Unlock your Olympic Mindset: Shared Mental Strategies of Elite Athletes and People Living with Chronic/Persistent Pain
Introduction
Over the past few weeks, many of us have enjoyed the Olympics. Chatting to my clients/patients during the Olympics and afterwards, in my psychology and hypnotherapy clinic in both Milton Keynes and on-line; I shared the fact that some of the skills I was teaching them, to their surprise are also taught to elite athletes.
Whilst the worlds of Olympic athletes and individuals living with chronic pain might seem vastly different at first glance. One group is celebrated for their physical prowess and endurance, while the other is often overlooked despite their daily struggles. However, a common thread links these two groups: the use of psychological techniques to manage their experiences and enhance their performance or quality of life.
This blog post explores how Olympic athletes and people with chronic/persistent pain use similar psychological strategies to navigate their respective challenges.
1. Visualization and Imagery
Olympic Athletes: Visualization is a key technique used by many athletes to improve their performance. Before a race or competition, athletes often visualize every detail of their event, from the start to the finish line. This mental rehearsal helps them prepare for different scenarios and build confidence. For example, Adam Peaty, the amazing swimmer, has spoken about visualizing his races in detail, imagining himself overcoming obstacles and winning gold.
People with Chronic Pain: For those living with chronic pain, visualization can be a powerful tool for managing discomfort. By imagining a peaceful scene or a place where they feel safe and comfortable, individuals can divert their focus away from pain. This technique can help reduce the perception of pain and promote relaxation. Guided imagery sessions, where a practitioner helps direct the imagery, can be particularly beneficial.
2. Goal Setting
Olympic Athletes: Goal setting is fundamental for athletes aiming to reach the pinnacle of their sport. They set short-term and long-term goals to guide their training and track their progress. Super gymnast, Simone Biles for example, will set specific targets for each training session, season, and ultimately for her Olympic events, helping her stay motivated and focused.
People with Chronic/Persistent Pain: Similarly, setting realistic and achievable goals is crucial for those with chronic /persistent pain. These goals might involve daily activities, such as walking a certain distance, or long-term objectives like improving overall mobility. Breaking down goals into manageable steps helps maintain motivation and provides a sense of accomplishment. Celebrating small victories can significantly boost morale and encourage continued effort.
3. Mindfulness and Meditation
Olympic Athletes: Mindfulness and meditation practices are increasingly being adopted by athletes to enhance their mental game. These practices help athletes stay present, manage stress, and maintain focus during high-pressure situations. For instance, in this year’s Olympics in Paris, there is a 356Athlete365Mind Zone so the athletes can incorporate mindfulness into their routine to help them stay centred and focused during their events.
People with Chronic /Persistent Pain: Mindfulness and meditation are also valuable tools for managing chronic pain. Techniques like deep breathing, body scans, and mindful awareness can help individuals become more attuned to their bodies and reduce the stress associated with chronic pain. Studies have shown that mindfulness can decrease the intensity of pain and improve emotional well-being.
4. Positive Self-Talk
Olympic Athletes: Positive self-talk is a common practice among athletes to boost their confidence and resilience. Before and during competitions, athletes use affirmations and motivational statements to maintain a positive mindset. My favourite tennis player Serena Williams, for instance, uses positive self-talk to stay focused and confident, especially during challenging matches.
People with Chronic/ Persistent Pain: For those dealing with chronic/persistent pain, positive self-talk can counteract negative thoughts that often accompany persistent discomfort. Replacing negative statements like “I can’t handle this” with positive affirmations such as “I am strong and capable” can improve mood and coping abilities. Encouraging yourself with kind and compassionate language fosters a more positive outlook and helps manage pain more effectively.
5. Support Systems
Olympic Athletes: Athletes rely heavily on their support systems, which include coaches, teammates, family, and friends. This network provides emotional support, guidance, and motivation, helping athletes navigate the ups and downs of their careers. Many athletes often speak about the crucial role their family and coaches play in their success.
People with Chronic / Persistent Pain: Having a strong support system is equally important for those living with chronic/persistent pain. Support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can make a significant difference in managing pain and maintaining a positive outlook. Support groups, both in-person and online, offer a sense of community and understanding, helping individuals feel less isolated in their experiences.
Conclusion
Despite the apparent differences between Olympic athletes and people living with chronic pain, the psychological techniques they use to excel, and cope reveal striking similarities. Visualization, goal setting, mindfulness, positive self-talk, and robust support systems are invaluable tools for both groups. By adopting these strategies people with chronic pain can enhance their quality of life and find strength in their daily battles, much like Olympic athletes find strength in their pursuit of excellence.
I would love to know which of these strategies you use and find most helpful or if you don’t use any of these but would like to know more, then please let me know.