The inspiring 30-metre mural features KJT hurdling on the sports track, fuelled by words of encouragement such as ‘progress not perfection’ and ‘never give up’
British Gas shares Katarina Johnson mural video ahead of Olympic Games
A 30-metre by 10-metre mural, located on Liverpool’s Dale Street next to the popular local pub The Excelsior, is catching the attention of passers-by. The artwork depicts Katarina Johnson-Thompson in action on the sports track, with motivational phrases such as ‘progress not perfection’ and ‘never give up’ surrounding her. These words were chosen after a study of 2,000 adults revealed they help people achieve their goals.
The mural was created by renowned local artist Paul Curtis over three weeks. It was commissioned by British Gas as part of their initiative to foster positive change in local communities, promote sustainable energy use, and support sport at the grassroots level.
Speaking about the mural, Johnson-Thompson said: “The positive energy from my supporters has always spurred me on and inspired me, this celebratory mural in my hometown that brings this to life in such an impactful way is amazing to see.”
This comes as a study by British Gas found that 72% of people admit they have struggled to find the motivation to be more active, citing reasons such as fatigue, time constraints, or simply being stuck in a rut.
Johnson-Thompson added: “Motivational words help to keep you going as an athlete. I’ve been lucky enough to have been surrounded by people in my career who have my back and who have given me so much positive encouragement to spur me on. Positive words of motivation from others improves your outlook – and could even better your performance.”
The heptathlete was greeted by a group of local children, brought along by the Liverpool Football Club Foundation. The foundation provides life-changing opportunities for young people and their families, and Johnson-Thompson is an ambassador.
A recent poll revealed that 83% of respondents believe it’s crucial to inspire and encourage children and young adults to engage in sports. The research also discovered that to maintain motivation, one in four use the mantra ‘one day at a time’ to get active and stay on track. While 23% remind themselves that any progress is good progress, and 15% aim for progress, not perfection.
According to those surveyed via OnePoll.com, receiving words of encouragement is the most effective method of motivating someone (41%), followed by setting clear goals and being surrounded by a supportive environment (both 31%). However, respondents said the least effective methods of motivation were those based on fear (six per cent) and receiving brutal honesty – even if it’s not what you wanted to hear (12%).
Performance psychologist Katie Mobed, who has coached Olympic champions, educational leaders, and world record holders, added: “Any professional athlete will tell you that the support they get from the crowd gives them a huge boost. The most popular motivational phrases in the research are geared towards making physical activity more achievable and less daunting.”
“This is an effective strategy because it speaks to the nature of the mind, which has not evolved to be wholly positive and confident. This negativity bias is why we feel the sting of criticism more powerfully than we feel the joy of praise.”
“To get out of a rut or create new, positive habits around physical activity, we need to overcome this bias and tip the scales in favour of positive action. Breaking our goals down into small, achievable chunks really helps, and this is exactly why phrases like ‘progress not perfection’ help us to get active.”
Of the 38% of Brits who don’t do any form or exercise, 46% would like to take up walking, 22% swimming and 14% yoga. While 82% of all those polled – whether they exercised or not – said the hardest part about becoming active is simply getting started.
James Corcoran, from British Gas, said: “We all need the power of positivity – and our mural by the talented Paul Curtis is here to support Katarina Johnson-Thompson and inspire her hometown and its millions of visitors.”
“We hope that the phrases proven to power positivity resonate with all generations in promoting self-belief and showing support for others in whatever they are looking to achieve.”
TOP 20 PHRASES THAT MOTIVATE BRITS:
- One day at a time.
- Any progress is good progress.
- You can do this.
- Keep going.
- You don’t have to go fast; you just have to go.
- You’ve got this.
- You know you can do this.
- Strive for progress, not perfection.
- You don’t have to be great to start, you just have to start.
- You are worth your effort.
- Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.
- Do something today that your future self will thank you for.
- The only bad workout is the one that didn’t happen.
- Believe you can and you’re halfway there.
- Don’t let obstacles stop you.
- You are your only limit.
- This is your moment.
- It’s go time.
- You’ll never run alone.
- This could be your legacy.
