Lessons from soccer
If you’re new here, welcome! It’s been a while since I’ve shared a blog post. I took some time away to focus on other aspects of the business, but we’re back for a special edition!
Autumn has always felt like home to me. It’s a season where new beginnings meet change and beauty. It also means soccer season.
You might not know but for a long time, soccer was a huge part of my life. From the ages of 4 to 21, I lived and breathed the sport. I was fortunate enough to stay healthy and play four years of collegiate soccer at the Division III level which included two NCAA tournament appearances and one trip to the Sweet 16. The “glory days” some might say.
Those days somehow feel like both forever ago and just yesterday. What’s stayed with me most, though, are the life lessons that run through my veins. Lessons that shape who I am today and still show up in my work, my mindset, and even my own recovery journey.
Here are five lessons from soccer that apply far beyond the field.
Lesson #1: Having an “off day” is completely normal.
We’ve all had those days where no matter how hard we try, things just don’t click. It’s easy to feel frustrated, but I’ve learned to practice acceptance and gratitude on those days instead.
Two things that help me:
Write down 1–2 things I’m grateful for.
Note one thing I want to tackle tomorrow.
It’s a small way to shift my mindset by focusing on gratitude while also refocusing on the “next play.”
Lesson #2: Wins feel amazing (but it’s consistency that creates them).
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a hard-fought win after 90 minutes on the field. But my coach always reminded us: the magic happens in practice.
The real win was showing up every single day; to lifts, practices, recovery sessions, with consistency and commitment. Those little moments are what led to the big wins.
Whether it’s a small or big win, both deserve to be celebrated.
Lesson #3: A solid routine is a gamechanger.
While in season, our days were structured and purposeful: practice, class, stretch, yoga, ice bath, sleep, eat, repeat.
That rhythm taught me something crucial, routine beats motivation every single time.
Whether in recovery, sport, or everyday life, consistency builds momentum, and momentum builds strength.
Lesson #4: Whatever you do, make it fun.
Don’t get so focused or regimented that you forget to enjoy the little things or the process. Life’s too short for that.
If your exercise routine feels stale, find a way to make it fun. If you’re tired of the same “healthy” meals, try a new recipe or turn it into a challenge.
Because nothing feels better than laughing with your teammates- both on the field and in life.
Lesson #5: Be coachable.
Be willing to learn. Make mistakes. Ask questions. Stay humble.
One of the best compliments you can receive is someone telling you that you’re “coachable.” Being coachable means staying mentally flexible, which is something that serves you in sports, in recovery, and in every chapter of life.
You don’t have to identify as an athlete to connect with these lessons. They apply to all of us. Soccer taught me so much more than I can capture in one post, but these five stand out as the most applicable.
Whether you’re navigating a life transition, healing from surgery, or just showing up for yourself day after day… remember: the same mindset that builds strength on the field (court, gym, etc) is the same one that builds resilience in recovery.
