Lessons From The Olympics

I don't know about you, but my eyes have been glued to the TV for the past few days—the Olympics are on!

It's true, I'm more of a summer sports person—so many of my heroes are Canadian track stars—but I can appreciate the hard work and commitment that goes into training for any sport, and there's something magical about watching someone ride the rails on a snowboard. I can't even stay upright for a full ride down the bunny hill!

We've been talking about the Olympics in class, of course, and not just about the science or math (counting medals!) of it, but also about some of the important things we can learn from Olympic athletes. Here are my top 5 lessons—how many can you relate to?

They never stop learning. Olympic athletes are at the top of their games because they spend so much time practicing, always looking for ways to improve. They try new techniques. My coach says if I'm going to be the best runner I can be, I will need to be a student of the sport for life.

They overcome obstacles. On the course, yes, but also in life. It's sometimes easier to run from adversity, but Olympic athletes find a way to persevere. I saw a mini documentary the other day on a snowboard athlete who had fallen in every Olympics—she didn't win gold this year, but she made it to the end without falling. It must have been really disheartening to keep falling—but she got back up. Every time.

They think big. Olympic athletes don't sell themselves short—they believe they're going to win gold. Whether it's acing a math test, running your best race, or finishing some kind of personal challenge, don't sell yourself short—believe it, and in YOU!

They know it's desire that counts. Winning isn't everything. Deep down, I know that. As long as I do my best—whatever that takes—then I can be proud of my efforts. I don't have to win, but I do have to want to win. Every athlete at the Olympics shares that goal.

They are accountable. Olympic athletes are accountable to their country, their coach, themselves— and that makes a huge difference. For some of my goals, I'm accountable—like, running track for my school. But others? I could use a bit of practice. How about you?

Watching the Olympics is a lot of fun—and it's also a great educational opportunity. What have you learned? And, what's your favourite sport? Mine? Snowcross, of course. It's like Nascar on snowboards!

Gotta jet! Have a great weekend.

~ Chase Superman Duffy