As athletes, we are phenomenal at handling change and adversity. For years, we trained our bodies for our sport and, most importantly, our minds to adapt and overcome changes.
I’m realizing how much I prepared for the changes in my game, so much so that no changes caught me by surprise. I was prepared to stay positive no matter how many runs we fell behind, balls were dropped, errors made, or home runs hit off me. I knew how to bounce back after striking out or getting chewed out by my coach.
But how do I bounce back from the changes and adversity I couldn’t prepare for? How do I reputation to my foundation when the foundation itself has changed?
It’s been 4 years since 2020, and the world literally stopped. But life didn’t stop; instead, massive changes happened for all of us in what felt like a vacuum.
In these past four years, I’ve become a mother x 3, moved in with my partner, experienced massive friendship changes, traveled the world, endured body and hormonal changes, got laid off, decided not to return to corporate America, and probably some other things I can’t remember at six months pregnant. I find myself looking for the Morgan I once knew, realizing she may no longer exist.
Now, what the hell am I supposed to do with this revelation, and why didn’t anyone prepare me for this?
Ultimately, figuring this out is my responsibility, and all I can do is use the tools I was given in sports to help me beyond the game. Here’s what I’m doing.
Remember You Are Not Alone
Our feelings are exaggerated when we feel like we are the only ones going through. The truth is, we are all confused as hell and figuring life out. Some people may look like they have everything figured out and don’t have a clue about their next move. Then some people do have “everything figured out,” but they 1000% had to overcome periods of uncertainty and confusion, and all we are witnessing, is them on the other side. Who’s to say YOU or I won’t make it to the other side, too?
2. Not Being Arrogant
It’s arrogant to think things won’t work out for you even if you believe and put forth action towards overcoming. It’s arrogant to think manifestation, hard work, prayer, or consistency (or a combination of all) can work for everyone but you. You’re the different one… the laws of the universe or religion or whatever your belief system applies to everyone else, BUT you?!?! You’re the special one?… Not only is that false, but it is also arrogant as hell. Don’t be arrogant. Believe that if good things and overcoming can happen for others, it can damn sure happen for you.
3. Knowing that the game (life) can change in an instant. Keep going!
During my senior year in college, we were playing South Alabama, and we were down by 5 in the 6th, and it was looking grim for us. But the game wasn’t over… even though some of the freshmen were crying and telling me, “It was great playing with you.” Instead of cursing them out for giving up before the game was over. I went up to bat and got on base, and eventually scored. A couple of batters later, the bases were loaded, and one of my favorite teammates hit a grand slam. In a matter of 30 minutes, it went from my last game to a victory I will never forget. Believe your life can change in a matter of 30 minutes because it can. Remember that the game is not over!
4. Goals and Gratitudes
My high school coach had us write Goals and Grats before each practice and game to share with the team. It could be anything. Somedays, we were annoyed with the task, but looking back, that was one of the most influential requirements I ever had to endure throughout my softball career. Taking the time to list my gratitudes made me appreciate my life. It took me out of a pessimistic mindset and taught us how to be grateful. Hearing other people’s gratitudes heightened this. Bringing goals into perspective reminded me of what was “enough.” It stopped us from always pushing our goalposts back. Every day, we had an opportunity to feel like we won, even if it was just within. I’m practicing writing out my goals and gratitude when I feel low, confused, or unsure.
Lastly, I give myself the grace to be hormonal, pregnant, and tired. I feel unmotivated and nervous about life with three kids under three. These feelings are okay. I don’t have to be on top of everything, and I’m not required to always be certain. Also, a really good cry in the shower helped me in high school, college, and life. Don’t skip those, lol.
That’s all I have for now. Writing this out was cathartic and necessary. I know if it was helpful for me, it is also helpful for someone else.
I will continue to update this list as I see fit!
Morgan
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