Authors – Vedika Jogani
A recent graduate from Ithaca College with a Master’s degree in Sports and Exercise Science, specializing in Mental Performance, Vedika Jogani is OMP’s Product and Content Manager.
While we celebrate the medal winners and their success in Paris, what about those who don’t make it to the podium?
Olympians train for years, striving to qualify, gain funding, and finally compete on the world’s biggest stage for their country.
Some may fall just shy of a medal (which is often said to be worse than finishing last), suffer an injury that ends their games early, perform below their own or external expectations or experience an embarrassing failure on the world stage.
Regardless of the setback or perceived failure, these athletes can become self-critical and lose motivation.
These feelings can linger and if athletes don’t start to process their emotions, they can also become depressed.
Here are some simple ways that athletes can overcome these feelings:
- Celebrate The Wins
Qualifying by being amongst the best in your country is no small feat.
Athletes should remind themselves of all the sacrifices and achievements they’ve made to make it to the Olympics.
Reflect on the progress they’ve made, obstacles overcome, and the dedication it took to get this far. - Rest and Process
Athletes should take time to process their emotions.
They can use a journal to express their thoughts and feelings, and use mindfulness techniques to fully acknowledge and feel emotions.
Athletes should allow themselves to experience and understand their feelings without judgment and give themselves space to heal and reflect on their journey. - Change Relationship with Failure
Athletes shouldn’t judge themselves solely based on the outcome. They should reflect on their behaviors and values displayed during the process.
Did they demonstrate perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication?
They should give themselves permission to view failure from a different perspective, focusing on personal growth and the lessons learned. - Embrace Identity
These athletes need to remember that they are more than just an athlete and should acknowledge and celebrate their other identities.
Once the games are over, they should explore interests outside of sports, strengthen relationships with family and friends, and recognize the diverse roles they play in other’s lives. Embracing these aspects can help create a more balanced and fulfilling sense of self. - Seek Help and Move Forward
Athletes should reach out to loved ones for support, to help process their emotions, and consider professional help to guide them through this challenging time.
Whether it’s talking to a sports psychologist, mental performance coach or seeking advice from a mentor, athletes should surround themselves with a supportive network can provide the encouragement and perspective needed to move forward.
Dealing with failure after the Olympics can be incredibly challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
By celebrating their achievements, processing emotions, changing relationship with failure, embracing identity, and seeking support, athletes can navigate this difficult period and emerge stronger.
Remember, your journey as an athlete is just one part of your story, and every setback is a steppingstone to greater resilience and personal development.
