Common Traits of Consistently Improving Athletes

by Marilyn Chychota McDonald

I have the pleasure of asking several athletes in different points in their development across a number of sports a lot of questions. A few things are consistent in the ones who continue to improve and do well.

It takes a long time to get good! That means consistent work over a really long time. They remember that they are in this for the long haul and there will be a lot of ups and downs. They all put in persistent work with a good sense of humor and a real passion for what they are doing.

They all display attention to detail without getting too wrapped up in the wrong things. Day to day they make small choices in line with their goals. They are strict and fussy about what they know they need to do to keep improving. But, they aren't so wrapped up in things that will tear them down in the wrong direction.

They exhibit pure focus when it matters and the ability to let go at all other times. They know when to turn it on and when to let go; they adapt and roll.

They look at their profiles and have the confidence to make change, but have 100% belief in knowing what works for them. They really only need a very small change to see a benefit. If they do something over and over again for long enough, they know they are bound to get good at it.

They all have love what they are doing. A true passion for the act of what they are doing sees them through rough patches and gives them pure satisfaction when they reach their goals. They are truly doing what they do for the pure love of it, even if that doesn't make sense to anyone else.

Do you see similar traits in yourself? Can you take that attributes of the best and apply them in your own life? If so, there's no reason you can't make 2013 a breakout year.

Marilyn is now accepting applications for 2013 coaching slots. You can contact her via e-mail.
Marilyn McDonald has been in elite sport since the age of 9, from show jumping to cycling and triathlon. Competing on an international stage in all three sports with an Ironman title, several podiums and state championships in cycling, Marilyn works with all distance and level of triathletes and cyclists. From beginners to elites; short course, bike racing, stage racing and long course triathlon, she has guided several athletes to the podium and to Hawaii qualifications.