How Identifying as an Athlete Improves Your Life: The Mind Body Connection at Its Best

Being an athlete allows you to go after what you want. This is why you want to be an athlete. The stories you tell yourself are the thoughts that fuel your decisions. The decisions you make every day lead to the actions that shape your life. By strengthening your identity, you can improve the trajectory of your life.

Sometimes the story you tell yourself is full of self-limiting beliefs. You can try to change each thought and emotion over time. If you want to change negative thought patterns focus on your identity. It's a shortcut that can bring about quick positive change.

Your new identity will override perceived shortcomings, and replace them with beneficial behaviors. Best of all, you will begin to exhibit these positive characteristics automatically. If you have the identity of a cat, you are not going to bark, eat bones or look for fire hydrants.

One identity which benefits every area of your life is that of an athlete. Having an athlete’s mindset makes you a healthier and better version of yourself. Here are a few reasons why.

What It Means to Be an Athlete

1. Athletes are driven. You have a desire to win and to achieve great things. You set goals and always do your best.

2. Athletes are focused and self-disciplined. You have a growth mindset, knowing that you can always get better through hard work and that hard work pays off. You have a good work ethic because you know that consistent practice leads to success.

3. Athletes find a way to make it happen no matter the challenge. You have the mental toughness to dig deep and persevere. You can overcome any obstacle because you never give up.

4. Athletes are more relaxed and content. You manage stress well, and are less likely to be depressed or anxious. Working out releases endorphins which make you feel good. This makes you calmer, happier and more even tempered.

5. Athletes are more confident. Confidence is beneficial in the workplace as well as in relationships. It makes you a better leader and a happier person.

6. Increased blood flow to the brain gives athletes cognitive advantages. You have better memory, concentration, creativity and problem-solving skills.

Life isn't always easy but being an athlete teaches you that you can do hard things. The Health Coaches at Golden Home Fitness can bring out your inner athlete. Whether you're just starting out or you need to up your game, we can help. We will put you on the right path and help you continually improve. For your free Golden Home Fitness in-person or virtual workout click here.