When the final whistle blows, and the stadium lights dim, what comes next? You’ve dedicated years to your sport, mastered your craft, and pushed your limits. You’ve identified as an athlete for as long as you can remember. But now, as you hang up your jersey, you’re faced with a new challenge: figuring out what’s next. 

For many female athletes, the transition from the world of sports to the “real world” is a daunting task. The routine, the camaraderie, the adrenaline—it’s all you’ve known. Now, the prospect of redefining your identity and finding a new purpose might feel overwhelming, even paralyzing. But here’s the good news: your athletic career has equipped you with incredible skills that are transferable and valuable in any profession. It’s time to leverage them. 

But before you rush into the next thing, it’s crucial to take a step back and ask some important questions. This blog post will guide you through a step-by-step plan to help you figure out your purpose and align it with a profession that resonates with your goals, vision, and values.

1. Start with Why

Why did you start playing sports? What drove you to push your body and mind to their limits? Was it the thrill of competition? The desire to be part of a team? The joy of mastering a skill? Understanding your core motivations can give you insight into what might fulfill you in your post-athletic career.

Ask yourself:

• What aspects of being an athlete did I love the most?
• What values did sports instill in me that I hold dear?
• How do I want to feel in my next chapter? Accomplished? Creative? Impactful

2. Define Your Vision

Your vision is a picture of your ideal future. It’s the destination you’re aiming for, even if the path isn’t clear yet. Without a vision, you risk drifting, taking opportunities that might not align with your true desires.

Take some time to visualize:

• Where do I see myself in the next 5, 10, 20 years?
• What kind of life do I want to lead?
• Who do I want to impact or serve with my work?

Be as specific as possible. Paint a mental picture of your future life that excites you. Imagine a day in that life—what are you doing, who are you with, how do you feel?

3. Identify Your Values

Values are the principles that guide your decisions and actions. They are the non-negotiables that you must honor to feel fulfilled and authentic. When your work aligns with your values, you experience greater satisfaction and motivation.

Reflect on the following:

• What are my top five core values? (e.g., integrity, creativity, community, excellence, independence)
• How did these values show up in my athletic career?
• How do I want them to show up in my next career?

Knowing your values will help you evaluate potential career paths and workplaces to ensure they align with what’s most important to you.

4. Set Clear Goals

Goals give you direction and measurable targets to strive for. They are the stepping stones that bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be.

To set effective goals:

• Start with your long-term vision and work backward. What needs to happen in the next year to get you closer to your vision? What about the next six months? Next month?
• Use the SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
• Break down big goals into smaller, actionable steps. 

For example, if your goal is to start a business, break it down into smaller tasks like researching the industry, taking a relevant course, or finding a mentor.

5. Explore Your Options

With your goals, vision, and values in mind, it’s time to explore career options. Think broadly and be open to possibilities you might not have considered before. 

Consider:

• What careers align with my values and vision?
• What skills have I developed as an athlete that I can apply to a new career? (e.g., leadership, teamwork, discipline, resilience)
• What interests or hobbies do I have outside of sports that could turn into a profession?

This stage is about brainstorming and gathering information. Talk to people in different fields, shadow professionals, take online courses, and read up on industries that interest you.

6. Test the Waters

Before committing to a new career path, test the waters. You wouldn’t sign a long-term contract without first having a tryout, right? Treat your career transition the same way.

Ways to test your options:

• Take on internships, freelance projects, or part-time roles in fields that interest you.
• Volunteer for organizations or causes you care about.
• Start a side hustle or passion project.

These experiences will give you a taste of different professions and help you identify what truly resonates with you.

7. Seek Support and Mentorship

Transitioning to a new career is a journey, and you don’t have to do it alone. Seek out mentors who have walked a similar path, coaches who can offer guidance, and peers who can provide support.

Remember:

• Build a network of like-minded individuals who understand your journey.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or help when you need it.
• Consider joining groups or communities of retired athletes or career transitioners.

8. Embrace the Process

Lastly, remember that finding your purpose and profession is a process. It won’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. Embrace the uncertainty, and be patient with yourself. Celebrate small wins and learn from setbacks.

Transitioning from a life dedicated to sports to a new professional identity can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and discovery. You have the resilience, discipline, and determination that sports have taught you—now it’s time to apply those same qualities to discovering your next play.

Your life after sports is a blank canvas, ready to be filled with new passions, pursuits, and possibilities. By asking the right questions, aligning your goals, vision, and values, and taking a strategic approach, you can create a fulfilling and purposeful career that honors who you are and the athlete you once were. The skills, discipline, and mindset that made you a successful athlete are the same tools that will guide you to success in whatever you choose to do next.

It’s your game now. Play it your way.