Ensure your happiness is paramount, understanding that life isn’t an “all or nothing” situation; you can step away from passions and return to them later when the time feels right.
Understand that life and success don’t always follow a linear path; prioritize getting back into activities for happiness, and consistent effort will naturally lead to results.
Consistently show up for activities, even on days you don’t want to, as this builds discipline and, over time, leads to improvement and potential enjoyment.
Change your perspective on stressful situations, viewing them as exciting opportunities rather than overwhelming challenges, to positively impact performance and enjoyment.
Integrate self-compassion and adequate rest into your routine, as this approach is crucial for long-term sustainability and success in any endeavor, rather than short-term burnout.
Pay close attention to your body’s signals and promptly communicate any concerns to your coach or relevant support system to prevent minor issues from escalating.
Acknowledge natural fears and doubts, but actively fill your mind with positive and exciting thoughts to push away fear, especially during high-pressure moments.
Cultivate a “beginner’s mindset” or a degree of naivety, especially when returning to an activity, as it allows you to “go for it” without being overwhelmed by established names or past experiences.
Embrace taking calculated risks in competitive situations, as playing it safe often won’t lead to victory, and successful risks provide immense reward and excitement.
Recognize that special opportunities and phases of life are not permanent, which can foster greater appreciation and encourage you to seize every moment.
Combat pressure by focusing on gratitude for the opportunity, reminding yourself how special the current achievement is, especially if it was once unimaginable.
Seek out activities that naturally remove distractions like phones and screens, allowing you to be fully present and experience the moment intensely.
Actively work to reduce feelings of time famine and constant rushing, as having more time affluence allows for greater enjoyment, recovery, and focus on important activities.
Actively make decisions about your training and approach, as this increased control can lead to greater enjoyment and better performance.
Actively seek to have fun in your activities, especially when returning after a break, as coaches recognize this mindset can lead to optimal performance.
Consciously smile, even when facing discomfort or pressure, as it can trick your mind and body into feeling more positive, reminding you to enjoy the opportunity.
Allow yourself grace and sufficient time in your pursuits, understanding that progress isn’t always immediate and patience is key.
Engage in activities primarily for the sheer enjoyment they bring and the experience of living fully in the moment, rather than solely for external outcomes.
If a demanding activity consumes your life, take a complete break to enjoy other aspects of life, like socializing or traveling, which you might have previously sacrificed.
If you’re serious about returning to a pursuit, reconnect with a trusted and experienced coach or mentor who believes in your potential and has a proven track record.
Develop full trust in your coach or mentor, as this relationship is crucial for success and guidance in your chosen field.
Reduce high-impact training volume and supplement with lower-impact activities like cycling, ensuring at least one recovery day per week to prevent injury and promote consistent progress.
Treat competitive activities like a game of chess by studying opponents’ past performances and planning your moves based on your strengths to increase your chances of success and enjoyment.
Re-engage with exercise, especially during times of confinement or stress, to experience the release and enjoyment it can provide.
Participate in local, accessible events like Park Runs to get a measurable way of assessing your fitness and track your progress.
Recognize that you need to promote your own achievements and strengths, as it’s a necessary part of life.
Engage in negative visualization by contemplating the potential loss of cherished abilities or opportunities, which can foster gratitude and motivation in the present.
Listen to “Solved with Mark Manson” wherever you get podcasts, or visit solvedpodcast.com, to get science-backed answers to questions like how to stop procrastinating, make friends, or find purpose.
Check out Pushkin’s network for inspiring new athlete stories, sports science, and historical perspectives related to the Olympics.