I think wording is important. When I started out riding, if I was going up an especially tough hill I used to say to myself.' I know I can do it, I know I can do it' but now I say,
'I'm doing it, I'm doing it - aren't I doing great! I'm going so well'
Ok - so it doesn't always FEEL like I'm doing great, but either way I'm still doing it. Even if I have a totally duff ride I still pat myself on the back as I'm still doing better than people who don't get of the sofa. I guess that makes 'You've got to be in it to win it ' another phase I repeat from time to time.
And at this time of year I reackon anyone who gets out there and rides, even for half an hour, is a winner in my mind.