It’s not easy to do it but sometimes, motivation counts! I had my swimming lesson recently in camp and I decided to try out the lifeguard test, which consist of the basic 4 strokes; breaststroke, freestyle, back-kick and side-kick.

I had been practicing on these strokes for quite some time though not in regular basis. Throughout my previous timings, I only managed to hit 9 plus minutes as my best timing. However, after going through the test, of course with lots of pushing (motivation, I guess) from the instructors, I managed to complete the challenge in 8:49 minutes! Amazing!

Not forgetting that I was totally exhausted at the end of the swim test but also, I knew that I had pushed myself very hard for this as my mind kept telling me to give up at times during the midst of the course.

Sadly, the instructor was feeling a bit disappointed to know that I was not from the NS squad, or else he could have me as a swim instructor for the camp. I find it wasted after knowing this but think again, sometimes in life, opportunities do knock onto your door but does not mean you could totally have it.

I’m glad that I knew a few instructors from the pool side and I enjoyed learning about the new ways to improve my strokes for my various swims but also, find it such a waste not to be part of the swim staff in the camp. Regardless what happens, self consoling is the best way to heal my mind and soul for now. In the next 5 years time, I may be a swimming instructor, who knows?

Being recognized by these people for my strength is a plus point for me yet overall, a wasted opportunity I guess. However, with my current status, I must understand that I’ve chosen this path to pursue my dreams and most of all, I’m turning my dream into a reality.

Yet, best of all things, breaking your personal best shows that you are improving, and indeed, I did it!