Whatever your sport or activity, this is what you need to know…
If you trust your equipment, then you will be confident. As soon as you question something, then it becomes a possible excuse as to why your results are not as you want. Excuses never help. You need to take 100% responsibility.
You have to trust your stuff.
It is not about what looks the best or has the highest price tag. Whatever is working for you then that one needs to be used. Learn by trying out every single thing in as many conditions as possible. Once you have made your decision then stick to it. This is a non-negotiable. Every time you second guess something, it eats away at your confidence.
It is absolutely incredible how many performers use brand new stuff during competitions. Yes things can break but they should be tested during training so you are confident that you know what will happen to your technique or physical abilities if a substitution is required. Maybe it won’t be as perfect as what you had, but it should not be a surprise either. Control what you can.
But if something does happen – and if it is incredibly rare thus not foreseeable – do not freak out. BREATHE!
Luggage does go missing (try to take direct flights whenever possible to avoid transfers, have a picture of your bag, mark your bags multiple places, use an electronic tracker), companies stop making items (have backups when possible, contact the manufacturer directly for possible replacements, post in a forum to see if someone has an extra), weather conditions can be crazy in other countries (have options so you can adapt no matter what the forecast has said), know the food/drinks sponsors (if your stomach cannot handle certain brands then make sure you have a replacement) and COFFEE! (or tea… this matters to some of us. Hotel breakfasts and event kiosks might have something other than what you desire).
Most of all, make it a habit to take amazing care of the stuff you already have and what you need to be your best. Everything should be considered as an important investment into each and every performance you do.
Inventory:
List every single piece of equipment (with sizes, settings, adaptations) you currently have, need and want…
- Required/ Optional –> be specific as possible. Know your priorities.
- Training/ Competition –> this includes uniforms
- Quality you need now/ future –> is something better than nothing? Injury prevention is more important than looking cool. Do not take risks with the only body you have.
- New verses used –> sometimes the older models are better. And if it still works, then use it or give to someone who needs it. It is a waste to let stuff go which still has value.
- Quantities and turnovers –> how many do you need? How quick does it wear out? Where can you get a new one?
- Guarantees/ expectations –> marketing means nothing when you are the one doing the work. If you like it then that is all the endorsement required.
- Fixable/sell-able/ trade-able –> again… if it still works then find a way to let it give value to someone else.
- Can you share it? –> some things are needed once in a while. You really do not need to have your own… can your club/team have one which everyone can use? Will someone want to use yours?
- maintenance –> do not skip this part ever. Learn how to take care of your stuff. Keep it clean. Repair as soon as possible. Know best conditions for storage. Do not waste what you have.
- Transport to training –> different activities need different bags. Keep your things organized and protected.
- Transport to competitions –> some things need more care than others. Your performance attire is special.
- Transport via foot/ bike/ car/ plane –> every option to make it easier should be considered…including tracking methods in case something disappears en route.
- Refuelling drinks/ meal replacements –> sometimes finding the one you like is worth more than the medal
- Insurance –> is it covered under your home policy? What happens if in the car or a plane?
- Permits –> some stuff needs paperwork. Make sure you know the rules and laws. Have digital/ hard copy backups.
- Safety –> this is your stuff. Care for it and protect it. If someone else does not recognize the value then do not let them play with it.
*** your list can be tracked using the Inventory pages in PROOF.
Kelea Quinn 