Olympic Qualities for Chronic Disease

Olympic Gold! 

I don’t know about you, but in the past weeks I’ve watched more Olympics than in my entire life! The 2024 Paris games were so exciting they literally kept me on the edge of my seat! 

As I reflect on the deeper meaning of the games, I realize the significance is far beyond just fun entertainment. As a person living with chronic disease (Sjögren’s Disease & endometriosis), it seems there’s much wisdom to gain from the Olympics that can help us to not only live, but thrive together with our persistent conditions. 

The Olympic motto Citus, Altius, Fortius-Communiter is translated to Faster, Higher, Stronger-Together. Interestingly, in 2021 the International Olympic Committee added the word Together to emphasize the power of unity in the games. The three Olympic values are: Excellence, Respect, and Friendship. Landing a spot on the podium is the iconic illustration of these foundations.

While most of us (chronic disease or not) probably aren’t going to be throwing a shot put anytime soon, there’s much insight to gain from the mental, and physical grit necessary for these athletes to perform at their highest potential. Likewise, our circumstances might be different, but the concepts are the same, as we must also possess courage, and determination to successfully navigate our diseases. Many of us can feel as if we are endlessly circling a track, jumping hurdle after hurdle. 

We must remember that the mindset required to achieve Olympic excellence is often overshadowed by the steep physical obstacles one must conquer. However, I think the mind is where the games are ultimately won or lost; and this can equally be said for those of us with chronic illness.

Remember that the shear difference between gold, and silver might only be a fraction of a second; not merely much difference at all, but what does it take to be the winner? The individual who arises from behind the pack to victory? 

The champion is confident, and expects to get gold each, and every time they compete. This is exactly the attitude we need to overcome the difficulties in our own lives. 

Ultimately, it’s confidence that fuels an elevated performance, whether on the Olympic stage, or standing in the kitchen trying to prepare a meal. Both of these examples are pushing the individual to be the very best version of themselves.   

Many athletes must overcome barriers before even making it to the games; like those who must endure walking hours every day just to get to a gym in order to train. That amount of sacrifice, motivation, and resilience is truly mindboggling! As sufferers of chronic disease, our obstructions might be physical like debilitating fatigue, and pain; or could be getting the doctor to listen to us, or struggling to pay for needed medications. 

So, what does this all mean for those of us trying to achieve greatness, or rather a version of gold in our own lives? Although most of us will have to be content with not achieving a medal, we can still incorporate winning Olympic qualities in our everyday living to elevate our own success, and happiness despite chronic disease. 

Here are ten Olympic qualities that can help you live a happier, healthy, and peaceful life alongside chronic illness: 

BE:



Confident

Resilient

Motivated

Disciplined

Focused

Open to Learning

Adaptive to Stress

Hopeful

Respectful to Yourself

United with Others

Thank you for reading, and please be well!

If you want to learn more about me visit www.rebeccahosey.com