For the past several days I've been glued to the Olympics on TV, along with millions of other people all over the world. My husband and I have been cheering and shrieking at the displays of courage, endurance, grace, power, and agility in the summer games in London.
Mostly, I never cease to be amazed by the sheer force of will demonstrated by these athletes, how they push past the threat of horrible injuries, public humiliation, defeat, and the instant loss of their dreams. I've decided that they can teach the rest of us regular humans a thing or two, very applicable to ordinary, everyday life:
- Keep plugging away at your goals or dreams day by day. Daily practice builds new neural pathways, moving you closer toward mastery with every effort.
- Envision your dreams or goal clearly, as though it's happening now. The imagining provides a form of mental "practice" vital for success, and reminds you about your motivation.
- Line up your actions with your goals. Ask yourself if what you're doing daily or weekly moves you closer to your destination. If not, make necessary adjustments.
- Get a "coach," either literally, or in the form of supportive friends and family who will support you and give you critical feedback about your progress. You can't succeed at most things in a vacuum.
- Create a "team." Find likeminded people who may share your dreams, and understand the anguish you feel when you fail. They'll speak your language.
- Practice daily, diligent self care. Get away from all or nothing stances, do the best you can with the time and energy you have. Remember that rest is also an important part of the picture.
- Monitor your thinking and be vigilant about self defeating or dark thoughts. They have a way of becoming self-fulfilling. If you give up, do it for a bit, and then get back in the game. Be kind to yourself. Congratulate yourself and enjoy your successes.
Remember, olympic effort can only move you closer to a medal of one kind or another.
Cheers,
Susan Lager
