'Training was running away from the issues I had': Caitlyn Jenner
Dec 25, 2023
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Caitlyn Jenner, the 1976 Olympic Decathlon Champion, shares stories about dyslexia, gender dysphoria, and the challenges of success. She reflects on the aftermath of winning gold, navigating gender dysphoria in the entertainment industry, and life after deciding not to transition. Jenner also discusses lessons from the Olympics and her desire to leave a positive impact on society.
True happiness comes from being fully present in activities that allow us to 'lose ourselves' and shed our sense of self.
Leading by example and embracing determination and self-confidence are key to achieving personal and athletic success.
Overcoming obstacles and building resilience, such as dyslexia, can shape character and contribute to personal growth and achievements.
Deep dives
Finding Happiness Beyond Success
The podcast episode explores the idea that success does not always lead to happiness. The speaker emphasizes that true happiness comes from the experience of being fully present in activities that allow us to 'lose ourselves' and shed our sense of self. These moments of 'flow' can be found in various activities like sports, music, conversation, books, and dance. The episode suggests that recognizing the importance of these moments and embracing our true selves can lead us to a sense of peace, wholeness, and connection with others and the world.
A Conversation with Caitlyn Jenner
The podcast episode features an interview with Caitlyn Jenner, a former Olympic decathlon gold medalist. Jenner shares insights about her life journey, including the challenges she faced as a transgender person. She reflects on the importance of humor and not taking oneself too seriously in finding joy in life. Jenner also discusses the impact of her father's experiences as a war veteran and the lessons she learned from him. The episode delves into the significance of leading by example and the power of determination and self-confidence in achieving personal and athletic success.
Dealing with Dyslexia and Overcoming Obstacles
The podcast episode highlights Caitlyn Jenner's experience with dyslexia, a learning disorder that impacted her academic life and self-esteem. She acknowledges the challenges of struggling with reading and the fear of being judged by others. Jenner emphasizes the importance of parental guidance and leading by example in shaping the values and work ethic of children. She shares her father's humility, belief in actions rather than words, and his role in instilling strong moral values in her. The episode emphasizes how overcoming obstacles, such as dyslexia, can shape character and build resilience, ultimately contributing to personal growth and achievements.
Caitlyn Jenner's Olympic Journey and Mental Preparation
The podcast episode delves into Caitlyn Jenner's Olympic journey, specifically focusing on her preparation and mental approach to the decathlon. It highlights her determination and commitment, despite not being initially expected to make the U.S. team. Jenner shares how visualization and strategic planning played a crucial role in her success. The episode emphasizes the mental aspects of sports, with Jenner highlighting the importance of mindset, mental fortitude, and focusing on the present moment. It also explores the conflict between external pressure and internal motivation and highlights how mental preparedness can lead to peak performance and surpassing personal expectations.
Transitioning and Finding Peace
After going through a divorce and the subsequent tabloid rumors, Caitlyn Jenner found herself in Malibu, questioning her future. With the support of therapy and her children, Caitlyn started the process of transitioning one person at a time. Despite the challenges, Caitlyn emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself. Today, she feels a sense of peace and authenticity, no longer having to hide or sneak around. She believes that taking care of oneself first is crucial and encourages others to do the same.
Lessons from Privilege and Pain
As an Olympic champion and public figure, Caitlyn felt the weight of expectations and the pedestal on which she was placed. However, inside, she felt empty and in pain. Through her transition, Caitlyn learned not to judge a book by its cover and recognized the importance of honesty and self-care. She now sees women and womanhood in a different light, appreciating their strengths and resilience. Caitlyn acknowledges that privilege does not shield someone from internal struggles and that everyone deserves the opportunity to live authentically.
Sometimes a drive for achievement and 'success' can come from disquiet, as Caitlyn Jenner - the 1976 Olympic Decathlon Champion - explained when I visited her house in Malibu
My debut book - Champion Thinking: How to find success without losing yourself - is available for pre-order now. Drawing on some of my favourite interviews from this podcast over the last five years, I want to challenge our ideas about 'success', and where peace, joy and fulfilment are truly to be found.
