Greatness is finding your natural talent, fueling it with passion, planting it in well-nourished soil, and toiling in the garden until it breaks through the earth and reaches for the stars.
Happy Sunday Friends! Hope that you are fired up and ready for a great week! I am fired up by the Olympic Games. This newsletter is titled, Growing into Greatness and these amazing athletes have spent at least 4 years, and for many a lifetime toiling and perfecting their talents, and are now reaching for the stars in Paris.
My excitement for the Olympic Games was dimmed because our track legend, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce withdrew. I remember a similar sense of sadness 4 years ago when Simone Biles had to take a break to preserve her health. Wisdom is knowing when to go full speed ahead to achieve your goal and when to step back and protect your mental and physical health so that you can fight another day. This is true whether you are pursuing an olympic medal or making a major life decision, such as going after that promotion at work, or deciding whether to head straight to college or spend a few years working before pursuing your degree.
With the absence of Shelly-Ann, my three favorite athletes are Simone Biles, Ilona Maher, and Julien Alfred. These athletes are not only excelling in their respective sports but are also blazing trails in personal growth, advocacy, and empowerment. Their journeys to Olympic success are powerful reminders that greatness is not just about winning medals but also about overcoming obstacles, embracing one's true self, and making a positive impact on the world.
Simone Biles, the world-renowned gymnast, has been a beacon of excellence and inspiration for years. Her incredible talent and groundbreaking performances have redefined gymnastics. However, her journey to greatness is also marked by her courage to prioritize mental health. At the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Simone made headlines when she chose to step back from several events to focus on her well-being. This bold decision sparked a global conversation about the importance of mental health, particularly for athletes who face immense pressure. Simone's advocacy for mental health has empowered countless individuals to seek help and prioritize their well-being. Her message is clear: greatness is not just about physical prowess but also about mental resilience and self-awareness. Gather the family and watch the documentary, Simone Biles Rising, which is available on Netflix.
Friends, if you are not familiar with Ilona Maher, you are in for a treat. She is a superstar - olympic medalist, incredibly creative, and a social media sensation.
“All body types are beautiful and worthy. Take a look at all the body types on display. From the smallest gymnast to the tallest volleyball player, to rugby player, to shot-putter to sprinter. All body types can do amazing things. Truly see yourselves in these athletes and know that you can do it too.” Ilona Maher
Ilona Maher, a force to be reckoned with in rugby, is not only known for her incredible skills on the field but also for her unwavering commitment to body positivity. Ilona has used her platform to challenge traditional beauty standards and advocate for self-acceptance. In one of her many motivational videos, she talked about wearing her hair down to cover up her large shoulders. She reminds women that big shoulders are beautiful, learn to love them and recognize how powerful they are. Her dedication to empowering women through body positivity reminds us that greatness is about embracing who we are and using our voices to uplift others. In Paris, Ilona's presence on the rugby field is a testament to her strength, resilience, and commitment to inspiring others to love themselves unapologetically.
Julien Alfred, the talented sprinter from Saint Lucia, has captured the world's attention with her incredible speed and determination. Her journey to the Olympics has been a testament to her hard work, discipline, and unwavering focus. Julien's dedication to her sport is matched by her commitment to making a difference in her community. She has been an advocate for education and youth empowerment, using her platform to inspire young people to pursue their dreams and overcome adversity. Julien's story is a powerful reminder that greatness is not just about personal achievements but also about giving back and creating positive change. Her journey to Olympic success is a testament to her resilience and determination to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Watch the entire island of St. Lucia celebrate Julien’s win.
Inspired by the incredible journeys of the international athletes, here are 7 principles of greatness.
1. Embrace Your Authentic Self
2. Cultivate a Growth Mindset
3. Prioritize Mental and Physical Well-being
4. Set Clear Goals and Stay Focused
5. Cultivate Resilience and Perseverance
6. Make a Positive Impact on Others
7. Celebrate Progress and Enjoy the Journey
The paths to greatness are as unique as the individuals who embark on them. As we celebrate the achievements of the amazing athletes whose pursuit of excellence has led them to the Olympic Games, let us also celebrate the values they embody. Simone Biles, Ilona Maher, and Julien Alfred exemplify the principles of authenticity, resilience, and empowerment. Greatness is not just about achieving your goals but also about inspiring and uplifting others along the way. We all have the power to roar to our own beat and grow into our greatness.
Enjoy the Olympic Games and have a blessed week!
