Pulling the pin, a moment.

A lot of thought goes into to some decisions, and you look forward to whats to come. But even when you think you've contemplated every scenario and every angle of that decision sometimes things just aren't what they appeared and you know you'll probably have to pull the pin.

I decided a couple of months back that I was going to give basketball at a high level another shot (pardon the pun) with the Canberra Gunners. I was looking forward to the challenge and getting back on the court again in a team environment. Having only committed to the bare minimum, as my extra time these days is minimal, I thought it was going to be fine and initially was excited. Although when thinking about all the extra things that inevitably always pop up, (extra trainings, game video sessions, weights, promo's, physio for my back, triple header road trips!) I decided that rather than getting to the point of regretting playing and not enjoying it and ultimately being too late to pull out and abandon the team, I would pull the pin early on before training had even started. That way they have easily enough time to find a replacement.

I knew it was the right decision straight away as it felt like a huge weight had been lifted. I had been getting more and more worried how my back would hold up for the season and how I would fit everything in around basketball, especially family weekend activities the new love of riding. If I wasn't enjoying basketball for whatever reason and it was taking away from riding my bike, which I am absolutely loving at the moment, I would really resent it. That's something I wouldn't want to happen as its been such a massive and great part of my life.

Committing to things is easy, but knowing when that moment is you need to pull out of something you know in your heart wont work, is tough, but also crucial for your happiness.

A Moment -

I had a moment tonight doing a loop around Stromlo that I realised why I felt so good about the decision not to play Basketball this season.

For the 11 or 12 years I played basketball professionally, once you sign your contract with a team you are basically owned for that time. Your time seems not to be yours anymore, your at the mercy of the coach. If your fortunate enough to be in a winning team where everything is going smoothly then you have your schedule for the week and the rest of the time is your own. If your on a losing team on the other hand, your weeks can sometimes be turned upside down with spontaneous training sessions, or crisis meetings being called. Leaving you with no chance of planning anything outside of the basketball bubble your in.

Ever since being out of that scene, I have just loved the fact that I or we can plan anything and it be OK. Weekends are always free! Amazing. Nights are my own! awesome. It just dawned on me that not being in a way 'owned' by someone, gives you a wonderful sense of freedom. Especially out on your bike in the fresh air, amongst nature, on a beautiful evening. I really appreciate the less committed responsibility outside of home life I find myself with these days.

Single track through the spring flowers on a gorgeous Stromlo evening....and a moment of happiness.