.
"This book is not just for teachers. It’s for everyone!"--Yvonne C.
So, while I still consult and work with adults regarding the Teach4Endurance lifestyle, I've began incorporating "Endurance" Days into my classroom. Each week my students take part in one of the book's nearly 100 workouts.
Why? DO NOT TRY TO DRIVE THE CAR UNTIL YOU'VE CHECKED UNDER THE HOOD!
If you're mentally not in a good space (whether adult or child), you're not going to achieve anything at a high capacity. No amount of technology or lesson plans will mend a struggling spirit. Hence . . . classroom "Endurance Days" and its wall was born! This wall exists as a daily reminder of how we can strengthen our mind and spirt. It also reminds us that none of us has it all figured out; thereby, none of us are truly alone in our struggles.
Workout 6: Take Inventory
Utilizing a graphic organizer (in my book), reflect on any areas in your life that feel somewhat off balance (i.e. what could be going far better?).
Cliff Notes: The key for a successful open water swim is all about balance both literally and figuratively. One must keep an optimal swimming stroke and form to save much needed energy. Moreover, one cannot let any mental avalanches to enter the fray. Being off balance mentally in the open water is just as dangerous as being physically off kilter.
Chapter Intro: Let’s put things in perspective. We are humans, and we do indeed sink! However, in triathlons, whether an IRONMAN® race or any other distance event, the swim is the initial discipline you must conquer. When I first started training, I could only swim two 25-yard lengths before having to stop. From the time I was a little guppy, my sporting world consisted of football and baseball, not the avoidance of drowning. I had to teach myself to swim if I was going to survive anything over the distance of one lap around the kiddie pool.