Motivation is a Funny Thing

We are weeks away from the summer Olympics and I’m so excited. My love of the Olympics started the summer of 1996. I was a clueless kid from Missouri who happened to be spending the summer with my aunt in Athens, Georgia. That year was the Centennial Olympic Games, and the torch relay came through Athens on its way to Atlanta. I got to go to work with my aunt that day and watched the parade from her downtown office. All the pomp and circumstance were fascinating – and I couldn’t get enough of the games that summer.

Fast-forward 28 years, and I still can’t get enough of them. I especially like the less popular events. I got hooked on Rhythmic Gymnastics that summer. I thought the ribbons were the coolest; and I was amazed they never got tangled up as the gymnasts were flipping around. Now, I think because those events seem more within reach of an average person.  We can’t all be Katie Ledecky or Simone Biles. But maybe we have a shot at the archery, or kayaking – natural talent mixed with a healthy dose of discipline. Haven’t we all thought we could be a sweeper for curling during the winter Olympics?

The lead up to the Olympics is motivational for me. While I’ll never be an Olympic athlete, the Olympics inspire me to change up my exercise routine. You pretended to walk a balance beam as a kid, right? When was the last time you practiced your balance? Here’s an easy exercise – stand on one foot while brushing your teeth or washing your hands. Ever watched Race Walking? Those people walk faster than I jog. Try it for 30-60 seconds the next time you’re out for a walk – remember you have to keep one foot on the ground at all times.

What motivates you in your physical activities? We all get in ruts, so try using motivation from the Olympics to change it up. You’ll feel a little better while you cheer on our athletes, and maybe they’ll inspired you – like me –  to try a new activity!

Sara Cassells
Events Manager
The Daily Mile USA