Do Sports Really Teach Girls To Be Leaders?

How sports may shape girls' leadership through discipline, confidence, presence, self-realization, and sisterhood.

I recently heard that sports teach girls to be leaders. What type of leaders are we talking about?

In my sports career, I have seen many exceptional girls and women. Not all were leaders by nature. Some were rather followers who, under the right leadership, became the best of themselves. And I think it is important to recognize that not everyone is made to lead.

Whether or not one is a leader, sports teach many valuable lessons. From the courage to begin, the discipline to rise, the determination to succeed, to the grace of falling. Whether girls practice individual or team sports, they learn that self-realization starts with them in the body and the mind. From breathing, standing, choosing the next step no matter the circumstances, facing challenges, and growth is only possible through presence and experiences, the kind that steadies the mind and softens the heart. And let’s not forget sisterhood that teaches women the power of connection and the supportive energy in good and bad times.

Looking back, I realized that my sports years truly prepared me well for life. Sports taught me everything I mentioned above, but more importantly, to believe in myself and to do my best at whatever I endeavor with confidence. A winning combination that has brought me success over and over. It also taught me to analyze quickly, so I can determine what I need to improve and move on with goals in mind.

Sports often reminded me that progress is not linear and requires patience, dedication, and time. Unexpected breakthroughs were welcome while I truly learned to honor the deeper, cyclical nature of change. While perfection might have been on my mind too much at times, I eventually learned the importance of being in the depths of the present moment and letting go of the perfect performance and appearance. Non-linear progress is often where the real transformation happens. The pauses, the regressions, the quiet moments, and the wins are all part of integrating what it also means to be a self-led woman, no matter the external result.

So, if being a leader is the combination of all those experiences, then yes, girls and women are leaders for sure in their own way. Not by necessarily being louder and in places of power, but by being what they are meant to be. And showing that they are in charge of their lives is definitely showing leadership for sure!

If you need a coach who has a winning record, not just for herself but for her clients as well, feel free to contact me. I would be honored to guide you on your own leadership path!

Categories: : Coaching Tips, Expertise, Sports, Wellness