I recently watched the film Nyad. It’s based on a true story and is about 64-year-old Diana Nyad who swims for more than 2 days (53 hours) from Cuba to Florida, covering 110 miles.
I felt inspired and was reminded of 3 real-life lessons in her epic feet:
- Resilience
- Perseverance
- Humility
Nyad attempted to swim from Cuba to Florida 4 times before succeeding on her 5th attempt. It took her 3 years of training, determination, and perseverance. She was told that she was too old to do it; that she would not make it; and that sea animals would kill her.
In the last few months, I have left the corporate world to start my own business. I am answering the call to be a life coach, whilst still focusing on my other work skills and talents. I have received mixed reactions. Some are excited about my new adventure, others feel threatened, whilst still others are expecting me to fail.
It dawned on me that when we are faced with challenges in life, we can feel alone and vulnerable. It becomes important for us to identify and set boundaries. To protect our beliefs and visions. It becomes essential that the loudest cheerleader is ourselves. When the crowd stops cheering, we must strive to find that inner light to fuel us and move us forward. Knowing that the first foundation starts from within.
As I watched the movie, I witnessed Nyad struggle against external (and internal) forces. I was struck at how when she was at her biggest defeat – on her fourth failed attempt – she was left alone. Many of her friends gave up on her and abandoned her. This gave her true cause for self-reflection and made her realize that to fulfil her dream, she would need to engage a team of people to support her. She would need to approach her team in a new spirit – one of humility, understanding, listening and gratitude.
This is yet another important aspect to remind ourselves of each day. We can choose who we listen to and what guidance we follow. It becomes important to surround ourselves with those who are supportive and who genuinely want us to succeed. It is equally important to value the views of others, especially when they are aligned with our dreams.
Nyad was able to finally complete her dream to swim from Cuba to Florida on her fifth attempt. I believe we can learn resilience, perseverance, and humility from her. She is a real testament to the pursuit of our dreams, no matter our age.
Disclaimer: The above are my own personal views from watching the movie. I have never met Diana Nyad and my interpretations are from the movie and what is on the Internet about her.
