Why Power Skills – Formerly Known as ‘Soft Skills’ – Are Key to Success for Student-Athletes
What does it take to lead both on the field and off it, make tough decisions, and still put people first? The answer, for me, became clear during a turning point early in my career that changed my path forever.
Today, I am an educator in the business world, but I started in the corporate world. It was during a high-stakes moment at a multinational home goods company that I saw the importance of balancing hard business decisions with human-centered leadership. It was tough, emotionally draining, and something that changed my perspective forever. Witnessing how a business decision impacted employees, their families, and the community made me realize that leadership requires more than just technical skills. It demands empathy, ethical reasoning, and a people-first approach—skills that every student-athlete can benefit from.
This experience set me on a journey back to school to earn a Ph.D., where I could teach future leaders how to navigate complex decisions with purpose and humanity. What I learned and now teach my students is the importance of power skills—skills that help you navigate the highs and lows of both sports and life.
Power Skills: The Game-Changer for Student-Athletes
For many student-athletes, success isn’t just about physical strength; it’s about building the mental and emotional endurance needed to thrive in every area of life. Power skills, often called “soft skills,” are the core of this. Research confirms that these are just as essential for a successful career as athletic prowess.
As a student-athlete, you already know that balancing academics, athletics, and your social life can be overwhelming. What separates the successful from the rest is often their ability to adapt, empathize, and communicate effectively with teammates, coaches, and others in their lives.
Studies show that 65% of employers consider these power skills to be the biggest gap among new graduates. As a student-athlete, you can work on honing these skills, which will not only help you succeed in sports but also in future careers, especially if you plan to transition to the professional world after your athletic career.
Three Power Skills Every Student-Athlete Should Master
Here are three power skills that will set you apart, both on the field and in life after sports:
- Adaptability:
As a student-athlete, adaptability is crucial. Your training schedules, team dynamics, and even academic responsibilities are constantly changing. Being able to adjust to these shifts, manage setbacks, and stay focused on your goals is key to thriving in this demanding lifestyle. In the professional world, adaptability helps you adjust to new challenges, whether in sports management, marketing, or any career you pursue. - Empathy:
Empathy isn’t just about understanding others; it’s about building connections that help you lead and support your teammates. On and off the field, being able to listen, understand, and respond to the needs of others is an invaluable skill. Coaches, teammates, and even future employers will recognize you for your ability to create strong, supportive relationships. In fact, empathetic leaders make better decisions, balance goals with human needs, and create a culture of collaboration. - Inclusivity:
Whether you’re working with a diverse team or collaborating with people from different backgrounds, inclusivity is vital. Effective communication and collaboration ensure that everyone’s voice is heard. For student-athletes, this skill translates to better teamwork and stronger bonds both on and off the field. Inclusivity fosters an environment where all team members feel valued and motivated to contribute their best.
Why Power Skills Matter for Student-Athletes
Student-athletes are often at the intersection of sports, academics, and leadership. The ability to communicate well, empathize with others, and adapt to ever-changing environments not only helps you on the field but also prepares you for life after sports. These skills will help you succeed in everything from managing your time to dealing with stress, from overcoming failure to leading a team.
While athletic ability can open doors, power skills will help you keep those doors open long after your playing days are over. Whether you’re looking to enter sports media, management, or any other field, developing these skills will help you stand out.
As a student-athlete, you’re already learning the value of hard work, discipline, and teamwork. By also focusing on developing your power skills, you’ll be even better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead in both your athletic and professional careers. The key to long-term success isn’t just about athletic performance; it’s about mastering the human-centric skills that will help you navigate a rapidly changing world.
Just like on the field, your future success will depend on your ability to adapt, empathize, and lead with inclusivity. Focus on these power skills, and you’ll not only excel in sports but also in whatever career you choose after your playing days are over.