I’ve had athletes approach me wanting to qualify for Hawaii, wanting to race pro or wanting to achieve a certain level of performance. I’m talking generally about many different athletes here. So don’t put “Dear —- at the top of it and think I’m talking to you in person. You’re probably not the only one who “wants something”, but doesn’t want it bad enough.

I’ve heard every possible reason why the best possible path cannot be followed. Why do we put obstacles in our own way? Why can we find things to do, places to go, and people to please, instead of doing what we say we want?

Most of these obstacles could be avoided if the goal I’ve been given is at the top of the priority list. If you really want it, it’s easy to make it the most important thing in your life.

No-one ever won Hawaii, or even won a category in Hawaii without it being the most important thing in their life that year. There’s a great saying “If you want something bad enough, you’ll find a way. If you don’t want it bad enough, you’ll find an excuse”.

We’re not just talking about excuses here. We’re talking about those important things that crop up. The business trip, the family committment, the opportunity to earn more. The things that are likely to derail your plans are real. They’re not frivilous things that you could easily skip. That’s the trap.

All of those important things can be handled. I’m not saying shut out your family or quit your job. I am saying, exercise your right to say no to some things. Or maybe yes, but not right now.

There not many positions on the podium. They don’t need many. Not many people are dedicated enough to get one.

It is possible to be a good parent, a good husband/wife, an overachiever in your profession, and still achieve your goals. In fact all of the people in my squad are over achievers. They amaze me sometimes, just how much they can fit into a life, and be incredibly happy.

Writing a list of goals in order of priority can be a great start in getting what you want. Then working out a strategy for the journey. Listing what you can fit in, and what you can’t.

Often the people who you have to deal with are flexible. They don’t always realise that they’re flexible. It simply takes the right deal to be offered to them, to tap into their flexibility. Everyman has a price, I’d say every woman has a price as well.

The best way to get what you want is not necessarily by bashing down the door. While never losing sight of your objective, negotiate around the obstacles. Keeping sight of your goal will ensure that the obstacles are simply bumps on the road to success. Let the negotiations be fun, don’t let them become confrontations. “You’ll catch more flies with honey than you will with vinegar”.

This is not just an age grouper’s problem, there are a lot of pro athletes who just don’t put success before “life”. I am certainly not saying that “having a life” is not possible while shooting for the stars. It can be the most fantastic, exciting life.

What I am saying is, “life” needs to be managed in a way which allows the path to the top, to be clear.

Once that path is clear, there’ll be nothing to stop you. As long as you know where you’re going.