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FIVE WAYS YOU CAN WORK LIKE AN OLYMPIAN

There is no doubt that the Olympics have become a bigger and bigger spectacle throughout the years. With inspiring athletes like Michael Phelps, Simone Biles and Usain Bolt, it is no wonder that the entire world forgoes their regular nighttime activities to see them compete on the world stage. While most of us wish our athletic careers had not ended with the completion of high school, there are some ways that we can emulate our Olympic heroes and use their favorite mantras and methods to gain success in our own lives- whether you’re working a nine-to-five or working to finish your degree.

1. GET THE RIGHT TEAM TOGETHER
It’s no secret that Olympians have a gigantic posse monitoring their every meal, workout, sleeping routine and practice session. While most of us could not afford or would necessarily want to be monitored this much, it only goes to show that support is an important factor when striving for personal success. You need to make your family and friends a priority, even though you may not be able to see how your relationship with them connects you with your goals. These people are there for you, so be ready to make sacrifices and support them when they need it the most.

2. PERFECT THE ART OF THE REST DAY
Olympians train like it is their job- because it is! However, when it is time for a break they need to find someway to occupy their mind and body while resting up for another tough week. While every athlete has different relaxation techniques, the more favored and less strenuous athletic activities such as yoga and hiking can keep their minds occupied, allowing them to worry less about their physical training. While you may just feel like sinking into the couch on your day off, it may be a better option to go for a walk or find another activity that’s more engaging than Netflix.

3. PLAY TO YOUR STRENGTHS
It’s an undisputed fact that Olympians come in all shapes and sizes, with Simone Biles tiny wingspan, you would not expect her to make the women’s swimming team and we do not think that Lilly King would have a very good shot at joining the Final Five anytime soon. The important thing to remember is that each of these athletes has unique abilities and tools that help them succeed in their niche areas. This applies to your work as well. Take some time to explore your strengths and how you can to utilize them in your current position. Is this job allowing you to be the very best or are you floundering near the back of the pack. If you find that this is your current predicament, it is time to either train the very hardest or start looking for new opportunities.

4. AGE IS JUST A NUMBER
There are a lot of us that get caught up in the idea that we cannot switch careers or advance beyond a certain level at our age. However, if Oksana Chusovitina would have had this mentality her career would have ended long before she took home a silver medal in women’s vault at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. At age 33 she was able to finally take home one of the most coveted prizes in all of sports. With a long and storied career behind her, Chusovitina’s career longevity and diversity should be an inspiration to us all. No one is ever too old to be a serious competitor and the best part is that her story still continues as she qualified for the women’s vault final at the 2016 Rio Olympics at age 41.

5. ALWAYS KNOW YOU HAVE THE POWER TO SURPRISE YOURSELF
There are a lot of things to be doubtful of in this world, however, you are never one of them. Once you have put in the effort and hard work, know that good things are to come. Don’t ever doubt yourself when it comes to getting a promotion or landing a new job. The entire world fell in love with Fu Yuanhui when she said that her greatest accomplishment was that she surpassed herself once she was informed that she had won the bronze medal in the women’s 100m backstroke. While it was good not to expect a medal, it is best to know that you can always surpass your own expectations.

While no one is waiting with medals and a podium at the end of a long workday, know that being the best you can be at your job requires the same discipline as someone who hopes to make an appearance at the next Olympic Games. With that in mind, always work like you are going for gold.