How to be patient while becoming your best self? Badminton CWG Games Gold Medalist, Ashwini Ponnappa

In the world of badminton, few names shine as brightly as Ashwini Ponnappa. With a Commonwealth Games Gold Medal dangling proudly around her neck, she has not only conquered the court but also the hearts of millions. Ashwini's journey to the pinnacle of her sport wasn't just about physical prowess; it was a testament to the formidable power of the human mind.

As she so eloquently puts it, "In badminton and in life, your biggest opponent is often your own mind. Once you conquer that, you're unstoppable."

But Ashwini knows that even the most resolute minds need a support system. Her rise to glory was made brighter by the unwavering encouragement of her coaches, family, and friends. In this conversation, we'll delve into Ashwini's insights on patience, positivity, and the pursuit of excellence. She'll share her secrets for overcoming challenges and finding joy in the journey, all while reminding us that staying grounded is key to weathering the storms of success. So, let's step onto the court of wisdom with Ashwini Ponnappa and learn how to become our best selves.

About Ashwini Ponnappa

Ashwini Ponnappa who is one of India’s best doubles badminton players. She is a two time sub-junior national champion and two time junior national champion in women's doubles. She began to display her skill and talent to the world after partnering with Jwala Gutta in 2009. Her first major victory came in 2010 when she bagged a gold medal in women's doubles at the South Asian Games in Dhaka. With another gold medal won at the Delhi Commonwealth Games in 2010, she established herself as one of India's top badminton players. Ashwini and Jwala Gutta became the first Indian doubles pair and the first Indian women to ever win a world championship medal when they clinched bronze at the 2011 World Championships in London. This was a huge feat since it ended a 28-year medal drought for India at the badminton world championships. The pair also won bronze at the Badminton Asia Championships in 2014.

The power of patience

Patience, as Ashwini Ponnappa keenly underscores, is the secret ingredient to personal growth and success. She believes that impatience can lead to hasty decisions and missed opportunities.

"In badminton, I've learned that patience is key. Rushing a shot or getting frustrated when things don't go your way only sets you back," Ashwini explains.

This wisdom extends far beyond the badminton court. Patience allows individuals to weather the storms of life, to persevere when faced with adversity, and to keep moving forward even when progress seems slow.

Finding joy in the journey

Ashwini Ponnappa firmly believes that finding joy in your journey is the secret sauce to staying motivated in the long run.

She believes, "Passion fuels progress, and joy is the compass that keeps you on the right path."

Think of it this way: when you're genuinely passionate about something, whether it's a sport, a hobby, or a career, it hardly ever feels like work. Take Ashwini's love for badminton, for example. She found immense joy in every practice session and every match, and that passion led her to become a Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist. To discover joy in your own pursuits, start by identifying what truly excites you. Whether it's playing an instrument, writing, or a sport, focus on what lights that fire within you. Then, set aside time for those activities regularly, and savor the small victories along the way.

As Ashwini puts it, "Each tiny step towards your goal is a reason to celebrate. It's the joy in these moments that will fuel your journey towards becoming your best self."

So, embrace the joy, and let it be your guiding star on your path to self-improvement.

Starting your day right: The positive warm up routine

Starting your day on a positive note can set the tone for the entire day ahead. Ashwini, swears by this practice. She believes that a positive morning routine can be your secret weapon for success.

Ashwini often says, "The way you start your day is the way you live your day."

One practical tip she shares is to begin your morning by expressing gratitude. She suggests taking a few moments to reflect on the things you're thankful for. This simple act can shift your mindset from one of scarcity to one of abundance. Additionally, Ashwini recommends incorporating light physical activity into your morning, like stretching or a short walk, to awaken your body and mind. This positivity-packed morning routine can boost your mood, increase your productivity, and help you approach challenges with a more resilient attitude throughout the day.

So, as you roll out of bed, remember Ashwini's advice: "Start your day with a smile, and the world will smile back at you."

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ashwini Ponnappa's journey from a young badminton enthusiast to a Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist offers us valuable insights into the art of self-improvement.

As she aptly puts it, "Patience is the secret ingredient to success. It's about trusting the process and believing in yourself."

Ashwini's advice to start each day with a positive warm-up routine resonates with the idea that small, consistent efforts can lead to significant progress.

Remembering her words, "Challenges are stepping stones, not stumbling blocks," we are reminded that setbacks are opportunities for growth.

Finding joy in our endeavors, just as she found joy in badminton, can fuel our motivation. Finally, her reminder to never forget where we started serves as an anchor to keep us humble and determined in the face of success. So, take these lessons to heart, apply them to your own journey of self-improvement, and let Ashwini's wisdom and accomplishments inspire you to reach for your own goals.

Watch the full episode here - https://youtu.be/YFIL3nfKsLw?si=Y1nh7vgEddZzJjce