By Jenna Hadden
Let’s talk about Simone Biles, a name that’s synonymous with greatness in the world of gymnastics. She’s not just a champion; she’s the embodiment of what it means to be relentless in pursuit of excellence. After Tokyo 2020, where she courageously stepped back to prioritise her mental health, many would have understood if she chose to retire, resting on her laurels. But that’s not who Simone Biles is. Instead, she returned to the 2024 Paris Olympics, not just to compete, but to further cement her legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
So, what can we learn from Simone Biles’ journey?
1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Simone Biles’ withdrawal from several events in Tokyo 2020 was met with mixed reactions. Some praised her for prioritising her mental health, while others questioned her decision. But here’s the thing: true greatness isn’t just about winning when everything is going your way; it’s about how you handle the challenges. Biles didn’t let the criticism or the pressure deter her. Instead, she took the time to rebuild herself, both mentally and physically, returning stronger in 2024. That’s a lesson for all of us: setbacks don’t define you—your response to them does.
2. Never Rest on Your Laurels
Biles could have easily retired after Tokyo 2020 with her legacy intact. She’d already achieved more than most athletes could dream of. But she wasn’t satisfied with just being great—she wanted to be the greatest. By returning in 2024 and adding more medals to her collection, Biles showed that true champions are never done. They’re always looking for the next challenge, the next mountain to climb. This is a mindset we can all apply to our own lives, whether in business, sports, or personal endeavours. Never be content with where you are—always strive for more.
3. The Importance of Mental and Physical Preparation
Biles’ return wasn’t just a story of mental resilience; it was also about physical preparation. She didn’t just show up in Paris expecting to win because of her past successes. She put in the work, trained harder, and pushed herself to new limits. It’s a reminder that past victories don’t guarantee future success—you’ve got to keep working, keep improving, and keep pushing yourself. In business, this translates to continuous learning and development. The market doesn’t care about your past successes; it cares about what you bring to the table today.
4. Inspiring the Next Generation
Finally, Biles’ journey is about more than just her own success. By returning to the Olympics and performing at such a high level, she’s inspiring the next generation of athletes. She’s shown young gymnasts—and indeed, all young people—that it’s okay to struggle, it’s okay to take a step back, but it’s never okay to give up. In leadership, this is crucial. It’s not just about what you achieve, but about how you inspire others to achieve their own greatness.
Simone Biles is a living legend, not just because of her medals, but because of the mindset she embodies. She teaches us that greatness isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. And it’s a journey that requires resilience, continuous effort, and a willingness to face challenges head-on. So, whether you’re running a business, leading a team, or just trying to be the best version of yourself, take a page out of Simone Biles’ playbook. Never settle, always push forward, and remember that the only limits that matter are the ones you set for yourself.
Jenna Hadden 