By Katrice

I love the Olympics. Part of it involves the glimpse into the many world cultures and another is the sheer spirit of it. Something about whole nations cheering for their athletes sends a chill down my spine. It's just simply exciting. This year, however, social media has opened up a whole new world of commentary and reaction to the competition and participants. And in the past week, I have been doubly inspired by what we're all experiencing from miles away as if we were right there in the stands. The first night I watched 17-year-old Missy Franklin earn a gold medal in the Women's 100-meter Backstroke, I was literally speechless. As well, like everyone else — Gabrielle Douglas' story has moved me like experiencing someone close to me achieve a phenomenal feat. And from their triumphs, I have been taking notes. 

5. Sincerity, by itself, can produce. 
All of the talk about Gabrielle's hair left me thinking of what it is about her that brought her to her pinnacle moment of success, thus far. I knew that she, like all of her competitors, practiced hard and that she was focused. She had to be to be separated from her family for her art at such a young age. And what I concluded is that it was her sincerity. I was talking with a colleague recently and said to him, not many of us would be willing to lay aside our cares about our outer appearance for the sake of being the best. Sincerity about being not just the best but the best in the world will do that. 

4. Study. Practice. Believe. Execute. 
You can't sidestep anyone of these in your pursuit of greatness. 

3. Work. 
So many times, we observe a person's success and we want that. It could be their toned physique, acclaimed career or notoriety of expertise ... It's normal. But, we should always consider their back story. If we look into their back story, one thing will always be consistent: Their willingness to work without fainting. Endurance, as well as a willingness to endure, is key.

2."Overnight success" usually follows years of quiet sacrifice.
It takes a great deal of commitment to the process of seasoning. And with each level of sacrifice, there is a reward. I always say there is power in finishing. Finish what you start. It's like fuel. You believe a little bit more with every level you succeed. Sacrifice increases your capacity.

1. Sometimes, all of your hard work can be tested in one defining moment. 
Stay ready.