From Olympics to TEDx: A Winning Mindset in Sports and Business
What does it take to win in both sports and business? Joey Lye, Olympic medalist and TEDx speaker, brings the answer: mindset. Her experience in high-pressure sports moments now fuels her coaching for leaders, showing how the same tools can drive success in business.
Key Takeaways
Practice mental control like a skill. Joey trained her brain the same way she trained her body, using flights and everyday anxiety as practice for big moments.
Awareness comes before change. Knowing your default reactions under pressure is the first step to controlling them.
Small, repeated habits matter most. Consistency in little things leads to excellence.
Notable Quotes
"Adapt and Thrive. That became my slogan, and eventually my business."
"Champions are made when you go to practice even when you don’t feel like it."
"Being excellent is doing small habits consistently."
Real-World Applications
Handling stage fright or public speaking anxiety:
Use Joey’s technique: create physical tension (like shrugging your shoulders), then release it. Follow with slow belly breaths and a calming mantra: “I’ve got this.”Daily mindset checks for leaders:
Set random reminders on your phone asking, “What’s your mindset right now?” Build the habit of checking your thoughts before big meetings or decisions.Hiring or coaching employees:
Look for athletes or team players. Their coachability, resilience, and teamwork often translate into standout performance in any role.
Joey Lye reminds us that elite performance isn’t magic. It’s mental discipline, practiced habits, and living by clear values. Whether you’re stepping onto a field or into a boardroom, your mindset will decide how you show up—and how you win.
Time Stamps:
00:45 Joey's Unique Olympic Experience
08:05 Techniques for Managing Pressure
20:14 Decision-Making Based on Core Values
32:26 Transitioning from Sports to Business Leadership
36:25 Olympic Preparation for Life
37:58 The Importance of Consistency and Small Wins
40:44 The Coachability of Athletes
Links Mentioned:
Joey Lye's Website: https://www.joey-lye.com/
About The Author
Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense.
Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.