We have all heard about Simone Biles getting the “twisties” at the Olympic Games in Tokyo. The “twisties” is a situation that causes gymnasts to lose their sense of space and direction while performing in the air. When Simone got the “twisties” during the 2020 Olympics, she stepped away from gymnastics for a couple of years; took care of her mental health; and worked her way back into the gym when she felt she was ready. When she returned, she performed better than ever. So, what can we entrepreneurs take away from Simone’s experience?
Understanding the Business “Twisties”
In business, we can experience our own version of the “twisties.” There are times when we feel lost, overwhelmed, and unable to navigate our way through challenges. This can manifest as burnout, decision fatigue, or a lack of motivation. Just like in gymnastics, these moments can be disorienting and paralyzing, affecting our performance and overall well-being.
Embrace a Pause
Simone’s first step was recognizing the need to take a pause from gymnastics. For entrepreneurs, this means acknowledging when we are facing our own “twisties” and giving ourselves permission to take a step back. It might feel counterintuitive, especially in a culture that glorifies constant hustle and productivity, but taking a break can be crucial for long-term success. It could be a short vacation, a sabbatical, or simply reducing your workload temporarily, pausing allows for much-needed rest and reflection.
Prioritize Your Mental Health
Simone Biles’ focus on her mental health was a pivotal part of her recovery. As business owners, our mental health is just as important as our physical health. This might mean seeking professional help, such as therapy or coaching, practicing mindfulness, or finding a support network of fellow entrepreneurs. By prioritizing mental health, we can build resilience and better manage stress.
Return with a Plan
When Simone returned to gymnastics, she did so with a clear plan and renewed focus. Similarly, when we return from our self-imposed pause, having a strategic plan in place can help us navigate the path forward. This plan might include setting new goals, redefining your business strategy, or implementing changes to improve work-life balance.
Embrace Continuous Improvement
Simone’s return to gymnastics wasn’t just about getting back to where she was before; it was about performing better than ever. For entrepreneurs, this means embracing a mindset of continuous improvement. Learn from the challenges you’ve faced, adapt, and strive to improve. This could involve up-skilling, seeking a mentor, or exploring new opportunities for growth.
By embracing the pause, prioritizing mental health, rediscovering your passion, returning with a plan, and committing to continuous improvement, you can navigate your own business “twisties” and emerge stronger and more resilient. Remember, it’s not about never experiencing challenges; it’s about how we respond to them and use them as opportunities for growth.
Love and Soul Always, Kawania
