The Olympics are over. If you were like my husband and me, you were glued to the television each night to cheer on the athletes from all over the world. I saw one athlete throw down his medal in disgust during the awards ceremony. Yet there were others who graciously congratulated the gold medal winner even though he or she had coveted that position.
We can learn from these athletes. Would you want to do business with that individual who was disrespectful to the gold medal winner and stormed off the stage? As I watched the words and actions of the athletes, I got a glimpse into their personalities. What values were important to them? How did their actions reflect their views on life? Here are some examples from the Olympics that can be applied to business as well.
Passion
Most Olympic athletes have pursued a dream since childhood. They are passionate about what they do. American cyclist Kristin Armstrong started out in triathlons, yet she never gave up her love of cycling. After winning a cycling race in Boise, she decided to train for the Olympics. When you are passionate about something, it doesn't feel like work. When you are passionate, the creativity and inspiration flows. What are you passionate about?Outlook
When you look at Michael Phelps, you know he has a positive outlook on life. He focuses on his best events. He doesn't dwell on what he did wrong but thinks about what he did right. He doesn't ponder what he can't do, only what he wants to do. He doesn't see impossibility, he sees opportunity. How do you handle the challenges that come your way? Do you look for positive aspects in your life? Do you choose your attitude or let the current circumstances determine your outlook?Teamwork
When the U.S. men's swim team won its gold medal in the 400 medley, each swimmer was praising the others for their contributions to the team. Everyone did his part to win the gold. Team projects are also a big part of today's business environment. Are you someone who wants to take credit for a group project? Do you drop hints to the boss that it was 'your' idea or your extra overtime that brought the project to completion? What kind of team member are you?Graciousness
As you watch the Olympic athletes, you can tell they have been taught how to be gracious to the winning team. They stand at attention when another country's national anthem is being played. They shake hands and they smile. There are times in business when the contract is given to a competing company, the promotion goes to a colleague or the special project is awarded to someone else. Can you graciously accept loss? Are you someone who will congratulate another and share in that individual's success?Pride
What I love best about the Olympics is seeing the athletes take pride in their accomplishments. When American gymnasts Nastia Liukin and Shawn Johnson were interviewed after winning their medals, they talked about how hard they worked to get there. They were proud of each other and the U.S. gymnastics team. Do you take time to bask in the deliciousness of your accomplishments each day? Are you proud of what you've done?What do your words and actions say about you? Your values can be an asset in business - as well as life. Use them to go for the gold.
©2008 Professional Image Management
If you would like to use this article in your newsletter or blog, you may do so. Please include our credit information: Written by Juanita Ecker, Professional Image Management www.professionalimagemanagement.com. © Copyright 2008. I would also appreciate it if you would send us a copy for our files.
Juanita Ecker, president of Professional Image Management, is a business etiquette and
international protocol consultant. She can be reached by phone at (518) 279-9388 or online at www.professionalimagemanagement.com.