Tomorrow is the start of the Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea, and my family and I could not be more excited!

For as long as I can remember, the Olympic Games have held a special place in my heart. I’m sure that part of it is because of my athletic background, but the other part is largely due to an amazing friend from high school who was an Olympic athlete herself. Not only did she compete, but she also won a silver medal in volleyball!

When we are sitting at home watching, the athletes make it look so easy that we often forget how much hard work it took for them to reach Olympic level in their sport. Just as in life itself, athletes go through so many trials and tribulations and ups and downs before they earn the honor to compete.

Through it all, they stay focused on the goal ahead and keep on keeping on. They may get discouraged, but they don’t let that stop them. They persevere.

So, in honor of the 2,952 athletes who are competing this year, I encourage you to persevere and make your dreams come true.

PS- How gorgeous is this view? (Credit to @archdigest for the fabulous photo.)