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In times of uncertainty, what can elite athletes teach the business world?

EY Oceania

Multidisciplinary professional services organization

4 minute read 23 Sep. 2020
Related topics
Gender equality
Diversity and inclusiveness

Already masters of resilience, athletes are a perfect resource to turn to in today’s uncertain world.

In brief

  • Having faced challenges on the world stage, athletes can provide guidance on how to navigate these challenging times.
  • The core qualities intrinsic to athletes — resilience, single-mindedness and purpose — are qualities that can help the business world move toward the “new normal.” 

In a world already filled with uncertainty, elite athletes now have to navigate several challenges beyond the field. Competitions have been delayed, training schedules have moved into backyards and home gyms, and support teams have become virtual. The world of an athlete — like all others — has quickly migrated from a highly scheduled one filled with immediate feedback to one with ever-changing ambiguity.

The journey to the sporting world stage is one that takes decades for most athletes. These sudden changes are unprecedented, and for most, the journey now seems like it has come to a standstill. As we look to the future to provide us with heart-stopping sporting moments, we need to foster the unifying power of this community. The highs and lows experienced on the field or in the stands is a global language and one that will continue to unite people all over the world, now and well beyond this crisis. Enterprises should consider programs, such as EY's athlete programs, to supporting athletes in all aspects of their journeys.

We can look to athletes for guidance on how to navigate this challenging time. Athletes have faced seemingly insurmountable challenges and have still reached the top of the podium. They know what it takes to stand up after falling short of their goals. They understand how to rally a team around a common goal. 

It all starts with your mind and perspective; reframing the situation as an opportunity to make gains rather than a loss.

Jess Morrison

Australian Olympian in Rowing, and EY Australia Consultant

We know that resilience is a core quality of elite athletes and a skill that they are tapping into now more than ever. Once the world begins to move toward the “new normal,” it is essential that we are best equipped to bounce back. 

“Coming back from any challenging experience takes discipline and a strong belief in yourself. Having a support network will help you persevere to overcome tasks that may appear impossible. It is important to remember that you have spent years developing the skills and necessary abilities to succeed. One failure does not define you. Use your determination in the face of adversity to inspire others, and you can be the start of a positive change.” — Annie O’Shea, American skeleton racer.

How EY can help

With a new playing field in front of all of us, we must remain single-minded in the pursuit of our goals while adjusting our day-to-day routines. Setting clear goals, establishing a routine and surrounding ourselves with a supportive coaching team will help to build healthy habits for success.

 

“It all starts with your mind and perspective; reframing the situation as an opportunity to make gains rather than a loss. You also need to identify motivators; give yourself goals, practice visualization and incentivize yourself with rewards. And lastly, you need to look at how you can keep the momentum going week to week; structure will give you clear direction — challenge yourself with your friends, stay connected, celebrate the small successes and find ways to make training enjoyable.” — Jess Morrison, Australian rower.

 

It has never been more important for athletes to identify and demonstrate their purpose. They have a unique opportunity to take the time to refocus on their priorities, recognize what drives them and foster an environment to inspire others. People are looking to each other right now for motivation, to provide a sense of comfort and even for new workout tips.

 

“The current quarantine and social distancing situation reminds me in many ways of the time I spent on the road while competing on the international ski jumping circuit. I learned some important lessons which not only got me through my isolated time on the road but allowed me to continuously improve and find purpose in every action every day. Being deliberate is a very important lesson I took away from this time. Prior to starting a new activity, I would set time aside to understand the objective behind it. It was important that I didn’t let the stress of competition seep into these times I had blocked for nourishment, recovery and improvement.

 

“In my current role at the EY organization, I value the importance of these lessons. Take time to take care of yourself. Through proper nourishment, time to mentally and physically recover from the external stressors and finding time to connect with people is important, especially during this time.” — Eric Mitchell, Canadian ski jumper.

The EY Athlete Programs

EY recognizes the value of athletes and the unique skillset they bring to our teams and our clients, and are committed to supporting this diverse talent pool.

Learn More

Summary

Athletes have trained to navigate challenges, and can exemplify what it takes to get through this challenging time. They bring a unique skillset to their business teams and clients, and they know what it takes to stand up after falling short of their goals.

About this article

EY Oceania
Multidisciplinary professional services organization
Related topics
Gender equality
Diversity and inclusiveness

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.