The Olympic winner who helped me
By: Priyam Samantray
Tags: Olympics, Beyourself, Life Lessons, Mental Toughness, Inspiration

Key Takeaways from Károly Takács Life

Karoly Takacs has been a powerful influence in my life so far. When it comes to dreams, I always recollect the passion with which he had chased them and succeeded in the end. I have mentioned some of the inspirations that can be taken from his life.

1# Use the existing resources in life

After having injured his right hand, he trained his left hand for shooting because it was in a good condition.

Similarly, in life, we will face unforeseen events which might limit our existing resources.

Rather than mourning over a loss or limitation, it is better to focus on the reserves still present with us and channelize them to realize our dream.

How to apply?

Despite the issues concerning me, I focussed and used my existing scientific knowledge and skill to boost my task accomplishments. Often, I had thoughts about blaming the present circumstances. But I countered than by diverting my attention. Anyone facing such a situation can apply this takeaway to his/her life.

2# Consistency

He practiced shooting consistently with his left hand to make it on a par with his right hand. That is why it is often said

‘Consistency is the key to finish anything that you started.’

This is so true. Because sometimes your long-term goals will need a lot of effort. And, it is impossible to finish all the efforts in a single day. So, it is required to spread them over some days. Here, consistency needs to be practiced to execute the efforts planned over time. In the end, the skill levels rise due to all the hours of effort.

How to apply?

With a strong idea of my situation, I made a plan (in terms of hours and days) for the remainder of my Ph.D. studies. Then, I made a pledge to execute the scheduled hours per day on my Ph.D. research. Even though I failed for a few hours during the day, but I still maintained the effort till the end consistently.

3# Positive mindset especially for the dreams

When Károly Takács injured his right hand, there are two paths that emerge from here. Either he would bury his dreams and live the rest of his life without doing anything. Or else he would still chase his dreams and battle the difficulties. Thanks to him, he chose the latter one.

This is how a positive mindset works.

In life, when it is a question of the dreams that are closer to our hearts, never accept a defeat. Always think ‘It is possible’.

How to apply?

List down your dreams. Select the ones that you think are the most difficult ones to achieve. Then, keep repeating for 5–10 mins ‘It is possible’. Now, begin listing the points through which you can make it possible.

You will be surprised to see that your brain will provide you with new ideas to counter those difficulties that prevent your dream from becoming a reality.

4# Coupling between mind and body

After Károly decided to practice shooting with his left hand, his mind had the determination and his left hand followed it.

Now, there is a term called a placebo effect in the medical world. Here, a pill with no medicinal value is given to a patient with an assurance that it will cure their ailments. And surprisingly, it cured in many medical studies. This is called a placebo effect.

How to apply?

Always expect a favorable outcome to any work done by means of physical action. Cultivate a belief of being ‘able to do’ in the mind. Keep this belief strong and forever.