Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words echo across generations, reminding us of the power of courage, resilience, and belief in ourselves. As young female athletes, you’re already proving that strength isn’t just about how fast you run or how high you jump—it’s about the faith you have in your dreams and your ability to work toward them, even when the path ahead isn’t entirely clear. My path hasn't been clear, but every day I make the choice to keep moving forward without knowing what the end may be.
On this MLK Day, let’s reflect on what it means to take that first step, especially when life feels uncertain or the challenges seem bigger than you are. Dr. King didn’t wait for perfect conditions to act; he stepped forward with courage, knowing that every small action creates ripples of change. The same principle applies to your journey as an athlete and a leader. Here are three lessons we can all take from Dr. King to empower our own paths:
1. Start Where You Are, With What You Have
You may not have everything figured out right now, and that’s okay. Whether you’re working toward making the varsity team, coming back from an injury, or juggling academics and athletics, remember that progress begins with a single step. Dr. King’s faith reminds us that it’s not about knowing every move ahead but trusting in the process and your own resilience. Greatness happens when you have the bravery to start. Everyone can admire a problem, or make excuses, but to truly be a leader or great, you must start and commit.
2. Believe in the Power of Your Voice
Dr. King believed in the strength of individuals to create change, no matter their age, gender, or background. As a young athlete, your voice matters. Stand up for your teammates, speak out for equality in sports, and inspire others by being unapologetically yourself. Leadership starts with confidence in your ideas and the courage to share them. Many of the greatest achievements in my career have come from young voices who believed in something and make it heard. At the school I was at, a young student decided that raising the Progress Flag would show that everyone belonged at the school. No adult or school board representative wanted to hear from me, but when they spoke, wow... complete silence and attention. Your voice matters and the world needs to hear it.
3. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Every time you take a step forward—even if it’s small—you’re closer to your goals. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and greatness comes from consistency. Dr. King’s vision of a better world wasn’t achieved in a day, and neither will your dreams be. Celebrate your wins, learn from setbacks, and keep climbing.
On this day, let’s honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by embracing his message of faith and action. Use his wisdom as a reminder that your dreams are valid and achievable, even when the journey ahead feels daunting. Remember, the courage to start is often the hardest part—and the most rewarding.
So, to all the fierce female athletes out there: lace up your shoes, take that first step, and keep climbing. Your future is waiting, one bold move at a time. 💪✨
Empowering girls to take bold steps toward their future, one staircase at a time. #GRLInitiative #MLKDay #Leadership
