Athletes don’t retire until they are 55 years of age; many retire before 30 or 40. This is a harsh reality, because the slow aging process will start to affect athletes when they reach late 20’s. The mind could stay young and healthy, but our body can only go so far. This is a challenge that many athletes need to deal with. Many sporting careers end naturally after a gratifying career, while other athletes need to retire permanently due to injuries and de-selection. It means that athletes need to undergo the transition process properly and adjust to the new way of life. Many times, athletes retire because they have reached their goals, such as obtaining numerous gold medals in Olympics and there is nothing left they could do.
Many athletes retire because they are getting old, while others need to take care of their muscle or skeletal injuries that can get worse with intense physical activities. However, it doesn’t mean that athletes can’t stay active physically and continue performing sports that are good at. Many athletes have different reasons to finally choose retirement. It is important for them to consider wisely about their motivation to retire. It should be caused by proper goals and athletes should know that the decision to retire could actually bring them to a positive direction. Issues related to self-esteem could contribute various difficulties in performance. There are actually many rewards that we can obtain in non-sporting life.
It is easy for former athletes to miss the everyday commitment related to competitive sports. However, this should be used as a constant reminder that they can use their ability to stay committed about non-sporting tasks in life. Athletes who are planning to retire should have a new focus and goal, this should allow them to make an easier transition. They may have confusion about a new direction in life and what they should do next. There are many responses related to retirement and despite the state of confusion, athletes should accept that retirement is part of the process. We should know that transition could happen very abruptly and this could come as a shock to many athletes. It means that athletes could need proper coaching to undergo the process.
Many athletes are concerned about the uncertainty of their future. This is compounded by the fact that many athletes don’t have the proper work experience and relevant qualification. Not many athletes manage to play in major and primary leagues. Athletes in minor leagues and lower divisions don’t make as many as top players who can earn millions each year. It means that athletes should assess the current income and determine whether they can save enough for their future. Insurance could also help athletes to ensure better future and they shouldn’t miss out the good opportunities to allow them achieve better things. Athletes should know what new identities they can take and how they could ensure success along the way.