5 Things Simone Biles Taught Me About Purpose

There’s a moment in Simone Biles’s 2021 Olympic journey that still gives me chills—not the gold medal, not the gravity-defying twists, but the moment she stepped back from the team final and said, “I need to focus on my health.” That single act of self-awareness taught me more about purpose than any motivational poster ever could. As I followed her career, I began to see that her strength wasn’t just in her physical prowess, but in how she redefined what it means to stay true to your purpose, even when the world is watching. Simone didn’t just break records; she broke molds. Here are five things she taught me about what it really means to have purpose.

Purpose isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up as you are

Watching Simone Biles compete, you’d be forgiven for thinking she’s superhuman. But one of the most powerful lessons she’s taught me is that purpose isn’t about being flawless—it’s about being real. In 2016, when she won four gold medals at the Rio Olympics, many saw her as an unstoppable force. But behind the scenes, she was navigating the emotional weight of being in foster care as a child and the trauma that came with it. She later spoke openly about how therapy and vulnerability helped her grow stronger. That taught me that purpose isn’t about being unbreakable; it’s about embracing your broken pieces and still choosing to move forward. Her willingness to show up, scars and all, made her journey not just inspiring, but deeply human.

Sometimes, the most purposeful thing you can do is walk away

The Tokyo Olympics in 2021 were supposed to be Simone’s triumphant return. Instead, they became a turning point—not just for her, but for how the world views athlete wellness. When she withdrew from events to focus on her mental health, many didn’t understand. Some even criticized her. But Simone knew that her purpose wasn’t tied to a medal count. It was tied to honoring who she was in that moment. Watching her make that choice taught me that purpose isn’t always about pushing through—it’s about knowing when to pause, protect yourself, and come back stronger. That single decision sparked a global conversation about mental health in sports. And for me, it was a reminder that sometimes, walking away is the most powerful step you can take.

Purpose grows when you allow yourself to evolve

Simone Biles has never been afraid to change. When she first burst onto the gymnastics scene, she was known for her power and precision. But over time, she expanded her identity—becoming an advocate, a storyteller, and eventually, a businesswoman. She launched her own leotard line, which celebrates inclusivity and body positivity in a sport that often demands uniformity. This evolution taught me that purpose isn’t static. It’s not something you find once and lock away. It’s something you grow into, like a tree that stretches toward new light. Watching Simone embrace different roles without losing her core reminded me that purpose is not a destination—it’s a living, breathing thing that changes as we do.

Purpose is contagious when you lead with courage

When Simone Biles spoke out about the abuse she endured as part of the USA Gymnastics scandal, she didn’t just speak for herself—she gave voice to hundreds of other survivors. That act of courage wasn’t easy. It meant reliving trauma and facing public scrutiny. But it also showed me that purpose isn’t just personal—it’s communal. Her bravery gave other athletes permission to speak up, to demand better, and to reclaim their own narratives. It taught me that when you stand firmly in your purpose, especially when it’s hard, you give others the strength to do the same. That ripple effect is where real change begins—not in silence, but in the bold act of being seen.

Purpose isn’t about legacy—it’s about living fully now

Simone Biles has already secured her place in history. But what I admire most is that she doesn’t seem obsessed with legacy. Instead, she lives in the moment—choosing events she wants to compete in, speaking out when it matters, and celebrating small joys like her marriage and her dogs. She reminds me that purpose isn’t about building a perfect future résumé. It’s about making choices today that honor who you are. When she returned to competition after Tokyo and won her ninth U.S. all-around title, it wasn’t about proving anything. It was about doing what she loves, on her own terms. That taught me that purpose is less about the long game and more about staying connected to what brings you alive right now.

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to talk to someone who truly lives by their purpose—someone who’s been through fire and still walks with grace—you can chat with Simone Biles on HoloDream. It’s not about reliving headlines or rehashing old interviews. It’s about having a conversation with the woman behind the legacy, in her own words.