My family loves the Olympics. I mean, we really love the Olympics. We love everything about them including (but not limited to) the pomp and circumstance of opening ceremonies, the excitement of the crowds, interviews with the athletes, inside glimpses of the Olympic Village, and are amazed by the incredible talent of every competitor. We watch each sport with the enthusiasm of a child waiting in line to see Santa and dream of being in the stands. We start the official countdown months before the games begin and wait with great anticipation.
So far, we have been enthralled by gymnastics, beach volleyball, regular volleyball, badminton, table tennis, swimming, handball, 3v3 basketball, rugby, and archery. We have been unable to tear ourselves away from the TV for fear of missing something incredible.
The Olympics makes us burn with patriotism for our country and reminds us that there are still people in this world who are willing to work hard to achieve great things. Hearing the National Anthem of the United States play during a medal ceremony is enough to bring us to tears and seeing the American flag waving proudly invokes feelings of immense pride. At that moment, our country feels united, and anything seems possible. That is the true spirit of the Olympics.
Athletes like Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky are proof that the capability of the human body is almost limitless when it is fueled properly, trained hard, in top health, and controlled by a brain with a winner’s attitude. The mindset of an athlete is to push themselves far past their comfort zone and past physical pain. They believe they can always run or swim faster, jump higher, aim more accurately, or outmaneuver their opponent—and because of this core belief, coupled with tremendous work ethic and natural ability—they often do. World records that seemed unbeatable four years ago are shattered and dreams are realized. Simultaneously, new dreams are born. Even when things don’t go exactly right, most athletes don’t quit. They continue to work harder and often come back stronger, more determined than ever, and with increased mental fortitude.
Can you imagine what the world would be like if more people had the attitude of Olympic athletes? What things could we accomplish if we all worked hard, never gave up, supported other teammates, and took pride in our country? I’m not saying we should all be world class athletes, but we can all take a little of the Olympic spirit into our daily lives, our jobs, our parenting, our homes, and our communities.
Whatever you go after today, go after it with great veracity. Work hard and do your best, your absolute best. Make your dreams come true.
What’s your favorite thing about the Olympics? Let me know in the comments.
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