Against all Odds: Inspiration from the Olympics Champions

If you’ve been tuning in to the Olympics, you know how amazing it is to watch these athletes go for gold.

But beyond the medals and records, what really stands out is their courage—the kind we can all channel in our own lives, no matter what we’re facing.

Let’s look at two athletes whose stories really hit home and remind us why it’s so important to show up with courage every day.

Missy Franklin: Remembering Why You Started

Missy Franklin became a household name as a teenager when she won four gold swimming medals at the 2012 London Olympics. She was the picture of joy and success. But by the 2016 Rio Games, things were different.

Missy didn’t qualify for the finals in her individual events, and it shook her to the core. She later shared that she had lost her love for swimming, feeling like she was competing more out of fear than passion.

Missy’s story is a powerful reminder that we all need to stay connected to our “why.” It’s easy to get caught up in what others expect from us, but real fulfillment comes from doing what we love for ourselves, not just to meet someone else’s standards.

So, whether you’re tackling a big project at work or working on a personal goal, make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons—your reasons.

Michela Moioli: Turning Setbacks into Comebacks

Michela Moioli’s journey to Snowboarding Olympic gold wasn’t a straight path. In 2014, she was all set to compete in the Winter Olympics when a knee injury sidelined her dreams.

For many, that could’ve been the end. But Michela didn’t let it stop her. She spent the next four years rebuilding herself, both physically and mentally, to come back stronger. And she did—winning Italy’s first-ever gold medal in Snowboard Cross at the 2018 Olympics.

Michela’s story is all about resilience. Life will throw curveballs, but it’s how we respond that makes the difference. Her journey teaches us that even when things don’t go as planned, we have the power to pick ourselves up, keep going, and maybe even find some joy along the way.

Your Courage, Your Story

What I’m taking away from Missy and Michela’s stories is this: showing up with courage isn’t just for Olympians—it’s for all of us. Whether you’re facing a tough day, working towards a dream, or just trying to get through a challenging moment, remember that courage isn’t about having no fear—it’s about moving forward despite it.

Today, take a step, however small, towards whatever it is you’ve been hesitating to do. Trust that you have the strength to handle whatever comes your way, and remember that sometimes, the greatest victories come when we push through our fears and doubts. If these Olympians can do it, so can you.

Stay Courageous,

Joping

Joping is a Certified Self-Leadership Coach and a solopreneur in the making. She writes about everything in between intention and action, and believe courage makes the biggest difference.