Recently, Diana Nyad set a new record for swimming from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage. Diana is also 64 years old. Diana succeeded where many others have failed, even when youth was on their side. So what was Diana’s winning formula?

 

diana

 

“It’s not so much the physical. To my mind all of us … we mature emotionally  … and we get stronger mentally because we have a perspective on what this life is all about.”
-Diana Nyad

Diana is highlighting the importance of having trained and developed a winning mind. Just like we train our muscles to grow stronger, we also need to train our brains. Mental skill training is no longer taking a back seat when it comes to sport and business; these individuals are learning to prioristise and make time in their schedules for these types of activities.

So, what insights can we gain from Diana – (with a twist from Han off course)?

Learning and Reframing Obstacles

It took Diana five attempts to break the record from Cuba to Florida over a time span of 35 years; that is a lot of swallowed sea water and a long time to pursue a goal. Diana’s formula and mantra? “Never, never, never give up”. Diana learnt from each attempt, and used them as stepping stones to grow, and create future success.

My mantra from 2.5 years of hip surgery and rehab? “Change is guaranteed” and “It is the tough days that make me strong”. It we view obstacles with the knowledge that they make us stronger, and that the pain or suffering will pass, we begin to reframe these experiences and gain an appreciation from our setbacks. The result? We are then better equipped to deal with future challenges life will throw our way – that is also a guarantee.

 

Surrounding Yourself with a Strong Team

While an ocean swim may seem like an individual and solitary sport, the team surrounding Diana were absolutely critical to her success. From divers clearing a path so jellyfish wouldn’t sting her, to making sure she was continuously fed, having a strong team around you ensures that mentally you go the distance. Another brilliant example is from Joann Formosa, who won gold in the Para Equestrian in London last year. Joann counted 87 people directly involved in helping her win that medal, and that doesn’t include the countless others behind the scenes.

Having a strong support network is a key component of mental health with research demonstrating the happiest people ALL feel social connected and supported. These networks don’t necessarily have to be large and aren’t judged by how many friends you have on facebook or connections on Linkd In! A better indicator is the strength of these networks. Are your support networks genuine and meaningful?

It is also handy to keep in mind that while other people are the key to your success, you are also the key to their success. Through our relationships, we support each other during hardships, and celebrate our triumphs. We laugh together, and we cry together. It is these bonds that provide a richness and meaning to our lives. I encourage you to truly value and nourish your support networks.

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go the distance, go together”

African Proverb

diana and support

 

Sourcing Inner Motivation

Diana was “really focused on why I want to do it.” She had removed her ego, wasn’t worried about what other people would think, and had internalised her motivation. She knew why she was climbing the mountain.

When times get tough, the weather is freezing, and life is tainted grey, having an internal motivation, an internal drive and passion to succeed, will help you weather the storms. Combine your internal motivation with your internal compass, and you will be well and truly on your way. Blue sky will be waiting for you on the other side.

 

Getting off your butt and taking action

Yes we need goals, yes we need motivation, and yes we need a team. However, if we don’t follow this up with action steps, small or large, chances are life will pass you by. You need to walk the talk.

Committing to goals, telling other people what your plans are, setting reminders in your phone, these are all great steps to ensure you follow-up with action. So, what action steps are you taking today for your mental training?

 

walking the talk

 

Until next time,

Ride safe, ride with a smile, ride in the moment,

Han