⁠Lessons for life from the Paralympics 2024

Summer 2024 in Paris and we watched in awe as the Paralympics unfolded showcasing incredible feats of determination, resilience, and skill. Beyond the medals and records, here are three life lessons we can all learn from these remarkable athletes.

Resilience and Adaptability

Curtis McGrath was serving as an Australian Army combat engineer in Afghanistan in 2012 when he stepped on an improvised explosive device, losing his right leg above the knee and his left leg below the knee. Despite these life-altering injuries, McGrath returned from the Paris Paralympics with his third consecutive gold medal in the men’s kayak. His journey exemplifies not only physical strength but also an extraordinary mental resilience. Crucially, like many other Paralympians, McGrath continues to push boundaries and consistently excel in his sport despite immense challenges. As an executive coach, I see clear parallels between these athletes and leaders in the corporate world, who must adapt to rapidly changing environments and overcome setbacks. The ability to bounce back, learn from failure, and lead by example is essential for long-term success, both in sports and in the corporate world.

The Power of Teamwork and Support Networks

Behind every Paralympian’s success is a powerful support system - coaches, trainers, team mates, family, and friends who help them push beyond their limits. Canadian rower Jacob Wasserman, survived the 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash that tragically claimed 16 lives. Left paralyzed from the waist down, Wasserman’s journey to the Paralympics was made possible by the unwavering encouragement of his support network, who helped him discover Para-rowing and pursue his athletic dreams. My own experience in the corporate world reflects that success is never a solo endeavour. Instead, building and nurturing strong teams and networks is crucial for streamlining decision-making and navigating complex challenges. Just as Paralympians thrive through the collective efforts of those around them, so too can leaders and organisations reach their full potential by fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support, aligned to a common set of values.

Vision and Purpose

At the core of every Paralympian is a vision and purpose that drives them towards their end goal, whether this be a medal or even just competing at Paralympic games. They use such vision and purpose as a tool to overcome their adversity and push their physical limits to the maximum. This sense of vision is a valuable lesson for professionals striving for success. In my coaching, I emphasise the importance of aligning personal values with organisational goals, creating a deeper sense of purpose. Much like Paralympians, professionals must have a clear vision and purpose to tap into, especially in challenging times, to ensure a sense of belonging and purpose in their work, resulting in improved performance and wellbeing. That’s a double Gold medal in my book.