Several years ago, a couple of friends asked me if I’d like to join them on a run. Now, both of these friends were what I’d consider runners, and I, well, was not. Sure, I had run from time to time. Even participated in the occasional 5k. But a runner? Nope. However, I agreed to join them as I was excited about the opportunity to share this experience with them, and hoping that running with friends would motivate—er, distract—me from the pain I was sure to endure.
During this run, one of my friends who happens to be a long-distance runner, referred to me as an athlete. “A what?” I thought. Not me. I had never played team sports before, unless you’re counting recreational soccer at age 8 or the neighborhood swim team at age 10, but I stayed active. I went to the gym fairly regularly. I walked. Even jogged a bit. Often chased around a toddler. But an athlete?
But he was right. Athletes are not just those people speed-skating around a track in the Olympics. Or the ones who defy gravity in the snowboarding or ski jumping competitions. Yes, these athletes are incredible and have nurtured a talent and skill that I will admire from my couch cheering them on across the world. But, what I’ve learned is that many of us have the traits of an athlete in us if only we take a look and notice.
To break it down, following you’ll find 9 traits of an athlete. Like me, you just might find yourself checking off each one, realizing that this title is one you can add to your profile.
Athletes have a desire to improve. It all starts with a spark. A desire to get better at something. A desire to make a change that will lead to great achievements. To better yourself. Yep, it starts with that desire.
Athletes are goal setters. Taking a moment to think about goals, defining them and taking that first step toward them is the next step. Want to improve your physical health and wellness by starting an intentional walking practice? Set that goal and get started!
Athletes create a plan of action. You know where you want to go and what you want to achieve, so how do you plan to get there? By breaking it down into small, manageable steps, one walk at a time.
Athletes make a commitment to themselves. Consistency is key when it comes to making progress, so making that commitment to practice regularly, no matter how you feel from day to day is honoring that commitment to yourself.
Athletes find motivation. This may not inherently be easy, but athletes find ways to stay motivated when getting up and going is tough. Whether it’s high-fiving yourself in the mirror, laying out your workout clothes the night before, or listening to a coach to push you through, finding what works to keep you going is key.
Athletes learn how to overcome setbacks. Illness, injuries, and complicated schedules are inevitable, but it’s how you bounce back from them that matters. Give yourself the grace to know that “things” happen, but you don’t have to let them derail your journey.
Athletes grow themselves wholly. Athletes don’t just focus on the physical needs they must accomplish to get their desired results, but also pay attention to their mental growth. Learning from others, reflecting on how far you’ve come, and taking the time to rest and breathe are all ways to ensure your mental health is in check.
Athletes invest in relationships. No one can do it alone, so find a community, a coach, or a team who will be there to support you when times are tough, or you need a little extra boost to get through those last few miles.
Athletes celebrate the journey. Taking note of the small wins and watching them add up is part of an athlete’s journey. You won’t always be making huge leaps and bounds, but when you see all the things you do add up, those small victories will become great victories!
So next time you look in the mirror, take a moment to recognize the athlete you see reflected back at you. The word athlete is not just reserved for those elite in their field. It’s a word that defines your desire, your commitment, and your follow-through to be a better you. The word athlete defines you.
Written by Erin Stolle, 99 Walks Content Manager
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