Mike's Mailbag: Focusing on Practice Times

Mike's Mailbag: Focusing on Practice Times
By Mike Gustafson//Correspondent
Every Monday, I answer questions from swimmers around the country. If you have a question, please email me at swimmingstories@gmail.com
Dear Mike,
Over the past season I have gone from a BB and A swimmer to a AAA and AAAA swimmer. I have just turned 13 this season but I'm having a lot of trouble getting anywhere near my best times. Especially in my 200 breast, I keep adding 4 seconds or more in it every time I swim, which is not helping my confidence level, which was already low, and my motivation. The 13-14s in my LSC are very fast and I want to be able to compete with them at championship meets. How can I get back to where I was just a few months ago while staying motivated and confident?
From "No Confidence"