Creative cognition relies on memory, attention, and cognitive control to generate new ideas by recombining past experiences (Benedek & Fink, 2019). This suggests that your autobiographical memories, whether it's huge achievements or setbacks, could be used to help them build a new future. Looking at these old memories in new ways can help you discover new interests, reshape your identity, and find purpose in your athletic career. This workbook is to help athletes grow, reflect, and move forward creatively and healthily. 

This is a four-week program and serves as a supportive guide for retired athletes navigating the transition into life beyond sports. It focuses on helping you better understand your autobiographical memory, reframe your identity and mindset, and rediscover purpose and beauty in this new chapter. Throughout the workbook, you’ll find thoughtfully crafted reflection activities to deepen self-awareness, prompts to explore new hobbies and passions, and practical advice for easing into post-athletic life. You'll also engage in meaningful goal-setting exercises that foster direction and motivation, while opportunities for community connection and support ensure you never feel alone on this journey. Whether you're just beginning your transition or are further along, this workbook offers the tools, encouragement, and structure to help you thrive after sports! 

ACTIVITY BOOK

The self-memory system explains that autobiographical memory serves two key purposes: maintaining accuracy and creating a sense of identity (Conway et al., 2004). This is important for athletes needing to blend their former athletic identity with who they are now. Someone who may have once been identified as a champion may now see their past as an individual who showed resilience and leadership. Helping retired athletes, like yourself, reshape their story in this way can be healing, making it easier to cope with life after sports and finding meaning in life beyond sports. 

Prior to watching the videos below, you will begin by reflecting on your current thoughts and emotions, following each prompt. The first section of the worksheet is meant to help you honestly assess where you stand and where your mind is prior to viewing the videos. After you finish watching the video(s), you will return to the worksheet to complete the second part. In this section, you will reflect on how or if the content may have influenced your mindset. This worksheet is a great tool for self-reflection and can be used to monitor your progress throughout your personal journey. 

ACTIVITY SHEET

Memory is malleable and can be easily influenced or distorted, especially during social pressure or guided suggestion (Scorbia et al. 2017). Retired athletes often reflect on their careers in interviews, therapy sessions, or casual conversations. Over time, your memories may shift, strongly highlighting achievements while others may dwell consistently on failures. Outside influences like the media can also shape memory recall. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it is important to know while reflecting mindfully. Many athletes benefit from safe and supportive spaces. Having a space where you can explore your past without judgment can allow you to connect your memories to a more genuine sense of self. 

The Legacy Lounge is a virtual chat room for retired athletes to connect with others with shared experiences. It focuses on allowing a safe space to swap stories and share any thoughts and emotions this program may bring up! This is a resource that can be accessed at any time throughout the four weeks, and can be utilized as much or as little as you choose! (Click the photo to join).