Cosmetic dentist Dr Alaa Ati discusses the lessons she has learned from the World Cup and how they can help out in the dental practice.
Whether we are passionate about football or not, without a doubt the matches have kept so many of us engaged with a rollercoaster of excitement and suspense.
There is something special about people uniting together from all over the world to celebrate their team and support each other.
Even though I don’t play football, I like to call myself an ‘observer’ of the game. This has helped me reflect on many important lessons from the sport that we can all learn from and incorporate into our lives, and especially our careers.
1. Celebrate your achievements
Work hard and play smart, but always remember to celebrate your achievements just as footballers do.
I love the passion with which every single goal is celebrated. Regardless of whether they are winning the game, the excitement of celebrating each goal across the stadium is electric.
This teaches us to embrace and celebrate our own achievements and progression during our career journeys, rather than waiting until we accomplish our final goal. Celebrating the ‘journey’ is just as important as celebrating the final destination.
2. Defence wins championships
During this World Cup, I have truly been amazed by the tenacity and resilience of the players.
What I’ve found interesting is that the ability to defend and protect the goal can achieve a more favourable outcome than simply trying to score. Similarly in life, taking the reasonable measures to protect ourself, whether that’s through self care, setting boundaries or being selective with how we spend our time, is crucial to ensure we are pouring from a cup that isn’t empty.
3. If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail
Every player has gone through endless hours of planning, training and discipline which are culminated into a game plan and then practically implemented on the day of the match.
For instance, if you put the wrong petrol in the car, it’s not going to go very far. For a human being it’s the same. You need to prepare the right way because a goal without a plan is just a wish.
This is why some of the most successful clinicians are the ones that never stop learning.
4. Nothing is impossible
The impossible can become possible with perseverance and passion. If at first you don’t succeed, try again.
This World Cup has been a testament that even the last few minutes on the pitch can completely transform the trajectory of a game. The key is to never lose hope!
So no matter what obstacles you face, always believe in yourself and never give up, because everything can change in an instant.
5. Have fun
This keeps you motivated and allows you to perform at your peak potential. It has been heartwarming to see so many of the players trying to enjoy the game, even when it gets tough.
When you enjoy doing something, you are more inclined to spend more time doing it. The more time you spend doing something, the higher the chance of you becoming good at it, which in turn gives you a greater chance of succeeding at it.
This is why in life you should find your passion and find what brings you joy. Then follow it. The epitome of success is someone who is fulfilling their passion whilst enjoying what they do.
6. Be a team player
For your team to win, you can’t succeed alone. There is nothing more powerful than seeing individuals unite their strengths together – regardless of their differences – to focus on accomplishing something bigger.
Do not let your own ego interfere with your way of progress or the progress of others. Just like football, life is a team sport too.
There will come a time when your success will depend on your ability to work well with others. When you are part of a team, think about the purpose of the team and what you are trying to achieve together. The success of your team will only add to your own success and never take away from it.
7. Accept failure
Learn to accept and handle both success and failure. Even the most exceptional football players, can’t win all the time.
Celebrate your achievements and learn from your losses. Focus on growing, rather than winning or losing.
Nelson Mandela once said: ‘I never lose, I either win, or learn.’
8. Be humble and kind
Even the best players will eventually have to leave the field.
Nothing lasts forever, so always acknowledge and appreciate the good you already have in your life.
‘Gratitude is the single most important ingredient to living a successful and fulfilled life.’
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