Despite all the challenges the organizers, coaches and athletes face the Olympic games are on. I often wonder with all the money a country spends to showcase this worldwide extravaganza, is it worth it? Unequivocally yes! And why is this? Because it brings out the best leader in us all.
Think about these 5 takeaways:
1. Appreciation. We come to appreciate people from around the world and their cultures. This spirit, this mindset instills trust.
2. Winning. It is inherent in every athlete, especially world class athletes who dedicate their everyday life for excellence in their discipline. Wanting to be better, motivated to push themselves to being the best, brings fulfillment and happiness.
3. Coaching. We are all coaches. Of ourselves, and those we interact with, every day. Leading ourselves, learning to employ empathy in our interactions with others that brings joy and belief in all.
4. Emotions. Competing is very emotional, and very human. We all wonder how athletes handle their emotions so they can optimize their performance. We know performance is about both body and mind. We wonder about how they tune in or tune out their competitors. We wonder, even without live audiences, how they react and feel about spectators who view livestreams, network broadcasts or other means. Getting in touch with our emotions is powerful and brings out authenticity and humility.
5. Self- Awareness. The Olympics allows athletes, coaches, organizers, the press and spectators, to consider how we show up every day. No matter the challenges, getting in touch with ourselves, how we feel, how we respond, and why we do things the way we do, lets us all be human.
So, consider adopting the coach in you. Lead yourself, lead with your heart and bring a sense of spirit to your life, on the field and everywhere else. I think it makes us better and perform our best.
