5 Things Elite Athletes Can Teach Our Kids

What Elite Athletes Can Teach Our Kids

Whether it's being an Olympic athlete or winning the school spelling bee, achieving a goal requires a tremendous amount of commitment. Swimmer Michael Phelps did two four-hour practices every day. Before competing in the 2012 Olympics, he trained for well over half his life. As a teenager, there were times he would rather have slept in late or hung-out with his friends. But, he had been dreaming of being a swimming champion since watching the 1996 Summer Olympics and was willing to make the necessary sacrifices. And it paid off ... he's the most decorated Olympian of all time!

2. Setting the Right Goal

All the training and preparation won't matter if you aren't playing to your strengths. With his proportionally longer "wingspan" and reportedly double-jointed ankles, Michael Phelps's body type was made for swimming. Discovering our talents and skills, and applying them to the things we enjoy, is key to success. As basketball coach John Wooden said, "Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do."

3. Family Matters

"I knew that however I performed, my parents would still love me," responded Greg Louganis when asked what he was thinking just before diving for a gold medal. Children naturally want to please their parents and everyone needs a fan club. They should know that we will always be their biggest fans no matter what. I read an article recently that said the best thing we can say to our kids after watching them compete is simply, "I love watching you (play, sing, dance, perform)!"

4. Keep Your Head Where Your Feet Are

Even Olympic athletes get into arguments with their best friends, does poorly on a test, or worries about disappointing themselves or others. But, when it's time to compete, champions have the ability to focus on that moment. Learning to live in the moment and focus on the process rather than the outcome is a skill that can be beneficial in every aspect of life.

5. Dealing with Disappointment

Oksana Baiul, Olympic Figure Skating Gold Medalist, once said, “One shouldn't be afraid to lose; this is sport. One day you win; another day you lose. Of course, everyone wants to be the best. This is normal. This is what sport is about. This is why I love it.” We all face times in our lives when we are disappointed. Focus on the achievements of all the athletes, not just the top winner. Help your child empathize with the ones who didn't get the gold and talk about what you think the athletes might do next.