We have had a few exciting weeks watching the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. And if you are like me, your voice may have gone hoarse while cheering for your favorite athletes or country men and women. There is pride in seeing your country’s flag flying high and hearing your national anthem played every time your country wins a medal.
Watching these games, got me thinking about all the lessons we can pick-up from the various athletes that represented our nations.
Here is what I learned.
“Only the disciplined ones in life are free.” This is a quote by Kenyan Athlete and Olympic Gold Mentalist Eliud Kipchoge.
This is a powerful statement. If you think back to all the athletes who spoke about their personal stories during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, there was an underlying message. “Discipline.”
I have always believed that human beings are lazy in nature, that is why we establish routine. No one wants to have to wake up at 4am, go for a run or meet his or her trainer at the gym and then go to work. It takes grit and discipline. Discipline sets the tone for greatness. Discipline sets the pace and determines how far you will go in your chosen path.
However, discipline has to go hand in hand with consistency. One cannot simply be inconstant and think they will make a difference. That creates a whole different situation and lots of frustration.
Consistency is in everything you do. The time you wake up, the time you pray, the time you exercise, the time you eat, the time you work, the time you socialize, the time you sleep etc. My grandfather had a dedicated time for his day-to-day activities and we knew not to disturb him. I suppose that’s why he was successful in every area of his life.
Be prepared. Preparation is the most important part of whatever it is you decide to do. I hear people say “stay ready so that you don’t have to get ready.” Whether it is training so that you can be the best you can be or acquiring knowledge so that you know the questions to ask, it pays to be prepared. Always push yourself and strive to be in a room of people greater than you are.
Mentality is where success is. Did you see Kipchoge receiving athletes at the finish line as if he too had not run the same race? They say one should make sure their mind is just as fit as their body if not more. The mind should always control the body.
One of the other memorable and teachable moments for me was when four-time Gold Medalist gymnast Simone Biles pulled out of the competition over a “disorienting mental block.” Her decision taught us one must always prioritize mental wellness over competition. She then went on to win a bronze medal in the beam competition. What a brave lady!
Have fun. None of these teachings matter if you don’t enjoy what you do. Put a smile on your face and enjoy your passion from the heart.
What are some of the lessons you learned from the Olympics? How would you apply them in what you do?
We at IncubatorU are always ready to help you circumvent your life’s journey while using teachable moments to take you where you need to be. Reach out to IncubatorU’s founder Michael via email; michael@incubatoru.com