Thriving in Life After Sports

Every athlete goes through it at some point when the playing days are over — athlete transition. Whether an athletic retirement is caused by being medically sidelined, not being good enough to continue to the next level, or aging out, there are common themes and pitfalls many athletes in transition experience. Today we’re having a conversation about “life after sports” . . . the good, the bad, and the ugly. Where does an athlete begin to channel that "inner competitor" to move forward? How do you figure out what’s next? What if you’ve lost your motivation and drive without your sport? How does “identity” play into all this? 

Today’s podcast guest is Taj Dashaun, a former athlete, now author, speaker, and athlete transition coach. When his football career ended, Taj struggled heavily with depression. Because he had been so focused on the game, he never fully developed a clear vision for his life. After several years of stumbling around in the emotional darkness of uncertainty, Taj began to take his eyes off of himself and focus on serving others. He now runs holistic programs for retired athletes who, like he once was, are struggling to adapt to life after the game. It's his personal mission and passion to help others overcome the fear, frustration and uncertainty associated with life post-athletics. 

Join us for this rich discussion! Whether you're an athlete going through this transition process yourself, or you're a coach, parent, or friend looking to support someone in this situation, this episode is for you.

Show Notes:
(3:32)  Taj’s own pitfalls and triumphs in athletic retirement 

(8:20)  Lack of purpose, uncertainty, and the “Who am I now?” question 

(12:05) Finding clarity in the “Who I want to become”

(16:54) How opening up our focus to serving others can help in the quest for what’s next

(21:56) How fueling our mind and body can help in the transition following athletic retirement 

(23:30) Approaching life as your sport

(26:26) How asking better questions will lead you to better answers 

(28:06) Self reflection and the value of asking for feedback from the people around you 

(32:36) How what you loved about your sport can offer clues as to where you will find fulfillment

(35:35) More on “life as your sport” 

(37:00) Auditing your circle

(40:05) Practical tips for drafting mentors

(45:04) Finding more resources from Taj

(46:25)  What if working with a life coach is not in the budget? 

(49:25) Final thoughts for athletes going through transition right now  

Finding Taj for more on Thriving After Sports: 

www.tajdashaun.com