I am of course talking about the Paralympic athletes who have been on our screens this past week. As someone who is generally interested in sport and sports psychology I have been watching with admiration and fascination for these amazing inspiring human beings. What I’m most fascinated about is by the personal stories these athletes bring. I have found myself Googling many of them to find out what happened to them that led them to Rio. I have been shocked by what adversity all of them and their families have had to endure, and then amazed by what they have overcome to reach their peak physical state and push their boundaries.

But it’s their mentality that amazes me the most – what drives these people to overcome living with their disability in a world that is often inflexible and focused on image, then go for sporting excellence. How do they do it? Where do they learn to be so determined and resilient? Who and what are their influences? Ultimately what motivates them to overcome adversity and seek excellence?

Is it having a positive personality trait, support from their loved ones, encountering opportunities? Or is it simply wanting to make the most of what they have – however “flawed” or “disabled” their bodies may be.  I don’t know the answer, I haven’t spoken to any Paralympians or researched articles about them yet. One theory I have, is that they have embraced their vulnerabilities, accepted themselves as they are and are authentic individuals who have found their purpose in life. This alone gives one huge courage and resilience.

However, whatever the answer is, and I suspect the answers will vary from athlete to athlete, I do wonder if their resilience, courage and determination can somehow be modelled and taught to people who are generally struggling with life. It would be helpful for those people who are going through bad times, who feel like the world is against them, or for young people who may never have learnt how to be resilient and feel defeated by any disappointments (and life does throw us all disappointments). Perhaps teaching young people self-acceptance would be a start?

I think it’s something worth researching, (it probably has been done) and finding out what that formula for mental strength is. In a world where there is much uncertainty and mental health issues are rocketing, we could all benefit from learning a trick or two from these Superhumans.