Let the (Mental Skills) Games Begin: Summer Olympics - Paris 2024

Ever since I was a child, one of my favorite sporting events to watch is the Olympics.  I have always found excitement and inspiration in watching athletes from all over the world compete in different sports.  I also enjoy learning about an athlete’s personal story: how they started in their sport, how they train, and obstacles they have experienced and overcome to compete at a high level.

As I watch the 2024 Summer Olympics in France this year, I have decided to tally each reference to mental skills that I hear during coverage of the games. Examples of what I will be listening for include: imagery and visualization, mindfulness and meditation, self-talk, goals, routines, focus, confidence, and motivation. I'll be sharing my tallies when the games conclude, following the closing ceremonies in August.

I encourage anyone else who watches the Olympics this summer to do the same! Together, let's make the connection of the importance of developing mental skills along with physical skills in sport and performance.

Let the (Mental Skills) games begin!