Retiring from sports, especially at a high level, can be a difficult change marked by changes in your identity, purpose, and social connections. In the previous blog, we delved into the psychology of the retiring athletes. A lot of athletes find it hard to redefine themselves outside of their sport and they need help with this process.
Facing the end of one’s athletic career can be difficult, but understanding what to anticipate and preparing for it can help make the transition easier. All athletes must accept the fact that their athletic careers will come to an end one day, and they will have to start a new chapter in their lives. Some athletes may make this shift sooner than others; for example, New Zealand’s Julie Brougham competed in dressage at the Olympic Games in Rio 2016 at the age of 62, but every athlete will eventually transition to a new job, vocation, or stage of life.
This can be a terrifying concept, especially because many full time athletes will have little to no experience with a full-time job, and some may have lost out on college or university owing to athletic obligations. In such a scenario, there could be double pressure of handling the emotional changes after retirement as well as of navigating life. The difficulty of this transition can be affected by things like their willingness to retire, financial planning, and the strength of their athletic identity.
Career transitions can be defined as either deliberate, such as when an athlete decides it is time to move on, or unplanned and unexpected, such as when an athlete is injured or there is any inevitable factor involved. However, these situations need not be completely uncontrollable. Certain strategies can help athletes cope with life changes in a better way and also plan their future in a secure way.
Some strategies that can help athletes plan a better future for themselves:
Early Planning:
Early planning involves accepting the fact that a sporting career will eventually come to an end. It is only after acceptance that one can plan ahead in terms of the practical aspects that will help one sustain. Developing skills and interests outside of sports during an athletic career can help in easing the transition.
Support Systems:
Building strong social networks and seeking professional support, such as therapy or career counseling, is crucial. Counselling can help substabtially in dealing with handling the emotions that come up as a part of retirement. Support systems like
Redefining Identity:
Exploring new hobbies, passions, and career paths can help athletes redefine themselves and find new meaning.
Utilizing Transferable Skills:
Athletes can leverage skills like teamwork, discipline, and resilience in new professional settings.
Seeking Mentorship:
Connecting with former athletes who have successfully transitioned can provide valuable guidance and support.
Focus on Wellness:
Maintaining physical and mental health through exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management is essential.
Continued Involvement:
Staying involved in the sports community, whether as a coach, mentor, or commentator, can provide a sense of belonging and purpose.
Over the years we have seen many athletes turn to sports related fields after retiring as a player. Cricketers are seen getting into commentary or broadcast, some athletes get into coaching or related fields. There are many examples such as Maria Sharapova, Kobe Bryant who have established their own businesses.
Retirement undoubtedly comes as a challenge in all aspects of life, emotions run high, as there could be dilemmas about identity, career, finances, family and so on. However, by planning ahead in time, making arrangements for the future, asking for and taking help from the support systems present one can effectively manage these transitions.
