I am addicted to the Winter Olympics coverage. I am staying up way past my bedtime on a regular basis, cheering for the athletes as if I know them personally. It’s getting a bit out of hand. Thank goodness that the Olympic Games (winter or summer) only run for a handful of days every two years.
I just watched Apolo Ohno skate for the trials of the 1000 meter on the speed skating short track. He stayed in 3rd place for a good amount of time in his heat, and then made his move along the inside of the track to secure a first place finish. The commentator remarked that Ohno only pushed as much as he needed to so that he was assured a spot in the final race. “Remember,” the commentator said, “he’s got a relay leg to do tonight.”
Pacing. It’s all about the pacing. Doing what you have to do to get where you need to be. It’s a concept I’ve been thinking about a lot lately. It’s easy to wear ourselves out in the pursuit of perfection. Luckily we rarely, if ever, need to be perfect. Follow Apolo Ohno. Know what you need to do in the moment and get it done.
The photo above depicts Apolo Ohno at the head of the pack. It was taken by Wolfgang Rattay of REUTERS.
Christa Avampato 