A few months ago, I followed some meditation groups on Social Media to read about others’ experiences, share knowledge and learn more.
In one of the groups, someone shared a conversation exchange she had with her then 4-year old niece who just got a shot (vaccine). She asked her if it hurt and her response was:
“I didn't cry because only my arm hurt while the rest of my body was ok.”
It was such an innocent, mindful response that she sounded like a peak performer to me. You see, a peak performer acknowledges pain, hardships and defeat. But just like that child who knows the pain in her arm is temporary even though it did sting, a peak performer always gives more focus on things other than this pain.
This is not to say that you do not feel bad or have no regrets about the things you could have done better. A peak performer knows that defeat itself is not the focal point of the experience but the lessons that come with it.
Moreover, there are other areas in life such as your family, teammates, coaches, training and new opportunities that need more attention other than that single failure. The rest is okay.
So ask yourself today: “What does hurt and what are the areas of my life which continue to be okay in spite of it?”