Man That Can with Lachlan Stuart AFL Dream to Rock Bottom - How Brayden Ainsworth Rebuilt His Life | #647
Brayden Ainsworth shares his powerful journey from AFL footballer to mental health advocate after being hospitalized with anorexia. His story reveals how losing his athletic identity forced him to discover his true self and rebuild a life with deeper meaning and purpose.
• Being delisted from West Coast Eagles led to a complete loss of identity and control
• Struggled with the transition as football had been his entire purpose and self-definition
• Developed anorexia as a way to maintain control when everything else felt uncertain
• Hospitalisation became the turning point for self-discovery and redefining personal values
• Found new purpose helping others through mental health advocacy and connection
• Learned to value kindness, empathy and genuine connection over traditional success metrics
• Now setting new goals in endurance sports while maintaining a healthier perspective
• Most meaningful realization: "You're more than your title"
• Key questions for anyone feeling empty despite success: Why are you doing what you're doing? Is it worth what it's costing you?
If you're struggling with identity or purpose, remember you are more than what you do. Focus on being an A-grade person rather than just achieving A-grade performance in your field.
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Do Something Today To Be Better For Tomorrow