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Nourishing Relationships

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7 Lessons the Olympics Can Teach Boomers


This summer, billions of fans watched athletes from around the world compete 
in the Beijing Olympics. Even with political controversy and global tensions 
running rampant, these diverse games reflected the delicate balance between 
reality and entertainment. For many Sandwiched Boomers, the Olympics satisfied 
the yearning for distraction from immediate concerns about economic instability 
and caring for a family-in-flux.

The Games provided color, drama and a broad demonstration of excellence. In addition 
to news about the winners and venues, information from Beijing went well beyond who 
was winning and losing gold medals. Here are 6 tips about how to incorporate the 
deeper meaning of the Olympics into your life: 

1.	Find your unique passion and cultivate it. There were hundreds of events at the 
Olympics, each representing a specific activity that athletes had chosen to pursue. 
They ranged from rhythmic gymnastics to javelin throwing, from fencing to sailing, 
from synchronized swimming to boxing. What brings you joy and the ability to be fully 
engaged? Recognize the creativity and excitement that emerge as you follow your dreams.  

2.	Excellence comes with hard work and practice. Learning about the training schedules 
of Olympic athletes reminds us that accomplishments don't come easy. Repetition is the 
handmaiden of success. Set long-term goals as well as realistic and incremental steps to 
reach them. Give yourself credit when you achieve an objective and, as you set the next one, 
aim to move ever closer toward your ultimate goal. Strive for your personal best - and remember 
the most important competitor you have is actually you.

3.	Expect to fail sometimes. And when you do, pick yourself up and start over again. 
Every athlete who has made it into Olympic competition has suffered injury and disappointment 
along the way - but that has not been the end of the quest. They know that they can learn more 
from failure than success. You, too, can treat your setbacks as a teaching tool. And as you do, 
you will become more resilient and adaptable.

4.	Be a good sport. As we have told our children, good sportsmanship is an integral part 
of athletic competition. Be a generous winner and a gracious looser - acknowledge the efforts 
of others who are in the contest with you. Think about teamwork and how you can operate together 
to accomplish your goals. Cooperation can be an important adjunct to competition even with the 
goal of outperforming others.

5.	Relish the support that comes from those who care about you. Individual athletes depend on 
an entourage of people assisting them - coaches, trainers, family, friends, sponsors and teammates. 
As you work toward your own goals, the cheering section may be more limited - family, friends, 
teachers, support groups. But, whatever the size, accept the encouragement. Function as a team 
and be available to help sustain others when they need it. Athletes talk about the Olympic village 
and see themselves as part of that community. Who makes up your community? 

6.	Explore other cultures. With its symbol of five interlinking rings, the Olympics celebrate 
the unity of the games while honoring individual nationalities. Athletes pay tribute to each 
other by trading pins with those from other countries. China has a population of one and a third 
billion and is composed of over 50 distinct ethnic groups - all represented in the show of diversity 
and solidarity at the opening and closing ceremonies. Learn more about people who are different 
from you. This doesn't necessarily mean travel to exotic places - it could just be a bus ride to 
another part of town. You will be enriched by your openness to those who do not share your 
history and experiences. 

7.	Enjoy your successes. Did you observe the Olympic athletes when they stood on the winners' 
platforms with their medals, listening to their national anthems? Their pride and emotionality 
were palpable. Reward yourself when you reach a significant target and savor the feelings of 
power that come from your achievement. You deserve it.

As you think back over the spectacle of the Beijing Olympics, don't be seduced into 
remaining a spectator. Jump into the game of life and become a winner yourself.


© 2008, Her Mentor Center

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