🙋‍♀️ Swimming, Sharing Lanes, and Observing With Compassion ❤️

Today’s swim session unfolded in a way I didn’t quite expect. Out of the two available lanes, one had been taken by a group of older teens completing a 300m swim trial - a requirement for joining the diving team. 

That left seven of us of varying speeds and abilities sharing the remaining lane. It was, to say the least, an interesting experience.

As we all navigated the space together, I noticed the different ways people responded. Some expressed frustration. One woman commented on how unfair it felt. Others simply got on with it, finding a rhythm amidst the crowded waters. I managed 30 lengths, stopping and starting as needed, and found myself observing the dynamics around me more than focusing on pace or performance.

Curiosity is often my companion in these moments. I chatted with a gentleman in the next lane, asking what was happening with the swim trials. And with understanding came compassion - for the young swimmers doing their best, and even for the frustration that was rising in others. It reminded me: things aren’t always unfair, they just are in that moment.

I’m constantly reminded that I am only responsible for my own inner world - how I respond, what I focus on, what energy I choose to carry or release. So today, I chose not to focus on my time or how "perfect" the session was. I focused on what I could do. On being present. On observing, swimming, and staying grounded.

After my 30 lengths, I hopped out and relaxed in the spa, continuing to watch the swim trials with gentle curiosity. Once the lane opened back up, I got back in and completed 10 more lengths, rounding off my swim at 1km. Even then, with more space and calm returning, I could still feel a trace of the frantic energy lingering in the water. I noticed it, and chose to stay at my own pace. I reminded myself that 1km was enough today, and I felt proud of my effort.

As I watched the swim trials, I couldn’t help but notice ways the young swimmers could improve their technique. With a few tweaks, they’d likely tire less quickly and swim more efficiently. A part of me wanted to speak to their coach - share a suggestion or two. But then that familiar inner voice rose up: “Am I overstepping?”

It’s something I often wrestle with - wanting to help when I see another way, but not wanting to intrude or assume I know best. Maybe you’ve felt that too?

Today wasn’t about achieving the perfect swim. It was about listening, observing, and honouring where I was. And maybe, gently, learning to trust when the moment is right to share what I see, and when it’s best to simply swim my own race.

Have you ever found yourself in a shared space, physical or emotional, where things didn’t go quite as planned? How did you respond?

Do you find it easy to observe and adapt, or does frustration rise first?

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

What do you focus on when things feel chaotic or unexpected?

And how do you know when it’s time to speak up, or simply swim your own pace?

Let’s open the conversation - your reflections are always welcome.

To keep up to date with all my swimming blogs as I aim for 20km in June please feel free to visit https://bigswim.org.nz/a-young (blog posts are at the bottom) 

#bigswim #aleyyoung #myswimmingjourney