Second Act

21 Jul Second Act

Soon we’ll see the finest athletes in the world competing at the Paris Olympics, replete with fanfare, hype and publicity. But what happens to the athletes when it’s over? Win or lose, they have a relatively short career, one that thirsts for a second act. Some Olympians have broken through.

Michael Phelps is now a commentator for NBC. He traded his dude manner for an incisive and supportive speaking style.

Olympic Gold and Bronze Medalist Wendy Boglioli is now a popular speaker in the field of long-term care and recently gave a keynote at the swimming trials in Indianapolis.

Simone Biles has balanced mental health with gymnastic brilliance. She is winning again and is the face of the 2024 Olympics. But even Biles is quoted as saying “What the heck do I do next?” when she returned home a champion after the 2016 Olympics. (Don’t miss the Netflix docuseries: Simone Biles Rising)

We’ve trained Olympians and Paralympians. They face similar fears of remaining relevant, as well as compensated when no longer competing in their sport. It can be done. Beyond the accrual of new skills, it’s speaking about your experience and how it can be applied to business. Leverage your past to build your future.