Evolving Beyond Your Sport

Earlier this year Serena Williams announced that she would be leaving the world of tennis following the US Open. She wrote a Farewell to Tennis in Vogue Magazine announcing her retirement in her own words. She writes about the challenging decision to leave behind the sport to focus on what is coming next in her life, expanding her family. Read her story HERE.

As a NCAA collegiate athlete, a significant part of your identity is your sport. You probably started playing sports at a young age, were always perceived by others as an athlete, and would identify yourself as an athlete. With this identity comes strength, resiliency, dedication, and so many other positive factors. However, what happens when that chapter comes to a close, whether that be due to a career ending injury, graduating from college, or even after playing a decade or two at the professional level?

What is Identity - What Makes Up your Identity – What Influences Identity?

According to Psychology Today, “identity encompasses the memories, experiences, relationships, and values that create one’s sense of self”. Through this worldview, our identity and perspectives are formed over time. Within this sense of self, we hold on to certain values and beliefs that are significant to us and that guide our behavior, thoughts, and emotions. Our identity is also derived from other attributes such as gender, racial and ethnic identifiers, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, age, and religion. Some of these attributes may be extremely salient to us, while others are less important. Furthermore, the roles we engage in within day-to-day life also contribute to the construction of your identity.  What we spend the most time doing and engaging in will play a larger role in making us who we are.

What feelings might you have if your identity is uncertain?

Uncertainty in terms of identity and sense of self can bring about strong emotions. Feelings of anxiety, confusion, frustration, helplessness, and low self-esteem can fog your mind and make it challenging to sort out your identity, purpose, and who you are. For student-athletes it is very common for a vast portion of your identity to be immersed in your sport. However, what is your identity beyond your sport?

How to Develop a Strong Sense of Self:

In looking to strengthen your identity there are various tools and activities that you can engage in:

1.      Value Card Sort / Define your Values

In defining your values, you can begin to reflect on who you are and live a more meaningful life.

2.      Spend Time with Yourself – Connect with Yourself – Reflect

The more time you spend connecting with yourself and reflecting on your life, the more your identity can grow, strengthen, and solidify. Think about your identity from a strengths-based approach and ask yourself questions such as “what do I like about myself” and “what am I great at”. You can also reflect through narrative exploration in which you focus on your life story. Lastly, as you become more and more comfortable in your identity and sense of self, you will begin to find self-compassion and acceptance in who you are.

3.      Make Your Own Choices & Decisions

Through the process of making your own choices and decisions you have more autonomy and control over your life. Through this you can develop a stronger sense of agency in which you have the capacity to influence your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. You may want to ask yourself if the choices you are making now reflect what is in your own interests.

4.      Vocational & Personality Assessments

Different assessments can bring about raising self-awareness and allow you to get to know yourself better. Vocational assessments such as the STRONG Interest Inventory allow for individuals to focus on their strengths and interests when it comes to choosing a career path. Other assessments such as Myers Briggs and Enneagram tests can provide insight into personality traits and characteristics.

For support and guidance throughout your college career as an LSU student-athlete, reach out to your resources. It’s often the hardest step, but the most rewarding.

Sport Psychology & Counseling: GeauxBeWell@lsu.edu