Small But Mighty: Ireland’s Olympic Triumphs

“After the routine I was happy – I wasn’t thinking about medals. When the score came up I was proud of that score because it was mine and I wasn’t thinking of the podium at all I was just thinking I’ve done my job and I feel like that’s where the main emotions came from today.”

Ryan McClenaghan, Irish Gold Medallist, Pommel Horse-Men, 2024 Summer Olympics

When it comes to the Olympics, my home country, Ireland isn’t known for it’s prowess.

Yes, we’ve had athletes who have delivered special moments over the years but we are a small nation by population with less resources and our expectations when it comes to medal winning has always been lower than our neighbours and bigger countries.

But this year, our athletes are making waves and capturing hearts – excelling in events that have historically been beyond our reach. For example, the Pommel Horse and Men’s Swimming.

The success of the athletes got me thinking about the power of perseverance, adaptability, and enjoyment. They are a testament to how much can be achieved when we dare to step outside our comfort zones and push the boundaries of what we believe possible. Three things come to mind:

1. Belief and Determination: Top athletes have shown that belief in oneself and a relentless pursuit of excellence can lead to extraordinary results. It’s a reminder for all of us to trust in our abilities and remain determined in the face of challenges.
2. Community and Support: Behind every medal is a team of coaches, family, and supporters who have contributed to the athletes’ success. It highlights the value of community and support in reaching our goals.
3. Enjoying the moment and giving your best: There is no doubt that winning a medal is the peak for the athletes but…more than ever the language of these elite performers is showing the growing interest in ‘being in the moment’ and ‘enjoying the process’ as approaches that enhance their performance and experience.

This week, perhaps consider these questions:

• What personal goals have you been hesitant to pursue because they seem out of reach?
• How can you apply the lessons of perseverance and adaptability to your current challenges?
• Who are the key people in your life that you can collaborate with to reach new heights?
• Today, can you spend more time in appreciation and gratitude regardless of the situation? Where can you enjoy the process more?

If nothing else, the Olympics, in it’s purest expression is an opportunity to be inspired to push past perceived limits in your life and seize opportunities that once seemed unattainable.

Even the small can achieve mighty things.

Best,

Shane

The Inner Edge Podcast – Most Recent Episode:

Ep 190: Unhappy about being unhappy.

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