More than a stage for the world’s athletic prowess, the Olympics, like no other venue, is where the impossible is possible. And in my mind, it all boils down to one thing - the power of believing. Call it confidence, mental toughness, the ability to race or positive thinking. Essentially, it is an athlete’s unwavering belief that he or she is going to win a race, nail a routine or perform to perfection.
Monday at the Olympics provided the perfect illustration. On the one hand you had the U.S. women’s gymnastic team faltering in their preliminary competition. You could just see the doubt creep across their faces. Juxtaposed was the men’s 4x100M free relay.
Jason Lezak’s swim was utterly amazing. Despite diving into the pool a half second and more than half of a body length behind world-record holder Alain Bernard, the 32-year-old, three-time Olympian somehow summoned the drive to out touch the Frenchman at the wall. There’s no other explanation than in the end Lezak wanted it and believed, and I mean truly believed, he could do it. (In a New York Times interview, Lezak did admit to a momentary lapse of confidence during the race, but during that same race, he regained his conviction.)
What sets athletes like Tiger Woods, Roger Federer and Michael Phelps apart is their certainty in their abilities. During this Olympics, Phelps has shown it time and time again, and it’s what makes Phelps so remarkable.
So as you sit down with your swimmer to watch Phelps's unprecedented performance and you point out all the little things that make him special like his great turns, quick start and spot-on technique, don’t forget to mention the real difference – his undeniable belief that he will win.
For me, that’s been the take home lesson from his performance.
