The 2011 Tri season is upon us!

The snow has (finally) melted here in the NE and race season is upon us. Mr. TheyTri actually has a very early season Ironman this year, IMTX, so we're on an accelerated schedule this year. Those in warmer climes are already racing. So, I think it's time for my annual "have you had the talk?" post.
Our friend @co2legs reminded me of this the other day when he sent out an email soliciting tips on balancing life, work and training for his Team Continuum news letter. The grim reality is...there is no balance. Something always gives. The questions are, what gives, for how long and what is the consequence of that.
So, that is why I'm a firm believer that you and your athlete need to have a pre-or-early-season talk. An HONEST talk. Most people are willing to sacrifice some things so that their loved one can achieve a goal. But how much and for how long is not something that should be assumed. It's vital to sit down and hash out the race schedule. Then to try and figure out how much time will be needed to train. Compare calendars: what training sessions simply cannot be missed and, conversely, whose wedding/birthday is imperative to attend despite the training schedule. 
I think some athletes get tunnel vision. They focus so much on their A race or their big goal that other things slide to the side. Those of us who are supporters do understand that it takes a lot of time, energy and sacrifice to achieve. But the athlete needs to understand that it's a two-way street-- other people have needs, wants and goals, too. This is why the talk is so vital.
Sometimes athletes get "lifed." And it is in those times we supporters earn our stripes. Right now, Mr. TheyTri is slumped on the couch with his laptop, logged in to work after already putting in a 70+hour work week and only 42 days out from IMTX. It's a huge weight. He is exhausted. So, not to pat myself on the back (though, come on, I'm awesome!), but we're foregoing the date night we'd been so excited about and I mulched the garden and am taking on a bit more of the household load this weekend. After IMTX, when I need help as I'm training for the Disney Marathon in January or I need to drop some of the daily nonsense we 'adults' have to shoulder, it'll be his turn. Try and remember the Golden Rule.