The Champion Within delves into insights from sport psychology to bring forth the skills and strategies that can help each of us unlock our full potential. Readers will understand the psychology of why people choke under pressure, and learn the tools to channelize this pressure for peak performance. The book offers step by step building blocks for readers to instill self-belief, build motivation, boost productivity, enhance focus and overcome setbacks on their path to success. From students to young leaders, athletes and performing artists, start-up founders and industry leaders, this book has something for everyone who wants to bring out the best in themselves and others. With anecdotes from the field of sport, the book offers an engaging perspective of grit, tenacity and mental strength.
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The Champion Within | Dr Samir Parikh and Divya Jain on Life Lessons from Sports Psychology | OCLF
On 22nd Nov 2025 05.00 PM TO 05:40 PM
The session "The Champion Within: Life Lessons from Sports Psychology" brought together psychiatrist Dr Samir Parikh and sports psychologist Divya Jain in conversation with physiotherapist Dr Anushree Duseja. The discussion explored how the mindset of an athlete applies to every individual navigating pressure, performance and personal growth.
The speakers shared insights from their experience with elite athletes, including their work as Mental Wellness Officers for Team India at the 2024 Paris Olympics. They highlighted the core pillars of mental strength: confidence, discipline, focus, resilience and emotional regulation. The conversation emphasised that self-belief matters most during struggle, not during success, and that process-based goals often create more meaningful progress than outcome-based goals.
The panel addressed how overthinking, comparison and self-judgment weaken performance, while self-awareness and realistic goal-setting strengthen motivation. They reminded the audience that mental fitness is essential for students, professionals and homemakers, not only for athletes. Everyday choices, discipline and consistency shape the champion within.
Audience questions explored how to handle pressure, build confidence, maintain focus and guide children in competitive environments. The session concluded with a call to nurture emotional fitness and mental discipline beyond the festival.