To succeed at the highest level, athletes must consistently produce quality training that optimizes both physical and psychological readiness while minimizing the risks of injury and burnout. However, what is often overlooked is that elite athletes, despite their extraordinary accomplishments, are still human. They face the stresses of everyday life and major life events just like anyone else.
At the pinnacle of competition, phenomenal psychological resilience is not just beneficial—it’s essential. A key differentiator among the world’s best athletes is their ability to use adversity as a stepping stone for growth. This process, known as posttraumatic growth, involves achieving psychological development that enhances resilience and performance, often exceeding pre-trauma levels.
What Is Posttraumatic Growth?
Posttraumatic growth refers to positive psychological change that arises from adversity and challenges, enabling individuals to reach higher levels of functioning and facilitating personal growth.
As humans, we often hold core beliefs about the world’s predictability and controllability. These beliefs guide our behavior and provide a sense of order and understanding. However, highly stressful life events, such as a global pandemic, can disrupt these foundational beliefs. The suddenness and intensity of these events can metaphorically shake us to our core, much like an earthquake.
The Impact of COVID-19
COVID-19 exemplifies such an event, forcing individuals worldwide to reevaluate their lives and assumptions. As we grappled with uncertainty, isolation, and significant disruptions, many of us experienced profound psychological stress. Yet, within this turmoil lies the opportunity for growth.
Rebuilding our “assumptive world” in the aftermath of a highly stressful event creates the potential for posttraumatic growth. By reflecting on how we wish to rebuild our lives in light of changed circumstances, we can develop adaptive beliefs that prepare us for future challenges. This process often unveils new characteristics and strengths, which can redefine our understanding of ourselves and our capabilities.
The Five Dimensions of Growth
Posttraumatic growth commonly manifests in five key areas:
- Appreciation of Life
Adversity often fosters a deeper gratitude for the simple joys and precious moments in life. - Relationships with Others
Challenging times can strengthen our bonds, fostering empathy, connection, and a renewed sense of support. - Personal Strength
Surviving adversity often reveals inner strength, resilience, and the capacity to overcome future challenges. - New Possibilities
A fresh perspective can lead to the discovery of new opportunities and paths previously overlooked. - Spiritual or Existential Growth
Reflecting on life’s meaning and purpose can lead to profound personal and spiritual transformation.
Finding Your New Normal
When faced with life-altering obstacles, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, defeated, and uncertain about the future. However, if we take the time to reflect, we can learn from these challenges and uncover deeper truths about ourselves. This process often reveals unexpected strengths and capabilities, helping us build a “new normal” that aligns with our aspirations and goals.
Moving Forward Post-Lockdown
As we emerge from the shadow of lockdowns and begin to navigate a post-pandemic world, now is the time to reflect on what we’ve learned about ourselves. Consider the following questions:
- What new strengths or characteristics have you discovered?
- How can you leverage these to pursue your goals and create the life you want to live?
By embracing the growth that arises from adversity, you can approach future challenges with confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.
The journey through adversity is never easy, but it can lead to extraordinary personal growth. By recognizing and harnessing the strengths you’ve developed, you can turn life’s challenges into powerful opportunities for transformation.
Happy reflecting, and here’s to building a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.
