Beyond the Game: Joanna Lohman on Authenticity and Resilience

Joanna Lohman is a globally recognized keynote speaker, sports diplomat, mental performance coach, and a former professional soccer player for the Washington Spirit. Joanna shares her powerful journey from the pitch to the podium, offering insights into her transition from elite athlete to transformational speaker and coach.

Joanna dives deep into the pursuit of potential, the power of authenticity, and the dangers of early sports specialization for kids. She reflects on the mentors and meaningful moments that shaped her path, while challenging conventional definitions of success by championing process over outcome and values over validation.

Drawing from her acclaimed book Raising Tomorrow’s Champions, Joanna shares inspiring stories from the world of women’s soccer, offering lessons for athletes, parents, and anyone striving to live with purpose. The episode wraps with heartfelt advice on how to find joy, stay grounded, and raise the next generation to be boldly and unapologetically themselves. 

Takeaways:

• Diversify Your Work and Play: Joanna highlights the importance of engaging in diverse activities. Her multifaceted career and early involvement in multiple sports underlined how a variety of experiences contributed to her success. Embracing a range of activities can help build a more robust skillset.
• Focus on Internal Drive, Not External Rewards: Joanna discusses the significance of focusing on internal satisfaction rather than chasing external achievements like medals or scholarships. This mindset fosters true passion and performance. Cultivate a love for the process and personal growth, rather than fixating on the end result.
• Value of Authenticity: Joanna's approach to life and career underscores the importance of authenticity. Being true to oneself led to her best performances on the field and formed deeper connections with fans. Make authenticity a core value. It builds genuine connections and leads to more fulfilling and impactful experiences.
• Resilience in Adversity: Joanna's journey through failed leagues and personal challenges illustrates the value of resilience. Struggles can lead to strength and clarity in one's purpose. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and build resilience. They often lead to significant breakthroughs.
• Reduce Sports Specialization: For young athletes, Joanna advises against early sports specialization and encourages a more diversified athletic background to prevent burnout and build overall athleticism. Encourage children to play multiple sports, as this builds comprehensive physical skills and reduces injury risk.
• Importance of Self-Reflection: Joanna emphasizes self-reflection and understanding personal values to live a fulfilling life. Take time for self-reflection and define your core values. Journal or meditate to understand who you want to be and how to align daily actions with your values.
• Limit Social Media: Joanna points out the negative impact of excessive social media on self-esteem and values. Limiting social media use can help maintain focus and mental well-being. Reduce time spent on social media to avoid negative influences and to stay focused on personal growth and real-life interactions.

Quote of the Show:

• "When we live in our values and we speak our truth, we are happier people with deeper satisfaction and enjoyment and meaning, and those are the three key elements to happiness."

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannalohman/  
• Personal Website: https://joannalohman.com/  
• Book: https://rtcsoccer.com/