Monday Morning Boost: Chari Hawkins’ Olympic Vision
I first met Olympian Chari Hawkins and her now husband CJ O’Neal when they were students at Utah State University. Both were also track and field athletes. Our friendship began when I had the opportunity to mentor CJ as he was studying business and marketing.
From that time I could see the hopeful desire of Chari that was fueling her clear vision to compete on the Olympic stage, a vision that has come to pass as she has competed on the world’s biggest sporting stage at the Summer Olympics in Paris.
Chari’s path to the Olympics was anything but smooth. Despite being an outstanding athlete at Utah State, she had to fight through injuries, personal challenges, and the intense pressure of competing at the highest level. At 33, an age considered late in an athlete’s career, she finally made it to her first Olympics–a testament to her unwavering vision. Chari’s vision wasn’t just about making it to the Olympics; it was about pushing the boundaries of what she believed was possible for herself.
Her journey as a heptathlete is a powerful testament to the principles of intentional leadership, particularly the importance of Vision, Strategy, and Promise.
CLARIFYING THE VISION: SEEING BEYOND THE CHALLENGES
Chari Hawkins’ journey to the Olympics was driven by a vision she held close to her heart for years. The vision of competing at the Olympics didn’t just motivate her–it defined her path. For Chari, this wasn’t just a dream; it was a guiding light that directed her actions and decisions.
ACTION STEP: Reflect on your own vision. What is the “Olympic dream” in your life? Define it clearly and let it guide your daily actions.
CREATING THE STRATEGY: TRAINING FOR THE IMPOSSIBLE
Reaching the Olympics required Chari to craft a meticulous strategy. After missing out on the Tokyo Olympics, she doubled down on her training, focusing on areas that needed improvement while enhancing her strengths. This strategic approach was crucial in overcoming the setbacks she faced along the way.
ACTION STEP: Develop a clear strategy to achieve your vision. Identify the areas where you need to improve and focus your efforts there, while also playing to your strengths.
LIVING THE PROMISE: PERSEVERANCE AMIDST ADVERSITY
During the Paris Olympics, Chari faced unexpected challenges in the high jump. Despite the setback, she honored her promise to herself to give her all, regardless of the outcome. This commitment to perseverance exemplifies the power of keeping promises, especially when the going gets tough.
ACTION STEP: Make a promise to yourself to persevere through challenges. When faced with setbacks, remember this promise and push forward with determination.
RISE WITH A SMILE
Chari’s journey to the Olympics is a powerful reminder that we can rise with a smile as we climb the mountains on our own Olympic journey. Whether our mountains be physical challenges, personal goals, or life’s unexpected trials, we can rise with a clear vision, a focused strategy, and an unwavering desire to live our promise to persevere. We can each rise above our challenges and reach our greatest heights.
Chari’s incredible example of leading herself and empowering others on their journey inspired me to write this little gem five years ago when she was working towards the 2020 Olympics.
RISE WITH A SMILE
By Les Patterson
When you stumble and fall
Rise with a smile of determination.
When you compete well but not quite well enough
Rise with a smile hoping to do better.
When you have earned a spot on the medal stand
Rise with a smile of hope for those striving to also get there.
When you stand on top of the podium
Rise with a smile of gratitude for the help along the way.
When you contemplate the journey ahead
Rise with a smile determined to enjoy each step.
❤️❤️❤️
Chari’s incredible example of lifting and encouraging others has been a consistent inspiration to me for several years. I’m honored to be her friend.
Love you Chari!
And I love you, friend!
Have a great Monday! Thanks for letting me share.
Les
p.s. Take 13 minutes today to rise with a smile as you create your Olympic Visions!
PROFILE PHOTO: Chari Hawkins at the 2024 World Indoor Championships. Source: Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chari_Hawkins
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