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Think about the hardest thing in life that you are facing today and then tell yourself to-- Embrace It! The Power of Resilience If you have been tuning in on the Paris 2024 Olympics, then you most certainly have been marveling at the best athletes in the history of this World! What makes these athletes more special than the rest? You could answer this in many ways, but I believe it is their ability to have  resilience  and overcome obstacles  (figuratively and literally) . Last year, my organization gave me the book, The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday, and since then he has become one of my favorite authors, teaching the concept of Stoicism. In the book, he shares stories about historical figures who have gone through some of the most horrific situations in life -- but because of their ability to control their perception and turn the negative into positive they end up achieving the impossible and beatings the odds. With every obstacle they became better and stronger to face the next. Think about what Simone Biles, a prodigy, and one of the most decorated gymnasts in world, has faced on her path to greatness. From navigating the intense physical and mental demands of the sport to dealing with the pressures of competition and public scrutiny on passing up on the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. I think many would agree that she has displayed an unwavering level of resilience throughout her entire career.  [Yes, I am fan-girling a bit…] Sha ‘Carri Richardson another Olympic icon endured a horrific tragedy losing her mother and then missing her shot at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Four years later, we all are sitting here and watch her sprint to glory, winning the Silver Medal for the United States.  To many, it appears Stephen Nedoroscik just arrived on the scene, but he has been competing at a high level in Men's Gymnastics since 2003. For years in competition he has faced many setbacks, from COVID 19 cancellations, to being passed over for other gymnasts, and finally when he made the 2020 Olympic Qualifiers, he slipped on the pommel and fell immediately eliminating him from competing. Yet, this time when it was his moment to shine, he helped the Men’s Gymnastics team win the Bronze Medal. His resilience made him ready for the biggest obstacle of his career and in those moments he changed history forever!  I have only named three Olympians that have inspired me, but thousands of these Olympians have proven that resilience is not just about overcoming obstacles, but also about embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, and continuing to push forward in pursuit of excellence.  Their journeys should serve as inspiration to everyone, showing that with determination, perseverance, and a powerful sense of self-belief, anything is possible in the world of sports and beyond. So, the next time you face a challenge at work, at home, or anywhere else in life – think about these athletes – and know it will only prepare you for the best that is yet to come!

I have been there – you want to work in sports but you have no idea exactly what you want to do. Quick Tips I went to school for broadcast journalism with the sole intent to be the next Erin Andrews or Lisa Salters. It was a harsh reality when I graduated from college only to find myself working at Universal Studios in the consumer survey research department asking park guests to take 20-minute survey of their experience at Islands of Adventures ( that is long story for another day - shout out to IOA).   My plans did not go the way I envisioned because I did not prepare before taking my journey. So here is the the thing I wish I would have known back then that I can share with you today. Find a role model but do your homework  FIRST . To begin, chart out all of the different careers in sports that interest you and find the people who are currently in those roles today. LinkedIn is a treasure trove of women and men that have paved the way for a brighter future in the sports industry. To gain some insights on what you want to do, start by doing some research and follow those individuals in whom you aspire to be!  You may see some commonalities in background or even personalities that match yours. Remember the path to success is not linear, however maybe those individuals can provide you some clarity on what you want to do (or not do).  Quick Tip 1: This person does not always have to be someone who works in the sport industry, you can find tons of role models outside of the sport industry as well. In fact, I encourage that. There are several sport business executives that DID NOT have a background in sports but have gained the skills needed outside of the industry that was transferable while working in sports. You can create your own version and chart your own path. Quick Tip 2: Should you be bold enough to reach out to these individuals make sure you are  prepared  and present yourself as professional because you always want to make a good impression! They may not answer at first, but look up the term, "professional persistence", as this is key.  Quick Tip 3: I have heard the "get your foot in the door expression", where you take any job just to get in sports. While I see the angle here, I would caution taking jobs well outside the scope of your passions as it may lead to disinterest or burnout on working in sports all together. Instead research the position you want and try to get the attention of those in those roles. Remember, no one believe in yourself more than you do -- get after it! Feel free to follow my LinkedIn for more insights.  Cheers,  Philicia Douglas