I guess I took all those negative emotions that I experienced the 4 days before and used the crappy match as a learning experience for the next.
That Monday straight pool match was full of unnecessary pressure, frustration, negative thoughts, and no fun - just an unpleasant match full of tough emotions that I thought I had tamed from all my years of experience.
I guess I "listened" to the match, though. By Friday, I was involved in another straight pool match. Would I keep going downhill and falter, or would I rebound nicely?
To my surprise, the pressure was full force, but I never FELT the pressure. Does that make sense? I enjoyed the match, even though it was close and I was suppose to win. I am not sure why this night was different - it could have easily turned into the same crappy time at the table because we were neck and neck, when in reality I'm suppose to win, just like Monday's match.
I started off with a 13 ball run. He returned with an 11 ball run. Wait a minute? Is this the same guy I usually beat pretty easily 100-50 or so? I guess he's improved!
After a few innings, I'm at 25 and he makes a 14 ball run. Score 29-25.
This keeps happening. I go on a little run, so does he. But, I never let my emotions get out of control, like I let happen just the Monday before. I didn't let the pressure get to me, I simply tried to focus on the balls in front of me and accept the fact he has improved and I might lose. I also tried to enjoy the match - that sure didn't happen Monday. I was way too frustrated.
It's 37-40
51-54
61-64
I finally get a comfortable lead at 80-64 then it's 89-72, 91-80, and I win 100-81. I admit I started to lose focus when I get on 80, but I finally won. Whew.
What a difference 4 days can make!
Really wish I knew why this night was different.... but glad it wasn't a repeat of spiraling out of control!
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