Early this month Usain Bolt ran his last competitive race in London, and to much dismay, limped over the finish line with an injury. Yet this rather disappointing end to a sparking career has done nothing to dent the worldwide enthusiasm for the man that has become an international superstar, and is credited with ‘saving the sport of athletics’ from being engulfed by the recent drugs saga. He commands respect and admiration from almost everyone and it is interesting to reflect on how he has grown into such an iconic figure.
During the World Championships I watched him walk out onto the track, past the hedgehog mascot with all his fellow competitors. While his peers retained a single minded focus on the task, Bolt had a light hearted exchange with the mascot. I was amazed that he could keep his focus and concentration while engaging with the world around him. Bolt manages to display not only exceptional talent and ability but retains a playful humility and real connection with those around him.
For many of us when we are most stressed and required to perform, we may become detached and internally focused. This blocking out of the outside world can aid concentration but may also appear to others as disengaged, aloof and self-obsessed. We would do well to draw lessons from Bolt who appreciates that talent and success are not enough to gain support from others.
What do others see when you are under pressure?
When do you tend to disengage from those you need to be connected to?
How can you retain a more light hearted approach when times are tough?
During the World Championships I watched him walk out onto the track, past the hedgehog mascot with all his fellow competitors. While his peers retained a single minded focus on the task, Bolt had a light hearted exchange with the mascot. I was amazed that he could keep his focus and concentration while engaging with the world around him. Bolt manages to display not only exceptional talent and ability but retains a playful humility and real connection with those around him.
For many of us when we are most stressed and required to perform, we may become detached and internally focused. This blocking out of the outside world can aid concentration but may also appear to others as disengaged, aloof and self-obsessed. We would do well to draw lessons from Bolt who appreciates that talent and success are not enough to gain support from others.
What do others see when you are under pressure?
When do you tend to disengage from those you need to be connected to?
How can you retain a more light hearted approach when times are tough?
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