What the Olympics Can Teach Physicians About Mentoring August 13, 2024

Just like Olympic athletes, physicians are highly trained professionals who are driven to excel.  It is worth noting however, that even Olympic athletes require a network to reach the world stage. That goes for any profession, including physicians, and illustrates the importance of mentorship. To help physicians with their professional goals, MSDC launched the Fast Track to Leadership Program. The program will hold its inaugural event on September 18 and offers mentor/mentee pairing here. 

Below are some lessons on mentoring from the Olympics:

1) Coaching is important 

No athlete gets to the Olympics without support from a team of individuals, such as family, friends,  teammates, and especially their coach.  According to The Institute for Psychology of Elite Performance at Bangor University (United Kingdom) one of the key differences between a gold medalist and the next tier is their relationship with their coach. Coaches of the super-elite don’t just critique technique or performance, they develop a close, committed, and complimentary relationship with athletes.  Personal connection and trust allow a coach or mentor to encourage, motivate, and get the best performance out of others. 

2) There’s always room for improvement…

Despite Katie Ledecky’s many records, she recounts in her autobiography, Just Add Water, that her coach Anthony Nesty told her, “I know you’re Katie Ledecky, but as good as you are, you’re not perfect.”  This reality check led her to improve her stroke and beat her personal record. A valuable coach or mentor identifies areas for growth and star performers seek out continual improvement. 

3)  … But take time for mental health

Simone Biles made headlines and history in 2020 when she withdrew from the Tokyo Olympics for mental health reasons. Going public with her own personal struggles with wellbeing spotlighted the importance of mental health. Moreover, her gold medals at this year’s Olympics prove that focusing on mental health does not detract from success but rather leads to it. 

4) Diversity is a strength

Much has been written about the diversity on display in this year’s U.S. Olympic team.  The U.S. women's gymnastics champion team is the most racially diverse in history, and the bronze-winning men's team is the most diverse since 2012, according to USA Gymnastics. This demonstrates the strength and value of diversity in relationships and teams.

5) Change is okay

Track and field athlete Juliette Whitakker from Laurel, MD, started her competitive career swimming.  Despite skill at swimming, she switched to running in high school and found her stride. In May 2022, Juliette became only the second high school girl to run faster than 2 minutes in the 800 meters, clocking 1:59.51 at a New York City trial. At the Olympics she set a personal record in the 800 meter race. Her success demonstrates that it’s okay to make a change to reach your full potential.  

Coaching and mentorship are as important in medicine as they are in sports.  Having a mentor or coach can help physicians reach the top of their game.  Likewise, being a mentor can sharpen one’s own knowledge and boost wellbeing.   To get or become a physician mentor, sign up here. Also, register for MSDC’s in-person mentorship event on September 18.