Michael Phelps on Sacrifice, Learning from Mistakes
U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps took home eight historic gold medals in Beijing. One of the reasons Phelps attracts such a large fan base is his likeable, down-to-earth approach to life. Here are three ways Phelps maintains a healthy life balance in spite of the rigors of being an international sports icon.
1. On Sacrifice
“Growing up in high school, I wasn’t hanging out with friends every day or on the weekends. Doing normal high-school things was something I was willing to give up.”
Phelps stepped out and devoted himself to a seemingly unachievable goal. Hard work does in fact pay off, and by applying your talents and avoiding the temptation to divert along the way, you’ll reach your own podium.
2. Learning from Mistakes
“Having my DUI happen was a learning experience. Being in a college environment, it’s my job to try and help make sure people don’t make the same mistake I made. I’ve learned so much, just from having an experience like that, and I think I’ve grown up more from that experience than from before.”
Much like your own, Phelps’ life isn’t without setbacks, failings and challenges. Following his DUI arrest at 19, Phelps visited several elementary schools, warning children about the importance of making good choices. By accepting responsibility for his actions, Michael learned from his mistake and made the best of an unfortunate situation.
3. Learn to Love the Unknown
“[After swimming,] I don’t know what I want to do. I definitely want to stay in sports, but I’m not sure what field I want to go into. And no, I’m not dreading it. There’s going to be a time when I’m ready to retire—but definitely not yet. ”
It’s easy to get caught up thinking about, and planning for, the future. Realize that it’s all right not to have every aspect of your life charted out—enjoy the present for what it is and approach it without fear. After all, what’s the point of working hard to enjoy the future if you’re a neurotic wreck when you get there? Exactly.
From Seeds of success a wonderful post on taking responsibility for you own life and choices you make
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