Indians went into a festive fever and were exhilarated, when we won our first ever gold medal in Athletics in Tokyo 2020. Neeraj Chopra became a household name overnight and everyone wanted to be part of his success story.
Certainly, a proud moment for a country of more than 1.3 billion individuals. We all know that such kind of success comes with tons of hard work, dedication and discipline. I watched some exciting moments during the 2020 games and looked beyond the joy and entertainment.
What did I learn?
- It is absolutely critical to keep going and be focused on how one can improve oneself and be better tomorrow than yesterday
- Develop oneself to be calm under pressure situations and be able to deliver one's best
- Keep oneself motivated during the journey, when not many know or believe that one can do it. Let's ask ourselves, how many of us knew Neeraj Chopra prior to August 2021?
- Be able to hold and handle one's success - being calm and humble
The Indian men's hockey team also created history. They were on the medal podium with a Bronze after 40 years. From a complete dominance in this event until 1964 and then in 1980, we haven't been able to even make it to the final 4 since the last four decades
What did I learn?
- Nothing is constant or permanent
- Keep evolving and never lose sight of what is coming and what may change
- One may have a bad patch or rough time, but one must keep challenging his or herself and introspect
- Team work is key. Everyone needs to be committed and share the same vision. This is the success mantra for any team
Question to ask ourselves - Are we willing to invest in upskilling ourselves, our teams, our groups and be patient in handling those not so good times?
Finally, the Indian women's hockey team. They showed so much promise and determination to get on the podium. They stood 4th in 1980, Moscow Olympics and now they are back in Tokyo.
What did I learn?
- One may put their best at times, but the result may become slightly unfavorable
- One should accept ones failure with dignity (if one has tried his/her best) and learn what one wants to do different the next time
- Life is generally sinusoidal in nature with peaks and troughs, one should keep riding along
I enjoyed the games thoroughly and was at times awestruck with what human limits can be.
Some things to ponder for all of us:
- Are we willing to help and support our next generation choose a career they love, are passionate about and have skill to go miles ahead?
- Are we willing to provide the tools and trainings needed to make our sportsmen and sportswomen stronger and more capable?
There is a lot to learn from an athlete. Many of there traits when imbibed can change the way we think and act in our professional lives for good.
Can't wait to see our continued success in 2024 at Paris.
All pictures used - courtesy from https://olympics.com/tokyo-2020/
