Welcome back to another exciting episode of the PerformHappy Podcast! Today, I have the privilege of interviewing the incredible Megan Ray, a third-year Division One gymnast at UC Davis. Megan is not just an exceptional athlete but also a genuinely kind-hearted individual. In this episode, we’ll delve into Megan’s life, her journey in gymnastics, and discover the inspiring lessons she’s learned along the way.
One of the most remarkable takeaways from my conversation with Megan was the revelation that even the best athletes experience moments of insecurity. It’s easy to think that the world-class gymnasts we admire never doubt themselves, but Megan’s story reminds us that insecurity is a shared experience. So, if you’re feeling insecure, remember, you’re not alone. Megan’s openness about her own insecurities is a testament to her authenticity and the human side of her journey.
During our interview, Megan shared her personal journey of learning to trust herself. This process was not without its challenges, but it’s a vital part of any athlete’s growth. Megan’s story reminds us that self-doubt is a hurdle that can be overcome through dedication and perseverance. Her experiences offer hope and encouragement to anyone facing similar struggles in their own lives, whether they’re athletes or not.
A significant part of Megan’s journey involved finding the “secret sauce” that helped her reach her dreams. For her, this secret sauce was discovering the right coach. Megan openly discussed her transition from hating the balance beam to falling in love with it, all thanks to the guidance and support of a coach who understood her unique needs. Her story illustrates the importance of finding the right mentor or teacher who can make a world of difference in one’s pursuit of greatness.
Megan Ray’s journey in the world of gymnastics is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and the importance of finding the right guidance. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for everyone striving to achieve their dreams, no matter how insurmountable they may seem. Through her experiences, Megan teaches us that greatness can be achieved by embracing our vulnerabilities and seeking the right support system.
In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Megan talk about:
00:00 Megan’s Journey to College Gymnastics and Overcoming Confidence Struggles.
06:59 Perfectionism in gymnastics.
11:09 Mental Hurdles and Finding Self-Worth Amidst the Pressure.
15:37 Navigating Burnout.
20:01 Tailoring Success: How Megan Modified her Gymnastics Routines for Confidence.
24:48 Confidence-Building Strategies.
30:15 Building Mental Toughness and Trust for Gymnasts
36:36 The Importance of Self-Talk.
“Your mental health is worth so much more than your scores.” Megan Ray
