WHAT IF YOUR CLIMBING GOAL CHANGES?
So here's a gentle reminder: it is absolutely okay if your goal changes. During uncertain times like the current ones, we might need to be a little bit more mindful and better look out for ourselves.
“When the lockdown here started, I set myself the goal of improving my finger strength by hangboarding. I got myself a rigid climbing training plan and started on day 1. But after a few days I noticed that I am absolutely not psyched to do this kind of rigid plan for such a long time - it is just not as much fun as simply climbing with friends and in no way felt like a good substitution. Especially because I still don’t know how long gyms will be closed here. If I would know I only need to bridge another 4 weeks with home training until gyms can open safely again, my motivation for rigid climbing training would probably be a bit higher. But for now my new goal while gyms are closed is to find one way of movement a day, which I enjoy: sometimes doing yoga, going for a walk, going for a run, sometimes I take part in a fitness challenge, sometimes that is hangboarding. I try my very best to be kind too myself, when I notice I am judging myself for losing strength and remind myself: that is totally okay if I am not as strong as I used to. I think this is extremly important but also difficult at times.” (Marieke, 23 year old climber)
Changing or adjusting your goal is absolutely fine – and in fact, important! You have not failed your goal if you adjust for life circumstances. It is actually very thoughtful to check on your goals from time to time. It can help you to identify what is working for you and what isn’t. Checking in with your goals on a regular basis also can bring back some motivation.
Here are some questions to check in with your goals:
Is my goal still important to me?
Is my goal achievable at this time in my life?
What if you don’t achieve your goal or if your goal changes?
Not achieving your goals or having to change them can be a big mental challenge. You might be frustrated or angry with yourself. You might lose your motivation or find it hard to get back on track.
That is absolutely normal.
If you have troubles with your motivation, troubles with not achieving your goals or having to change them, or experience a lack of motivation, and feel like you can never "finish pursuing your goals" because you get bored, frustrated, distracted before, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help! You’re not alone out there and don’t have to go through this all by yourself!
Talking with a sport psychologist about this exact mental hurdle can make a huge difference and can help you find solutions how to keep going (or find out why it is that you lack motivation after some time and find it hard to keep going).
Remember: If you ever have been thinking about getting mental support, you can schedule your first appointment here. It takes 30 minutes, it’s free – and hence also risk-free.