What Figure Skating Can Teach Us About Leadership
As I watched the Olympic figure skating events, enthralled by the artistry and athleticism on display, I found myself reflecting on the deeper lessons these athletes offer—especially for women leading nonprofits. While the dazzling lifts and costumes of pairs skating are undeniably captivating, the solo performances of women’s figure skating revealed invaluable insights that transcend sports and apply directly to nonprofit leadership.
Lesson #1: We All Fall
No matter how skilled or accomplished we are, mistakes are inevitable. In figure skating, even the top athletes lose their balance, misjudge their timing, or fail to rotate fully. It’s a humbling reminder that setbacks are not a reflection of weakness, but a natural part of putting yourself out there. As nonprofit leaders, we must let go of the fantasy of failure-free leadership. Even the most cautious, risk-averse approaches can’t shield us from occasional missteps. Accepting that mistakes will happen frees us from unrealistic expectations and unnecessary disappointment.
Lesson #2: It’s About How We Handle the Fall
The real test is not whether we fall, but how we respond. Some skaters dwell on their mistakes, letting self-doubt take over; others quickly regain their composure and push forward, building confidence with every successful move afterward. Leadership is much the same. We will make mistakes—hire the wrong person, misread a situation, choose an ineffective strategy—but our response to that failure defines us. By labeling our errors honestly and learning from them, we transform setbacks into growth. Ignoring or obsessing over failures only holds us back. Like the skater finding balance and moving forward, leaders must focus on perseverance and momentum.
Lesson #3: Authenticity Matters
Phony performances are easy to spot. When a skater knows they’ve underperformed, the gap between their public smile and private disappointment is palpable. The same goes for leadership: authenticity matters. People can sense when you’re not genuine, when your words and actions don’t align, or when you act without integrity. Inauthenticity erodes trust and respect. To be credible, you must show up honestly and consistently, letting your true self shine through both successes and failures.
Lesson #4: Joy Is Powerful
The most spellbinding skaters reconnect with the pure joy that drew them to the sport, rising above pressures, expectations, and noise. That joy fuels excellence and resilience. If you’ve lost the joy in your nonprofit work, it’s time for honest self-reflection. Maybe it’s a matter of delegating more, setting boundaries, or recalibrating your focus. Sometimes, it could mean recognizing that your journey with an organization has come to an end—and leaving with your head held high is also a mark of true leadership.
Lessons in leadership are everywhere, if we choose to see them. Olympic figure skating reminds us to embrace our falls, persevere through challenges, act with authenticity, and reconnect with the joy that inspires us. Whether you’re on the ice or leading a mission-driven organization, these truths can transform the journey.