The Olympic games are fascinating to watch. It's when the best of the best come out to show the world all they have been working towards over the course of their lives. There is a huge degree of pride for each country and for each individual athlete. There is also a bit of masochism at watching these people dedicate their lives to something so physical and challenging.
As I marveled at the talent, I noticed four things we can all learn from these athletes. Sports aside, these are some powerful observations that I believe we could all use in our lives.
- They know that hard work = big rewards.
Some of these competitors have been dreaming about going to the Olympics their entire lives. They did not just wish for it or dream about it, they made it happen. They worked tirelessly and made it their job to get to this place. It is rare to find an easy way to get to something great. Watching the Olympics can remind us of the passion, dedication, and the extremely hard work it takes to make your dreams come true. - They congratulate themselves.
As a whole, these athletes know their value and are not afraid of a good congratulatory fist pump when they have nailed their event. This is something I do not see enough. As Americans, we are usually somewhere on the extreme ends of the pride spectrum: way too much of it or not any at all. We could learn a thing or two about this positive act of patting ourselves on the back for a job well done. - They get back up when they fall.
I could be wrong, but I do not believe in the history of the Olympics a gymnast has fallen off, stepped out of place, or made a wrong move and then walked off the floor. With the obvious exception of injuries, if they fall off, they immediately get back up and keep it moving. When we are knocked down in the day-to-day struggle of life, it is easy to throw in the towel and call it quits. Rather than doing that, we can learn to follow through with and finish what we started. - The use mantras to get in the zone.
Athletes have spoken about using mantras, meaningful and powerful statements that they tell themselves over and over, to help get them into the zone. The trick is, they do not just use these statements when it is time to compete. They might use it every day or in specific moments when they need clarity and focus. What we can take away from this is finding our own saying to boost us up. Mantras are powerful devices to boost self-esteem and reduce stress.
In no way will I ever be an athlete like these amazing men and women, but I will certainly use their tricks to push forward. I hope you enjoyed the games!