Home/Olympics

In recent years there has been a significant shift in the way we view and prioritize mental health. Athletes like Simone Biles have played a pivotal role in this transformation by courageously stepping back from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. This act, in itself, has contributed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. Now new equestrian athlete, Jennifer Gates, is also following in the renowned gymnast’s footsteps and prioritizing mental health above everything.

Jennifer Gates, the daughter of Bill Gates and a great equestrian, recently shared an Instagram post, where she shared wisdom about how career choices resonate with the broader conversation about balancing personal well-being with professional aspirations.

Equestrian champion’s empowering message

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Gates recently shared a story on her Instagram in which she reposted a post of Dr. Laura Vater. She featured a picture with the following text: You can still have a successful career if you: “ 1. have a kid in school or training” “2. Prioritize your mental health and physical health” “3. Say no to good opportunities that are not a good fit for you.”

via Imago

Below the picture, the caption read: “I’ve made many choices in the last decade that didn’t make sense to others: Having a kid in med school. Writing a novel. Being on social media as a doctor. Stepping away from some research to more deeply engage in writing. And on and on. Remember that your personal and career choices may not make sense to others, and that’s okay. Keep striving to carve the path that’s right for you”.

This post serves as an encouraging and empowering message, emphasizing the importance of making choices that align with one’s personal values and well-being, even if they may not conform to societal expectations.

Championing mental health: Jennifer Gates and Simone Biles

In a world where achievements matter the most, Jennifer Gates and Simone Biles stand as champions of mental health. Jennifer was born into a rich family and she could have had anything she ever wanted. However, that didn’t shield Jennifer Gates from having insecurities, as she did with both her academics and her career Equestrian. She said in a chat with Sidelines, “Everyone struggles with self-doubt or feeling like they’re not good enough, among other things”.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Read More: Nothing Worse”: As Simone Biles Shares Upsetting Health Update, the Internet Chimes In for the Legend

However, Simone Biles, who opened up about her mental health struggles during the Tokyo Olympics, says she’s “still scared to do gymnastics.” In a heartbreaking interview with NBC’s “Today” show, Biles said she’s still struggling with the “twisties” as she performs on her Gold Over America Tour. And now after 2 years, she returned and claimed first place at the Core Hydration Classic on August 5 this year. This shows us that it’s not bad to prioritize your mental health; it’s healthy, and you can even still dominate after taking a little break.

via Getty

Jennifer’s advocacy for prioritizing mental and physical well-being, even if it means turning down opportunities, resonates with her unconventional life choices. Meanwhile, Simone Biles’ openness about her mental health struggles showcases resilience in the face of self-doubt and anxiety. These athletes remind us that achieving success should not come at the expense of our well-being.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Watch this story: Bill Gates equestrian daughter Jennifer gates teases vera wang connection in latest update