Imagine leaving your team in the middle of the Olympics.
This was the unthinkable decision made by Simone Biles in 2020.
Yet, her courage to prioritize her mental health over external pressure redefined how she came back in 2024.
Biles isn’t a quitter. She stayed true to her instincts and did what she felt was better for her and her career. She’s a visionary.
By stepping back, she not only preserved her well-being but also paved the way for a new era of sportsmanship. She started her own studio where she coached and mentored younger gymnasts to be trained in a different way – positive body image and prioritised mental health.
She taught us that:
- Self-awareness is paramount
Recognize your limits and prioritize mental health. This isn’t a weakness, but a strength. - Empathy is essential
Supporting teammates, acknowledging their strengths, and fostering a collaborative environment is the cornerstone of great leadership. - Vulnerability is power
Sharing struggles openly can inspire others and create a culture of support. - Growth mindset is crucial
Continuously evolving, learning from competitors, and helping others succeed is the mark of a true leader.
Simone Biles is more than an athlete; she’s a trailblazer.
Her story isn’t just about gymnastics; it’s a blueprint for leaders in every field.
Let’s embrace her courage, learn from her wisdom, and build a future where mental health and well-being are at the heart of leadership.
In these Olympics she was able to reach even greater heights. She won more medals than any US athlete before her.
In a further testament to her character, Biles, attaining a silver medal, gracefully bowed to gold medalist Rebeca Andrade, showing that true leaders take joy in the success of others’. With this simple act she became even more of a role model and inspiration.
This works 2 ways, both for yourself and for the people you lead.
Think about this question:
What steps can you take to prioritize your own mental health and the mental health of your team?
Having a support system in place for wellbeing helps build stronger teams, improves performance and creates a happier workplace culture.
Here’s to leaders who dare to be vulnerable, empathetic, and courageous.