My 2011 Season- How to Learn from Your Season

I know I did my 10 things I learned this season but I read this article on Active this morning which got me thinkin I should try to answer these questions. So here goes
1. In hindsight, were your season goals clear and attainable?
Considering my big season goal was to finish a half iron and I did. I would say yes the were clear and attainable.

2. What were you most proud of this season?
Top would be finishing the half ironman with a close second of keeping the dedication to train for the half ironman. It took a lot of hard work and dedication to get to that finish line, not just on race day but for the months leading up to it.

3. What would you like to duplicate next year?
I am definitely going to stay with my coach, Balance Multisport. Sorry your stuck with me! I want to continue to take on new challenges like I did.

4. What frustrated or disappointed you the most this season?
I want to work on my run and cycling speed. I am starting to work on that now for the off-season with hill work and speed work.

5. What do you not want to happen again next year?
Nutrition issues! No more puking, swelling etc. I need to get this all figured out!

Here's where the questions get tough!

6. What did you learn by going through these experiences?
I really learned that it is going to take a lot to keep me from finishing a race! Not puking, not a flat tire, not even a incoming storm could keep me from crossing the finishline.

7. What decisions did you make that were empowering for you?
Deciding to change coaches to go with someone who was more similar to me really paid off. I am still working on nutrition in daily life and racing. I found I have a great support group around me now, with D being my biggest supporter!

8. What habits seemed to hold you back from achieving your potential?
My mental preparedness. I need to work on mentally being prepared for a race and going into it with a level of confidence. (I need to work on this for other parts of my life not just racing!) Along the same lines I need to learn not to rip apart my performances and see the accomplishment for what it is!

9. What decisions should you make in order to have your best triathlon year ahead?
Decide what races are A and stick to it, those are the bigger deal and the larger focus. This will help with the mental racing issues, I'd think. Every race can't be an A race some days are meant to build up to bigger things and I need to be sure to keep that in perspective. It will also help in appreciating the accomplishment of that A race or that not A race!