Five Keys to Success with 2008 Olympian Kim Vandenberg

 

1. Choose to be POSITIVE: You should expect to be in situations that can be challenging, and sometimes you do not have control of what happens. However, you do have control of how you react and how you manage the struggle. Choose to find the positive in whatever it is you are dealing with. Be aware of negative environments, and surround yourself with optimistic people who believe in you and your goals. Do not underestimate the power of positive thinking.

 

2. Define your GOALS: Ask yourself what exactly do you want? Focus and define your true dreams, not what other people want you to do. When you set your goals, it is important to have a plan of action to reach the end result. At UCLA, we used the SMART method of goal setting. S=specific, M=measurable, A=attainable, R=realistic and T=timely. I have always kept a journal to track my progress as a visual reminder of my goals. 

 

3. Focus on the DETAILS: In the end, little things make the big difference. Choose one or two details to focus on each day. For example, work on your head position or body awareness. Step by step, you will see improvement. There are always things you can change to become a better athlete and person, and it can get overwhelming to think of everything at once. Breaking your goals down to a couple details per day makes the process less intimidating. 

 

4. Find a BALANCE: Don't obsess over your goals. It will only create unneeded pressure. Balance your time with your family, friends and hobbies. I have always admired Natalie Coughlin for the balance in her life. I believe that is part of the reason why she is so successful. She spends time on her other passions as well as her swimming career. Balance creates stability, which produces results. 

 

5. Be THANKFUL: There are many people in your life who are there to support you: your coaches, parents, teachers, friends and even other competitors. Be thankful that you have the opportunities you have to be the best you can be with the support group to guide you. I like what Olympian Josh Davis preaches at the Mutual of Omaha Swim Clinics. He says to have an "attitude of gratitude." Appreciation goes a long way to remind you how lucky you are in life. Being thankful will help you reach your goals.