Why Your Post-Athletic Career Goals Need to Be as Flexible as You Are

Alright, so you’ve spent years mastering the art of flexibility on the field—dodging defenders, adjusting your game plan on the fly, and bending like a pretzel in yoga (maybe). But here’s the thing: that same flexibility you used in sports? You’re going to need it just as much, if not more, in your career after sports. Let’s talk about why your career goals need to be as flexible as you are.

1. Life Changes, and So Will Your Goals (Because That’s How Life Works)

Remember when you thought you’d be playing sports forever? Yeah, life had other plans, didn’t it? The same goes for your career goals. What you want today might not be what you want tomorrow—and that’s okay! Maybe you start off wanting to be a teacher, and then you find out you’re really into graphic design or engineering. Being flexible with your goals means you’re ready for whatever life throws at you, even if it’s something you never expected. I have been flexible a lot until I have found my true calling – leadership & coaching!

2. The Path Isn’t Always Straight (And That’s Not a Bad Thing)

In sports, you learned that sometimes you have to take a different route to get to the goal—like when you got a little injury and you need to adjust your moves or when you tried a new strategy. In your career after sports, it’s the same deal. The path to your dream job might be full of twists, turns, and a few dead ends. But guess what? That’s part of the adventure. Being flexible means you can handle those challenges without freaking out, knowing that every twist is getting you closer to where you want to be.

3. Keep an Open Mind (Because Opportunities Are Everywhere)

You might think you know exactly what you want to do with your life, but keep your eyes and mind open. New opportunities can pop up out of nowhere—maybe a job you never considered, or a chance to learn something new. Flexibility means you’re not stuck on one idea. You’re ready to explore, try new things, and maybe even discover a passion you didn’t know you had.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Pivot (Because Sometimes You Need a New Game Plan)

Just like in a game when the original plan isn’t working and you need to switch things up quickly, sometimes your career goals will need a change too. Maybe you realize that your first choice isn’t making you as happy as you thought it would. Never stay in something too long that is not fulfilling you. That’s when you pivot—try something different, find a new direction. Flexibility gives you the freedom to adjust without feeling like you’ve failed. Remember, it’s all part of the process.

Your post-athletic career is going to be full of surprises, and that’s what makes it exciting! Just like on the field, being flexible with your goals will help you navigate the ups, downs, and everything in between. So, keep your mind open, stay adaptable, and get ready to tackle whatever comes your way. You’ve got this!