A good friend once told me that competition means coming together, from the Greek, coming together to petition. Everybody’s game is lifted when you come together. ~Alfre Woodard
Every once in awhile I need to remind myself that I am here to give.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of solely focusing on what I need and what I want… my goals… my path forward… my success.
But, I am part of a team at Penn AC and a community on Boathouse Row.
We work together.
We rise together.
I am here to give as much as I’m here to personally succeed and grow.
Getting Clear
I’ve spent a lot of time recently on getting clear on who I am, what I stand for and what drives me in pursuit of more boat speed and rowing success.
I’ve learned that I love a good challenge.
And that GROWTH is one of the things I value most in this world.
There have been times this year when I’ve felt stuck or unable to see a way forward. I ended up feeling frustrated, helpless, anxious or depressed, and that makes sense because stuck is very much the antithesis of growth.
But…
I’m starting to think that there’s always a way forward. Sometimes you just need to reframe your circumstances, or talk to someone you trust to gain a new perspective or see things in a different light.
We’ve started work in the quad here in Philadelphia and everyday now I look for ways I can give and how I can grow. Teams are tricky. They’re exactly like families. We love each other. And simultaneously frustrate each other like crazy! Ultimately, though, we all want the same things—improvement, more boat speed, PR’s and big wins!
I love being part of something bigger than myself. I love contributing to a greater whole.
It’s race season. Tensions are high. And they will only continue to heighten as U.S. Trials approach and unfold. If you’re racing this summer, check in with yourself from time to time. Ask yourself what you value most, and what you want to gain from—and give to—this year.
2018 is HERE. We’re in the thick of it, my friends! Row hard, be smart and keep on living the dream! 😉
Philadelphia in June
Read more about the Schuylkill Navy Regatta in this write-up on USRowing found HERE.
Congratulations on the two Gold Medals at the Navy Regatta!
Grandpa Skola, Navy Veteran from WWII, is very proud of you!
The Polish Eagle is the best of the best!
Love your blog update. One of your best ever! This could be the start of a very good movie…’Stand Tall’. I’ll review with your film producer brother JR.
Your message is spot on. Together Everyone Achieves More!
In the arena of sports/athletics/rowing we learn the principles of determination, courage, team spirit, strength, wisdom and respect for others. Sports are a school for learning and promote strong character, spiritual greatness and a solid foundation for our lives. Well done!
This is such a good reminder! Great post!!
Great wisdom Cara! Always enjoy reading your blog.
Kellie Menke (sarasota)
Many things you reminded me of today! thanks for being a mentor and leader for us younger women scullers coming up! <3
Great start to the season keep up the good work. I enjoy reading you blog!!!
Thank you! 😀
It was great to catch up! Sounded like you took a lot of steps forward this year. Good luck at Club Nats and keep up the good work 😉
Thanks, Jess! It’s bee great working together the past two months. I can’t wait to read *you’re* next post!!
Thank you, Kellie! I’m so glad you follow along. P.S. Congrats to Grace on such a great season! 😀
Thanks! It’s been fun to do a few races on the Schuylkill this summer. All good stuff!!