Makings of an Iron-mom (Part I.5)

  

 Transitions           Read Part I Here!

Those involved in the world of Triathlon know that a well-planned and executed transition is key to a solid race and a faster time. The way we prepare for and handle life's transitions is key to building solid character and finding balance faster.   

Let me tell you about the craziest, most excruciating, unpredictable, exhausting workout of my life and how I survived. The first 8 hours were kind of exhilarating. Rolling hills - moments of intense focus, followed by a return to a calm rhythm. A clear vision lay before me. I could see the next climb ahead and get motivated for the upcoming drive. Gradually, the hills became steeper and more difficult. I was starting to feel the burn. Not just the metaphorical burn, it was a real burn... in muscles I previously didn't even know existed! Sometimes I forgot to breathe, so I had to talk myself into it. I was drenched - not in rain but in sweat, and a few tears. A shear test of my will-power and concentration were on display. All the while, my mind fixed on the prize. I had to finish now - there was no turning back. Suddenly that vision of what to expect vanished. Standing before me was the steepest, most jagged peak I had ever seen and there was no way to tell just how far or how difficult the final push would be. Beyond exhausted, I gave it my all, though there was nothing left. I honestly thought I might pass-out, but stopping was not an option - no breaks, no breathers. Prayers were uttered silently, cheers from the "crowd" encouraged, and thank goodness for the Lord of the Rings soundtrack! It was now everything on the line. It was "buckle up/can't stop this ride/how am I still alive?!" intensity.  I gutted through it those final 2 hours like a champ and finished strong to claim my reward: the most beautiful newborn baby boy, wrapped in my arms.

10 hours of natural childbirth. Talk about a transition. Why did I choose this for myself? I would like to tell you that it was all for the baby's health, or for a smoother recovery, or for the joy of the wholesome experience, or some respectable motive. Truth be told, the answer is rooted in the fact that I am a competitive-to-the-core, proud woman who has to prove she can do anything. I did it simply to say that I could handle it. The nurse told me after, "Wow, I don't know if I've ever seen someone in such control for the entire delivery!". I wanted to laugh...sure fooled her. So was it worth it? Of course! Anything is worth it to bring my child into the world. But will I do it that way again? Not likely.

The method of labor and delivery is irrelevant, everyone has the way that works or is necessary for them - the lesson that matters is this: I had a method and a purpose, and I stuck to it. When you come to the crossroads in life, focus on your purpose and use that as your guide for whatever your personal transition may be. In triathlon, it doesn't necessarily matter if you put on your helmet or your sunglasses first. What matters is that you have a systematic approach to your purpose of changing, refueling, and continuing on efficiently. 

I'm not going to tell you how to deal with your life, that is your decision, but that's the kicker - you have to actually make a decision about what your own methods will be in order to fully capitalize on these transitions. It is important to decide in advance how to handle even the unexpected events that almost always arise. It's like emergency preparedness for the variables of life - work, school, family, health, etc. Most of the time, for life changes, my "system" involves a whole lot of prayer, gaining more knowledge (reading), goal-setting, and a solid dose of faith (action). The more I practice, the better I get at it, and the quicker I can move on to the next "event" instead of being stuck in limbo. Though we may be tempted, the "whoa is me" mentality only digs the hole deeper, making it nearly impossible to see out of the mud and realize the opportunities the situation brings.

Worth everything and then some.

There is also such a thing as transitioning too quickly. Right now you're probably thinking, Wait I thought you just said the whole point is to be fast? Well, efficiency is more the key. There are some parts of the process that simply cannot be overlooked or cut short. A friend of mine once told me, "There is a difference between wasting time and taking the time for the things that need the taking of time for."  For me in a triathlon, that is my fruit snacks :) - I have to have my fruit snacks. Easy to chew, quick energy boost, morale boost, and yummy! I always have a bag open and ready to pop in right after the swim. As an individual and especially as a mother, it's communication with God. I have to have it or I'm lost (and trust me I have been lost before). Some things can't come later. If I forget my helmet, I'm disqualified. If I don't get enough fluids, I may pay for it later on. Same with this journey through life. Skipping steps can be detrimental. 

Furthermore, my latest transition of childbirth has taught me that limits mean nothing - thresholds are breakable, strength (in all forms) can and will stretch beyond boundaries - especially for your children and those you love most. When you stop placing limits on your goals, that is when you will see yourself soar, and others around you will be inspired to do the same. Think about that thing you've "been meaning to do" - consider that dream you think is just out of reach. Why not you? Is it that you can't do it, or that you won't do it? Let that marinate for a bit.

Many people see transitions in life as a nice way of saying "chaos-creators" or "madness-makers". I believe they can be transformed into "opportunity-openers" and "destiny-designers". I just hope my next transition like this goes a little bit faster than 10 hours. :)