Motivation is measured in Hit Factor

The event final score is roughly equivalent to your motivation. Why you might ask? Simple. The value placed on winning is directly proportionate to the amount of time preparing to win. Few in this world are naturally gifted with enough talent to win without practice, so why think you’re any different?

Without question, there are different levels of participation in the sport and levels of participation are a good thing! We need those that enjoy setup, teardown, planning, socializing, and spending the day outdoors just as much as those training to win regional or national titles. What separates those two shooters is the desire to win.

I’ve experienced some shooters depression as many have, but I have only shot competitively for a bit under 18 months. That’s not a good thing folks! I had to step back to re-evaluate my level of participation and expectations. Taking a hard look at the time available for dry fire practice, live fire practice, and how many matches I could attend opened my eyes!

Due to an amazing wife and adorable son, much of my time is devoted to maintaining healthy family relationships. I cannot shoot a match every weekend or drive 45 miles each way, twice a week, to an outdoor range for live fire. That means I had to seriously evaluate my intermediate and long term goals. My time allows for 1 life fire session on Friday for non-match weekends and 1 match per month; dry fire starts at 5am Monday-Friday before momma and son are awake.

With setting a realistic schedule and goals, my initial long term goal is to move from B class to Master next year – 2018. Making GM might happen but is unlikely with my other life commitments, I will never be truly competitive at nationals but will have the opportunity to win local and regional major matches. I’m okay with that.

You, Mr. or Mrs. Reader must take an introspective look at your life and set realistic goals. Otherwise you will not improve and may face full and complete burnout. As Zig Ziglar said, “You must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win.”

What is your win?