Mikaela Shiffrin, 30, is a three-time Olympic gold medalist who once found the prospect of competing in the Games overwhelming.
The Mental Game
On Friday’s episode of “Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce,” Shiffrin discussed the extensive preparation required for the Olympics, noting much of the work happens outside of public view. She told podcast host Kylie Kelce that she is now acutely aware of “all of the work that’s gone into—actually, not the medal—but the work that’s gone into showing up on race day.”
Shiffrin explained that managing the pressure of the Games is a continuous process, even during the off-season. She described having “a lot of conversations” with her psychologist about “all the different feelings surrounding the Olympics,” including efforts to “desensitize to the word” and visualize the event.
To further prepare, Shiffrin even visited Paris two summers ago to experience the Olympic atmosphere and lessen her anxiety. She has structured her life to prioritize physical and mental readiness, stating she hasn’t consumed alcohol in two years because it makes her sick and compromises her ability to stay healthy.
The Blink of an Eye
Shiffrin acknowledged the paradoxical nature of dedicating years to training for a competition that can be decided in a matter of seconds. “You spend so much time doing all of this work and training for something, and then the moment it happens is, you know, 47 seconds, or like in the blink of an eye, and it’s just really weird,” she said.
Shiffrin recently earned another gold medal in slalom on Wednesday, her first Olympic victory since 2018. She has also deliberately limited her social media use leading up to races, recognizing its potential to introduce unwanted distractions. She also chose not to “set expectations” for herself heading into the Milan Cortina Games, a strategy she believes contributed to her success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Shiffrin discuss with Kylie Kelce?
Shiffrin discussed the work and preparation that goes into competing in the Olympics, beyond just winning a medal.
How did Shiffrin prepare mentally for the Olympics?
Shiffrin had conversations with her psychologist, visualized the event, and even visited Paris to acclimate to the Olympic atmosphere.
What changes has Shiffrin made to her lifestyle to support her athletic goals?
Shiffrin has abstained from alcohol for two years to avoid illness and prioritize her health.
Given the intense preparation and mental strategies employed by athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin, how much do you think the psychological aspect of competition contributes to overall success?