Actual REALITY
Most soaring pilots put undue emphasis on their instruments instead of observing the much more useful information that is everywhere, in the sky and on the ground. Don't stare at the vario, it LIES to you! Yes, audio varios can be useful, but they mask the sound of the air, which itself is splendid information – and is pleasant rather than annoying. A good soaring pilot will feel the air and visualize mental movies of its flow. Make a habit of continually scanning for every kind of information available, and you will find much vital detail you didn't know to expect. Some will be welcome and some will not, but discerning and analyzing 'all available information' is key to success. Do not become mentally lazy during a thermal climb. It's your opportunity to develop plans for the moment that climb ends. By training yourself to THINK, continuously, incisively, and creatively, you can learn to perform little miracles, sometimes almost on demand! Then, when the lift weakens or dies, be decisive. MOVE!