Welcome to Life of an Extraordinary Athlete! I’m Sterling Sheffield, a former NFL player and All-American at the University of Maine. In this episode, we’re diving deep into a critical concept that not only affects athletes but high-achieving professionals and everyday people alike—the Emotional Cycle of Change. As we pursue our dreams and goals, especially in sports, understanding this cycle can make all the difference when navigating the ups and downs.
Whether you're recovering from an injury, transitioning to a new team, or facing a personal challenge, the emotional rollercoaster is real. This cycle is inevitable, and how you manage it will determine your success and fulfillment.
As we begin, I want to start with a quote from Robin Sharma: "Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end." This captures the essence of the Emotional Cycle of Change, which breaks down into five stages:
Uninformed Optimism: At the start of any new challenge or phase, you’re full of excitement. You’re pumped, ready to take on the world. As athletes, this is like signing with a new team or starting a new season. Everything seems possible, and you’re optimistic about your future. But beware, it’s easy to be blind to potential red flags when you're caught up in excitement.
Informed Pessimism: This is where things start to get real. You begin to see the challenges in front of you—setbacks, difficulties, and obstacles. Reality sets in. As a professional athlete, it could be realizing how tough your competition is, or maybe your body isn't performing at the level you expected. Frustration builds, and self-doubt creeps in.
The Valley of Despair: This is the toughest stage. It’s the emotional low point where you’re questioning everything—your abilities, your commitment, and your future. For athletes, this could come after an injury or a series of losses. The temptation to quit is at its highest, and many do. But this is the stage that separates the great from the average.
Informed Optimism: If you push through the Valley of Despair, you’ll emerge with a newfound sense of confidence. You’ve weathered the storm and are beginning to see results, even if they’re small. Progress becomes visible, and you start to believe again. Your hard work is paying off.
Success and Fulfillment: This is where all your efforts bear fruit. Whether it's winning a championship, hitting a personal best, or simply overcoming an injury, this stage is the reward for your perseverance.
A significant theme throughout this cycle is mindset. Your mindset will either make you or break you. If you approach challenges with a fixed mindset, thinking your talents are set in stone, you’ll crumble under pressure. On the other hand, a growth mindset will help you see setbacks as opportunities for growth.
Athletes like Adrian Peterson, who came back stronger after a severe injury, show us that perseverance, mental toughness, and embracing the process are essential for long-term success.
During my own journey, I faced the Valley of Despair multiple times—particularly during my senior year of high school when I tore my meniscus and was sidelined just as I was finally receiving offers from colleges. It was one of the lowest points of my life, but I refused to give up. I had to play with two knee braces and fight through not just physical challenges but the mental and emotional strain that comes with uncertainty.
What kept me going was the belief that I could still make it. I didn’t quit, even when the odds were stacked against me. That mindset helped me get through tough times and ultimately secure my place at the University of Maine.
One thing I want to stress is the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. During tough times, it can feel like you’re going through it alone, but that’s never true. Your community—whether it’s family, friends, coaches, or teammates—can make all the difference in helping you push through those dark moments.
No matter where you are in the Emotional Cycle of Change, remember that growth happens when you push through tough moments. Success isn’t just about the final outcome; it’s about the strength and resilience you build along the way.
I want to leave you with a final thought: Champions don’t become champions in the ring—they are merely recognized there. The work, the mindset, the fight—it all happens long before the spotlight hits.
So, whether you’re at the beginning of your journey, stuck in a low point, or on the verge of a breakthrough, remember: Keep going. Keep fighting. And keep growing.
Thanks for tuning in to Life of an Extraordinary Athlete. Stay humble, stay hungry, and most importantly—stay extraordinary.