Book Review: ‘The Champion’s Comeback’

I think one of the things people love about watching the Olympic games in Rio is all the inspiring athletes that work so hard to reach their goals and to compete for greatness.  I think it's something we have all tried to do at one point in our lives and watching this connection makes us happy.

There's a book I recently picked up at a bookstore in Binghamton called "The Champion's Comeback," from leading sports psychologist Jim Afremow.  The book knows what makes good athletes great, especially when they come back to win after facing devastating injuries.  It truly shows the reader how great athletes "recover, reflect and reignite."

What's one thing all Olympians have in common? Confidence.  If you are confident, you can be your best when it matters most.The book presents some inspiring winning strategies that can be used for anyone looking to win at what they do.  I found it to be a book that everyone can relate to- athlete or non-athlete.  And the inspiring lessons the reader takes away can help you in everyday situations in school or work.

I think most of us would agree that the world needs more positive role models today, more than ever.  With  this book, I think it's something you should read and pass on to your kids or people that you know are down and out.  It's not preachy, it's just good inspiring reading.

Here are 5 lessons I took away from "The Champion's Comeback":

1. Give yourself a mental high five after executing a play or performance as planned. Positive self-reinforcement is like making a deposit in your confidence account.
2. Reflect on your past successes and highlights. This will lead to better play in the future. Replay these magic moments in your mind and feel how good they felt at the time. Later, when you need an extra boost, it will be easier to draw on these feelings.
3. Remember a particular occasion when you triumphed over a difficult challenge, such as overcoming fear in the face of a tryout or bouncing back from an injury.
4. Write down some of the keys that made this success possible.
5. Think about the compliments others have paid you and your abilities. Remember what teammates, friends, coaches, and family members have said about your athletic prowess. They are the ones that know you and what you are capable of. Mirror and mimic what your role models did to become champions.

"The Champion's Comeback" by Jim Afremow is available at local bookstores and at Amazon.