Ten ways swimmers find to sabotage their support systems in Swimming.

• Want something for which you won't make any sacrifices. 'Those who want to go to heaven, have to be prepared to die."

Reality: pay the price for the privilege you want.

• Tell yourself "if I don't do IT by such and such a time, I'll give up". People who dream properly, don't set time limits, they set goals. Timeless goals.

Reality: Just say, "I will accomplish it" No time limits. Then set out to do it.

• Don't live like an athlete away from the pool. Let your lifestyle choices as a young adult ruin your in water hard work. Burn the candle at both ends…see how long it can last.

Reality: Proper rest and taking care of your body is almost as important as proper training in improving performance.

• Bribe your parents…. or your coach…by negotiation…"I'll do that if I can just do THIS, for the next five repeats". Compromise yourself to mediocrity.

Reality: Achievement means doing something better today than you have ever done before. Something little or something big. But do Something Better.

• Stay up till all hours before a meet, for the social fun that can be had in that setting. "I DESERVE to have a good time, I work so hard at this". Yes, you work hard.

Reality: The reward is good performance, not outside entertainments.

• Don't listen and learn good technique from coaches trying to help you. It's a technique-limited sport.

The Reality: Without great coaching, none of us go anywhere in any area of life. Learn to be "coachable."

• Don't be honest with yourself about when you are working and when you are cruising.

Reality: Swim Meets and the timing clock always expose our real work habits.

• Don't thank your teammates for all they bring to your enjoyment of the sport and your improvement. Think that you did it all by yourself.

Reality: We all get where you do because good people surrounded us and support us and lead us onward. Say thanks. Often.

• Don't thank your coach for their support in your sport.

Reality: The best reward a coach can get is when an athlete says thank you.

• Don't thank your parents for their support in your sport.

Reality: Be mature enough to recognize and say thanks to your biggest fans.