Life Lesson I've learned from Figure Skating

I first authored a list of "skating's life lessons" back in 2013, in a note on Facebook. I've since decided to make it publicly available here (it's a growing list).

Every day I'm reminded of figure skating --- partly because I love it --- but also because the lessons it teaches me are so transferrable to life. I'm sure lots of other sports teach many of the same lessons, but for me, skating is what really hammers them home (especially when I fall a lot). Although these lessons are written in terms of skating, I'm confident everyone can understand how they apply to every day life. This list is not finished, and I don't think it ever will be, but I will add to it as I think of things :)

Life Lessons I learned from Figure Skating
  1. Share the ice
  2. When you fall down, pick yourself up
  3. If you want to improve and change, then you have to push past your comfort zone
  4. Surround yourself with motivating people
  5. Run every program like its a performance
  6. If something isn't working, then figure out why--- because the "why" will tell you how to fix it
  7. Being in the moment is incredibly empowering
  8. There is always going to be someone better than you--- don't waste your time comparing yourself to them, but do observe them, and learn from them.
  9. Remember to breath
  10. Sometimes someone else's music is playing. Give them their space and your applause.
  11. Make measureable short and long term goals, and check back to them often.
  12. Thank your coaches and your mentors, and especially your parents
  13. Don't get complacent. Every time you are on the ice, you have the opportunity to improve.
  14. (paraphrasing my friend Alex Hamel) "If you can put on a sparkly outfit, show up in front of thousands of people, dance on tiny blades of metal to ridiculous soundtracks, fall 5 times in 4 minutes and get up each time, then nothing should make you afraid."
  15. Sometimes the judges' opinions are hurtful, and may even seem wrong, but you must learn to not take their criticisms personally.
  16. Being nervous just means you care about what you're doing, and that's a good thing
  17. Trying a new jump, spin, or trick can instill fear because you don't have any experience doing it yet. But past experiences are still informative for new ones. Combine your fear with thoughtfulness, preparation, deliberation, and bravery for the best and safest outcome. Build from there.
  18. In the long run, what you will remember best is how you skated, and if you were happy with it.
  19. The best skating teams are rooted in respect and friendship
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