The Courage to Believe: What We Can Learn From Lindsey Vonn’s Comeback
As women in our 40s and beyond, the challenges we face often feel like scaling a mountain. And yet, there’s something profoundly inspiring about seeing someone like Lindsey Vonn - a global icon, Olympic gold medalist, and trailblazer - return to competitive skiing at 40, defying both physical and societal expectations.
Vonn’s comeback is about more than medals or glory. It’s a testament to self-belief and the courage to persevere, even when the odds seem insurmountable. After retiring in 2019 due to injury and pain, her return to skiing came after successful knee surgery and countless hours of physical therapy and training. In doing so, she’s broken the narrative that age or setbacks define our potential.
The Weight of Judgment
For someone in the public eye, the stakes are even higher. Every move, every stumble, is magnified under the relentless gaze of the media and fans. For many of us, the fear of judgment, whether from colleagues, family, or even ourselves, can be paralysing. Lindsey’s decision to put herself out there again, knowing the scrutiny she’d face, is a powerful reminder that courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear; it means showing up in spite of it.
This leads to an important question: How many of us hold back from pursuing something we want because we’re afraid of what others might think?
Leading By Example
If more women shared their stories - their attempts, their triumphs, and even their setbacks - we’d normalise trying. Not succeeding every time, but trying. The beauty of Lindsey’s story isn’t just in her comeback; it’s in her willingness to step back onto the mountain, knowing the world was watching.
Imagine the ripple effect if we all embraced that same mindset. If we spoke openly about the courses we’re taking, the goals we’re chasing, or the new skills we’re learning, how many other women would feel emboldened to do the same?
It Takes Grit, Not Just Talent
What Lindsey’s comeback also shows is that talent alone isn’t enough. At 40, competing in a sport that demands peak physical performance, she’s had to rely on grit, determination, and a deep well of self-belief. The same applies to us. Whether it’s returning to a passion, starting a new business, or learning to ski for the first time, the journey requires more than natural ability - it requires commitment, consistency, and resilience.
Shout It Out
So, here’s my challenge to you: What’s the one thing you’ve been holding back on? What’s that goal, dream, or passion project you’ve tucked away because you’re worried about failing - or worse, what people might think?
I’ll start. Last year, I made the decision to leave my job and start my own coaching business in my mid-40s. It wasn’t a decision I took lightly. The doubts came in waves: Was I too old to make such a big change? Would anyone want to work with me? Could I actually make it work?
But there was this quiet, persistent voice inside me that kept asking, If not now, when? I couldn’t ignore it. So, I took a deep breath, leaned into the belief that my skills and experience were enough, and made the leap.
Starting my coaching business meant stepping into the unknown, learning new skills, and putting myself out there in a way I never had before. There are moments when it feels overwhelming, and I still catch myself questioning if I’ve made the right choice. But every time I reflect, I see just how important that first step was.
Now, I work with incredible women who are navigating their own challenges, and I witness how my journey inspires them to believe in what’s possible for themselves. Taking the leap isn’t easy, but every single day reminds me it’s the most rewarding decision I’ve ever made.
Now it’s your turn. Whatever your mountain looks like, take the first step - and don’t be afraid to tell someone about it. Shout it out, own it, and inspire the women around you to do the same.
Final Thoughts
Lindsey Vonn’s story isn’t just about skiing; it’s about resilience, reinvention, and rewriting what’s possible at any age. Let’s take her lead, not just by admiring her, but by stepping up in our own lives. The more we do, the more we empower others to climb their mountains too.
You’ve built a lifetime of experience and skills - now it’s your time to shine. Take that leap, and remember: the best version of yourself is waiting on the other side of this decision.
