Starting Pitcher Syndrome

I posted yesterday about my plans to start working out in the morning in preparation for Tough Mudder in May. Much to my surprise I received an interesting response from someone on facebook that read similar to this:

"Oh, I see your resolution coincides with New Year's and everyone else promising to get in shape. Really classy...good luck with that." 

At first I was slightly hurt. I'll admit it, I actually made a giant sad face and contemplated removing my post in fear that other people would also mock me. 

And then I got angry. Angry that someone who hasn't seen me in ten years is trying to rain on my parade. So angry that I tried coming up with several sarcastic responses, each nastier than the one before it, but unable to click "Post."

So I deleted the comment. Shut off my computer and went to bed sulking. 


But I woke up this morning with the realization that this person had a point. It was like he knew one of my major flaws: Starting Pitcher Syndrome. 

Being married to a baseball fanatic, we often refer to our relationship as the perfect bullpen: I'm the starting pitcher, but my husband is the closer. I'm really REALLY good at making plans, starting them and working towards our goal. But 3/4 of the way into it, I usually get tired or just get sick of it. This is when Josh steps in and finishes the game. Perfect example: I rarely finish a whole can of soda. I leave just enough in the bottom because I don't want to finish it. I start putting away groceries and get distracted after the refrigerated items and leave the rest on the counter. Sure, this approach works fine at home but not for this. Josh can't do my training for me. And unless I want him or someone else to physically DRAG me across the finish line, I need some extra motivation. 


So I came up with a solution after just finishing the book The Hunger Games (such a great read if you are in the market for a new novel).  I have to work for my Tough Mudder gear. At the end of each month, I get to purchase something that will help me in the Tough Mudder event. Things like Under Armour leggings, moisture wick socks, and a grip gloves. If I don't finish my workouts, I don't get the gear. So unless I want to be wearing cotton shorts, a t-shirt and zero protection on my hands and knees, I HAVE TO go to the gym. I have to record my workouts.  I have to stick to this plan. 


In short, thank you Mr. Negative Nancy on Facebook. Your comments might have been somewhat rude, but you were right. And now it's time for me to put my money where my mouth is.