Be Your Own Champion

I don't normally follow sports events except when something
special is taking place like Lance Armstrong winning the
Tour de France for the 7th consecutive year. What's even
more amazing about it is his bout with testicular cancer in
1996. He was given less than a 50% chance of survival as
the cancer had metastasized and spread to his lungs and
brain. Three years later after going through an aggressive
form of chemotherapy, he went on to win his first Tour de
France!

I did a little research on this athlete and discovered that
even as a child, Lance was obsessed with details. After a
ride, he would go back to the house and write down all the
details. Now, it's a way of life for him.

For some of us, attention to details can become
overwhelming. Yet, it was this obsession that paid off big
time for Lance. His motivation, focus and detail
orientation made him a champion and someone who many look
to for inspiration in their own lives.

If we examine the attributes of his success, we can learn
several things to assist us:

First, he clearly identified his goal: winning the
race. He didn't want to come in 2nd or 3rd, he wanted
First Place and he wanted it this year.

Second, he was motivated with a strong desire to
win, no matter what. He was willing to do whatever it
took to increase his odds of winning. He really wanted to
win.

Third, his attention to detail He checked and rechecked
everything. He also tested and made adjustments
accordingly. Nothing was left to chance. He also planned
for all contingencies. This attention to detail flowed
into all aspects of his life. He got the proper nutrition,
kept his weight at the ideal, and made sure he got the
rest he needed.

Fourth, he always focused on the outcome. In his
mind, he won the race. No other outcome existed. During the
race, some of the photographers commented on his "stare".
It was like there was nothing in the world but that race
for him.

Fifth, he was persistent in his pursuit of the
goal. Everyday, he kept at it. Regardless of how much time
it took him he persevered. Even tired, cold, hot or
fatigued, he kept at it.

For some this may seem a daunting task. I guess the bottom
line would be how much do you want something. We all say we
want things to be different and yet how many would be
willing to go after it the way Lance Armstrong went after
First Place?

So the next time you think you want something, ask yourself
if you want it enough to be like Lance. If the answer is
yes, then *you* can Be The Champion in your life!