In the world of sports, moments of triumph and glory are often accompanied by tales of sacrifice, determination, and overcoming adversity. The recent World Cup Final witnessed an incredible example of this narrative as footballer Olga Carmona led her team to victory while, unknown to her, her father had sadly passed.
Her response not only inspires us but also teaches an important lesson about dealing with grief, staying positive, and excelling in life despite challenges – “And without knowing it, I had my Star before the game started. I know that you have given me the strength to achieve something unique. I know that you have been watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace Dad.”
The Impact of Grief on Performance
Grief is a universal experience, and its effects on performance can be profound. Whether in sports, work, or personal relationships, the weight of grief can easily lead to decreased motivation, focus, and overall well-being. Olga’s case highlights the complexity of dealing with grief while striving for excellence and celebrating great achievements. Suppressing emotions can be detrimental yet allowing them to completely overpower us can hinder our ability to function effectively. Striking the right balance is essential.
7 Ways to Handle Grief
It’s possible to navigate the challenging waters of grief while still achieving greatness and living your life to the fullest! Here are some ways to handle grief and excel in various aspects of life:
- Acknowledge Emotions: It’s crucial to allow yourself to feel and process your emotions. Suppressing them can lead to long-term negative effects.
- Seek Support: Surround yourself with a support system – friends, family, or professionals who can provide comfort and understanding during tough times.
- Set Realistic Goals: During times of grief, it’s okay to adjust your expectations and set realistic goals for yourself. Small achievements can provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is paramount. Engage in activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and comfort.
- Use Your Emotions as Fuel: Channel your emotions into your pursuits. Creativity, sports, work – these outlets can become cathartic and empowering.
- Embrace Positivity and Happiness: While allowing yourself to grieve, actively seek out positive aspects in your life. Cultivate gratitude and focus on the happy moments.
- Professional Help: If grief becomes overwhelming, seeking professional help like therapy can provide coping mechanisms and strategies to navigate the pain.
Rowland Brothers International (RBI) has been at the heart of global funeral repatriation since 1971, after being established in 1973 as a family funeral director. RBI was established when holiday companies recognised the need for a commercial repatriation strategy to reunite loved ones with their families after a fatal tragedy abroad. Our seventh-generation family funeral expertise helps us transfer loved ones from one country to another, ensuring that the necessary documentation is in place.
