As the world gathers to watch the Winter Olympic Games this month, we can’t help but be inspired by the thousands of athletes that come together to compete.

Although most of us will never be a participate in an Olympic event, we can learn lessons from these amazing athletes, that can help us reach a higher level of success in life and in everything we do.

The following are some of the behaviors and characteristics that Olympic athletes possess that are worth noting –

1~ Determination. Olympic athletes spend most of their lives training for their event. In spite of tough days and set-backs, they continue to strive to work harder and be better – all things that we can live by to help get a promotion, or just be an office mentor.

2~ Positivity. Olympians are tough. In fact, they are the best of the best in what they do. Part of their success is due to the fact that they stay positive through their intense training. Positivity is catching, and is a quality that everyone appreciates.

3~ Emotional Control. Olympic athletes have the ability to put aside their emotions and everything else going on in their lives to pour all of their attention and focus only on their task at hand.

4~ Team Work. Even if they participate in an individual sport like downhill skiing, Olympians still understand the importance of being part of a team. They are there to provide support for the other teammates, and to congratulate them on their accomplishments, as well as building them up during losses.

5~ Health. Olympians understand the importance of eating and being healthy. Their jobs and lives depend on their body’s performance, and in order to do their best, they know to eat right and get plenty of water and sleep. In today’s busy world, most of us let our health slide, which results in feeling sluggish and poor performance.

6~ Being Coachable. Most people will only allow criticism from their bosses, and still only take that with a grain of salt. Champions like Olympic athletes are known for being the most open-minded to coaching and learning. They are constantly striving to succeed and seek advice to help them reach for higher goals.

7~ Think Big. Many people are so busy and caught up in the daily grind that they are happy to just be getting by in life. Olympians never just want to get by. They stay focused and strive to get better every single day.

Although you may not bring home the gold this month, you can learn something from the athletes that do just that. Be an Olympian on the inside and strive to be your best.