Pursuing Dreams Like an Olympian

Hi girlfriend, how are you?

After last week's newsletter about me heading off to the Paris Olympics, I received an email with a question, and I wanted to share my response as the theme for this newsletter. The question was simple yet profound: How can you pick up and go to pursue your passion?

My Journey Following My Passion

My journey with the Olympics began in 2002 when I worked at Arnold, an agency in Boston, on the Monster.com sponsorship of the Winter Games in Utah. I was completely OBSESSED with the healthy, athletic environment and the global connection. Watching people from all over the world come together to cheer for one another was exhilarating, and it sparked a passion in me that has grown over the years.

I started contracting with sports marketing agencies, traveling to various Games, and spending months living in host countries. I went to Beijing with Adidas and Vancouver with OMEGA. Through these client relationships, I will head to Paris with Anheuser-Busch and their European non-alcoholic Corona Cero in two weeks. For nearly 25 years, I've been involved with the Games. I even attended Torino as a spectator and worked for Visa at the FIFA World Cup in Moscow. It is my passion, so I take action. 

The Paris 2024 Games: "Games Wide Open"

The Paris 2024 Olympics slogan, "Games Wide Open," perfectly captures the spirit of inclusivity and accessibility. These Games bring the sport to the city's heart, making it accessible for Parisians and visitors. This resonates deeply with me because, like the Games, I believe in opening opportunities and making dreams possible for everyone.

Why This Matters

There’s something extraordinary about being on-site, surrounded by cheers in different languages. It resonates deeply with me, having been raised by a Russian mother born in France and a German father who came to the States via Brazil and Sweden before meeting in New York, where I was born as the first American generation. I grew up speaking Russian and admire my parents, who spoke seven languages between them. My mom even taught French in an all-boys school!

The Olympic Spirit

Being in the sports arena, with its incredible, healthy mindset of challenging oneself and striving for greatness, is unmatched. Training, pursuing goals, and hearing athletes' stories of relentless perseverance and dedication are enough to bring tears to your eyes! 😭

So, how can I pick up and go? There is no other option for me. This is my passion and my "why," and I must figure out how to make it happen. I cannot live with "mom guilt." I'd have it more staying home than I would by leaving. Don’t sacrifice your happiness because you think you have to for others. My family knows this and supports me wholeheartedly. Plus, they love the gifts I bring back from my travels!

Go After Your Own Dreams

As I prepare for the upcoming Olympics, I am reminded of the incredible resilience and determination that athletes embody. They train tirelessly, overcome obstacles, and push their limits to achieve greatness. This mindset is not limited to sports - it applies to every dream and goal you have.

No matter what you're doing in life, where you live, or how old you are (my 48th birthday is on July 16th, the first day of work for me in Paris after I arrive on the 15th) – you can do it! Embrace the Olympic spirit in your own life. Set your goals, train hard, and never give up. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are priceless.

My Message to You

When you feel uncertain about how to show up and need more confidence to push forward, I say this: like Olympians, you have the strength and resilience to overcome obstacles and achieve your dreams.

Remember, every time you feel hesitant, ask yourself: "Is this thought helping me get there, or is it holding me back?" Use your feelings to signal your desire and let them fuel you into action.

Love you. Gotta go. Bon Voyage! ✈️ 🇫🇷

Tamara

P.S. Watch for me on TV when the Games start on July 26th. I'll be there, cheering for the athletes and for you. This is a reminder that you can do it no matter what you're doing, where you live, or how old you are!