Mentally strong folks are not perfect.
They’re in balance.
Able to balance emotions with rational thinking.
This formula led Simone Biles to high honor.
Instead of pushing ahead with the “twisties,” she . . .
- pulled back
- re-centered
- won a medal
You don’t have to be flawless to succeed.
Just refuse three mental traps ready to devour your sanity.
Freedom to correct midcourse
On Monday July 26th, Biles lost her sense of balance.
Mind and body not working. Mistakes multiplying.
Once polished skills suddenly elusive.
Move on and participate? No.
Pause? Yes and study the problem.
What went wrong?
Don’t know but twisting out of whack.
Stopping a few days sprung an idea to compete without twisting.
Showcase the skills in tact and change the dismount.
Freedom not to please everyone
Mentally strong folks are just fine not pleasing everybody.
But, a top gymnast in Olympic history?
You bet. Simone Biles withdrew from 4 competitions.
- The team final
- The all-around
- The floor exercise
- The vault
In spite of the pressure to keep going, she stepped back.
“For anyone saying I quit, I didn’t quit. My mind and body are simply not in sync. I don’t think you realize how dangerous this is on a hard/competition surface. Nor do I have to explain why I put health first. Physical health is mental health.” Simone Biles/Tokyo Olympics
People-pleasing leads to stupid decisions.
In Bonnie Ware’s, The Top Five regrets of the Dying, she said a common regret is not being true to yourself; knowing what’s right at the moment.
Freedom not to be perfect
Do you insist on perfection?
Most athletes do. It’s their job.
No one ever says its your best work while in the middle of the pack.
The more you accomplish the more folks expect of you.
Even when you’re not OK.
But, a willingness to be imperfect makes you stronger.
“Developing mental strength is about improving your ability to regulate your emotions, manage your thoughts, and behave in a positive manner, despite your circumstances.” Amy Morin
Simone Biles did just that.
Reward? Tied an American gymnastics record for Olympic medals.
Lesson for us all?