Overcoming Nerves & Gaining Confidence with Elite Gymnast Dulcy Caylor

Pursuit of Gold with Laura Wilkinson

Laura delves into the dynamic world of elite gymnastics with the prodigiously talented Dulcy Caylor on the podcast this week. Highlighting the essential blend of physical prowess and mental fortitude, Dulcy's journey from clinching gold medals at a tender young age to aiming for the 2024 Olympic trials encapsulates the essence of determination and resilience. As you will hear, today’s episode not only uncovers the universal battle with nerves that athletes face but also emphasizes the crucial role of mental training alongside physical preparation.

Dulcy's candid insights into overcoming competition anxiety, her strategic approach to training, and the invaluable support from figures like Simone Biles exemplify the intricate tapestry of challenges and triumphs defining an athlete's journey to excellence. Her narrative further reveals the profound bond of camaraderie among gymnasts, transcending age and experience, fostering a united front in the pursuit of their Olympic dreams. Through detailed discussions on the Olympic trials process, the significance of a supportive ecosystem, and Dulcy's personal strategies for combating nerves, listeners are offered a unique glimpse into the relentless pursuit of gold. Her insightful dialogue with Laura here today stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, mentorship, and the indomitable spirit of young athletes such as Dulcy, who navigate the complexities of elite sports with grace and steadfast ambition.

Episode Highlights:

• Ambitious beginnings to senior success
• Overcoming mental hurdles
• Customized coaching for peak performance
• Resilience through ups and downs
• Building a supportive environment
• Strategic mindset and preparation
• Aspirations beyond the mat
• Navigating the path to Olympic Trials

Quotes:

"Even the most elite athletes battle with fear, nerves, anxiety, impostor syndrome...they are overcomeable." "I am obsessed with gymnastics, but once I started getting into level nine, level eight...I really wanted to go as far as I can with this."

"Age doesn't matter in this now. It's 16 and up and you just have to compete with it."

"You can't let anything spiral...I care too much that I'm not going to care."

"It's those tiny little changes sometimes that are the hardest because you have to focus so differently."

"Keep your dream in mind every day. If you really want it, work for it every time, as much as you can."

"Work hard and work smart."

"Have fun with it every single day. It's still the sport that you loved as a kid."

"I would love to do something that helps people."

"I'm keeping my options open, but I also have my eyes on ‘28."

"If you set your mind to something, it's going to happen."

Links:

• The Pursuit of Gold Website
• Coaching with Laura

Laura’s Social Media:

• Laura’s Instagram
• Laura’s Facebook

Connect with Dulcy:

• Dulcy's Instagram