Overcoming Burnout: Strategies for Rekindling Passion in Sports
With a total of 28 gold medals, Michael Phelps is the most decorated and successful Olympian of all time. He is just one of many well-known athletes, such as basketball player Kevin Love and gymnast Simone Biles, who have opened up about their struggles with burnout. No matter the sport, level of competition, or professional status, sustained high levels of training and competition, pressure to succeed, and constant media attention can result in a condition known as burnout, which is characterized by physical, mental, and emotional tiredness followed by significant drops in performance, motivation, and general wellbeing. So how can athletes overcome burnout and keep competing? What are some strategies athletes can utilize to rekindle their passion for their sport?