Most of us have competed in sport at some point during our lives. I guess all it depends on what level you took it to, but I learnt that sport is more than a game… Sport is a perfect vehicle for learning about yourself and how you deal with life.
Even as adults we see professional businessmen and women, doctors, tradies, mums and dads spending hours on their weekend’s bike riding, playing tennis, snow skiing or just mixing it up in the gym.
Apart from it being great fun, sport teaches us about life, about our limitations (or heights) and how we can approach each day with greater awareness.
5 Lessons Sport Taught Me About Life
+ Live in the now
Focus only on what is in front of you, don’t think too far ahead about what you can’t control, and miss the present opportunity. I liken it to concentrating on the wave I am riding in the surf at that moment, rather than worrying about the set that may or may not clean me up on the way back out through the break.
+ Don’t be aggressive towards others but let it drive you within.
Hating others is such a waste of energy and it takes the focus off what you should be doing. Lift your own game..actions speak louder than words. Let others vary their own baggage and don’t let it affect your day.
+ Commitment is what separates the ordinary from the extraordinary
Some sportspeople may seem like they are born with the right genes or talent. Many people are the ones who expect more from themselves and take it to the next level that are successful.
+ Responsibility lies within us
If I had a dollar for every time I heard, whilst I was competing from others “Oh, I was so unlucky that I missed that wave”.. Blaming outside influences doesn’t work, sure there are the occasions that it happens, but if you put yourself in the right position within the waves they can also bring you a lot of luck! Create your own destiny.
+ Focus on what you do want
Your mind takes you where you want it to. Pre-visualisation has amazing benefits. When you think about what you don’t want to happen – say, a slice in golf, it happens! Fear dictates our outcomes whether it is a job interview, a public speaking gig or a major exam. Concentrate on what you want and let yourself be drawn towards that energy and outcome.
