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GRL Idea Feed

Check out my content where take deep dives into a variety of topics

Keep paving the road…
Lauren Young Lauren Young

Keep paving the road…

Last night, I stepped onto the pickleball court as the only woman in a group of 11 men. When I arrived, the owner of the facility—a kind and inspiring woman—told me she’d been excited to meet me. She admired that I was holding my own in a male-dominated space, and her words stayed with me throughout the game.

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Not another body positivity post…
body image, strength, size, trolls Lauren Young body image, strength, size, trolls Lauren Young

Not another body positivity post…

Being a female athlete isn’t just about victories or stats—it’s about embracing what your body can do in a world that sometimes focuses too much on how it looks. In this post, we dive into inspiring stories from Audi Crooks, Drew Afualo, and Ilona Maher, who redefine strength and athleticism, alongside my own journey of learning to celebrate my body. Whether you’re battling insecurities, dealing with student-section criticism, or navigating self-doubt, this article will remind you why your body is your greatest tool. Read more to rise above the noise and reclaim your power!

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Crushing Finals: Your Ultimate Survival Guide
academics, studying, student-athletes, classroom Lauren Young academics, studying, student-athletes, classroom Lauren Young

Crushing Finals: Your Ultimate Survival Guide

Finals season is here, and while it can feel overwhelming, it’s totally possible to conquer your exams and projects without sacrificing your sanity. With the right strategies, mindset, and a little bit of self-care, you’ll come out on the other side stronger (and maybe even proud of yourself!). Here’s your go-to guide for absolutely crushing finals.

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Powered down, to recharge.
anxiety, mental health, screen time Lauren Young anxiety, mental health, screen time Lauren Young

Powered down, to recharge.

Yesterday, anxiety had me completely unsettled—my brain wouldn’t stop racing, my clothes felt uncomfortable, and I couldn’t focus. But by turning off my phone at 6 p.m., being mindful and present with my family, coloring, and going to bed early, I found calm and clarity. Waking up refreshed, I realized how small changes can make a big difference. Read about my experience and how you can try it too on The GRL Initiative!

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How to Use Your Sundays to Make Your Week Amazing: Tips for Female Student-Athletes
sunday, meal prep, life prep, schedules Lauren Young sunday, meal prep, life prep, schedules Lauren Young

How to Use Your Sundays to Make Your Week Amazing: Tips for Female Student-Athletes

Discover how to transform your Sundays into a powerful foundation for a successful week! This guide for female student-athletes shares practical tips for planning your schedule, prepping meals, and organizing gear. Learn how to partner with your parents and find moments of joy to recharge before the busy week ahead. Whether it’s reflecting on your goals, filling your joy bucket, or setting yourself up for success, these strategies will help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to tackle anything Monday brings.

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Finding Belonging in a Third Space
clubs, theater, drama, athlete, coach, advisor, director, parents Lauren Young clubs, theater, drama, athlete, coach, advisor, director, parents Lauren Young

Finding Belonging in a Third Space

Not home. Not school. But that third space.

Where do you go to feel seen, valued, and appreciated? For Vermont’s student-athletes, having a coach or advisor who cares about them as people (not just athletes) can change everything. A third space is where you can truly be yourself, and if it doesn’t exist yet… here’s your sign to create it.

Start the club. Build the team. Find your people. Your vibe will attract your tribe.

✨ Need inspo? We’re talking all about third spaces and how to create your own over on the blog (link in bio). Let’s build communities where we all belong.

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January: A Complex Month for GRLs

January: A Complex Month for GRLs

It’s a month of big goals and fresh starts… but it’s also dark, cold, and exhausting. 😅 Let’s be real: the pressure to have it all figured out can be a lot. So here’s your reminder: it’s OK to rest. It’s OK to take it slow. And it’s 100% OK to not buy into the “New Year, New Me” hype.

💡 Need some inspo? We’re sharing realistic ways to make January less overwhelming over on our blog (link in bio). Spoiler: small steps > big pressure.

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Parent Post: GRL Dads… You matter.
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Parent Post: GRL Dads… You matter.

Dads, your role in your daughter’s life goes far beyond the sidelines. She needs you to see her as a person first, an athlete second, and to be there for her—always. From celebrating her worth beyond her performance to leaning in and listening without judgment, your love, actions, and words shape her confidence and self-belief.

This post dives into what your daughter truly needs from you: a consistent, supportive presence, someone who helps her see her value, and a dad who shows up every day with love and respect.

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Feeling Like the New Kid Again: Embracing Uncertainty in New Situations

Feeling Like the New Kid Again: Embracing Uncertainty in New Situations

We’ve all been there—stepping into a new group, team, or situation and feeling like the odd one out. It’s uncomfortable, but it’s also a normal part of growth. Even as a 40-something woman working in sports, I find myself feeling unsure in new spaces all the time.

The key? Learning how to ground yourself and embrace the discomfort. Here are some of the strategies I use

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Buzz word: Mental Health, what is it?

Buzz word: Mental Health, what is it?

Your mental health matters as much as your physical health. 💛 Some quick tips: rest isn’t lazy, set boundaries that protect your energy, practice gratitude, move your body, and surround yourself with uplifting people. It’s okay to not be okay. Take care of yourself and don’t hesitate to reach out for help—you’re never alone. 🫶 Let’s normalize prioritizing mental health, one step at a time. #MentalHealthMatters #SelfCare #GenZ"

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Self-Care for Introverts: Recharge After a Social Marathon

Self-Care for Introverts: Recharge After a Social Marathon

Introverts, this one’s for you! If you’ve just endured a weekend full of social events and nonstop energy, it’s time to recharge. Learn how to protect your energy, embrace quiet time, and prioritize self-care without guilt. From solo walks to saying “no” when you need a break, this guide will help you reset and feel like yourself again.

➡️ Read more to discover practical tips for recharging and thriving as an introvert. 💕 #SelfCareIsKey

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Building Open Communication: Creating Safe Spaces for Your Daughter

Building Open Communication: Creating Safe Spaces for Your Daughter

Parenting a Gen Z athlete means balancing support, guidance, and tough decisions—all while creating a space where your daughter feels safe to be vulnerable. This blog explores how to foster open communication, build trust, and ensure your daughter knows she’s valued for who she is, not just her performance.

➡️ Read more to learn actionable tips on listening, modeling vulnerability, and making your relationship her greatest support system. 💕✨

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What Your Athlete Really Needs From You (Hint: It’s Not More Critiques)
Lauren Young Lauren Young

What Your Athlete Really Needs From You (Hint: It’s Not More Critiques)

Your daughter doesn’t need another coach or critic—she needs you. This heartfelt blog dives into the pressures Gen Z female athletes face and what they truly need from their parents: unconditional love, support, and a safe space to grow. Learn how to shift from offering critiques to celebrating effort, listening without judgment, and being her biggest cheerleader.

➡️ Read more to discover how you can strengthen your bond and help her thrive both on and off the field. 💕✨

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Daring to Be Bold: Putting Yourself Out There Even When It’s Not Always Sunny
Dare, Bold, Challenge yourself, Grow Lauren Young Dare, Bold, Challenge yourself, Grow Lauren Young

Daring to Be Bold: Putting Yourself Out There Even When It’s Not Always Sunny

Have you ever found yourself in a room where your voice felt small, where raising your hand felt like an act of courage? I have. It’s not easy putting yourself out there, especially when the odds feel stacked against you. But daring to be bold—raising your hand, speaking up, and showing up—is how we create change, even when it’s uncomfortable.

In this post, I share a deeply personal experience about stepping into a room where I didn’t quite fit, trying to contribute, and facing the frustrating reality of being unseen. It’s a reminder that forging a path forward isn’t always sunny, but it’s necessary.

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Avoiding the Parent Trap: When Your Identity Becomes Tied to Their Success

Avoiding the Parent Trap: When Your Identity Becomes Tied to Their Success

As a parent, it’s natural to feel proud of your student-athlete’s accomplishments. But what happens when her wins (or losses) start to feel like a reflection of your worth? This heartfelt blog explores the "Parent Trap"—when your identity becomes tied to your child’s success—and offers actionable tips to refocus on what truly matters: her growth, happiness, and love for the game.

➡️ Read more to learn how to support your daughter while letting her lead her own journey. 💕

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Stay Present, Play Strong: Mindfulness Practices for Young Women

Stay Present, Play Strong: Mindfulness Practices for Young Women

Feeling overwhelmed as a student-athlete? Mindfulness might just be your secret weapon! From quick breathing exercises to visualization techniques, this blog shares easy practices to help you stay calm under pressure, improve focus, and boost your mental well-being.

Discover how just a few minutes of mindfulness can make a big difference in your game—and your life. 💕

➡️ Read more and start building your mental superpower today! ✨

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