Mindful Training of an Olympian

“Hey, takin’ on a challenge is a lot like ridin’ a horse. If you’re comfortable while you’re doin’ it, you’re probably doin’ it wrong.” -Ted Lasso

If you’ve seen Ted Lasso, you know he delivers some quirky wisdom, and this quote is so true! Discomfort IS part of approaching challenges!

We often focus on the final product, but there can be a whole lot of mess in the process. Ups and downs. “Failures” and setbacks. Remembering that it’s all part of the journey and having the mental strategies can make all the difference.

As I watch the Olympic games, not only are the athletes’ physical abilities mesmerizing, but their mental focus and strength is what really fascinates me. When the cameras zoom in on someone before their event, I always wonder, what prep are they doing in their mind? What’s their self-talk? How do they settle the excited energy of the moment and tune out everything around them and focus on what they need to do?  

Paralympic triathlete Hailey Danz, along with other athletes use mindfulness to develop their ability to handle these high stakes situations and their emotions while competing, like strength training for their mind.

 “Mindfulness for me involves just being very self-aware and non-judgmental,” Danz said. “So kind of just being able to be like, ‘Yeah, okay, I'm having this thought. I'm going let it go. And I'm going to bring myself back to what I can control right now.’” Paralympic triathlete Haley Danz.

 As you approach your own goals and challenges today,

What uncomfortable obstacle do you need to overcome to reach your goals?

• Notice your thoughts, let them go if they’re not serving you, and focus on what you can control in the moment

• Lean into the discomfort in the moment. It’s all part of the process of exploring new territory and experiences.

You can read more about Hailey Danz here (and if you haven’t seen Ted Lasso yet, check it out!)