From the Track to the Boardroom: Lessons from Athletics for Cybersecurity Success

As we celebrate International Women in Cyber Day today the 1st of September, let's reflect on the unique challenges and remarkable achievements of women in the cybersecurity field.

Drawing inspiration from my past (early school days as a competitive runner), I've discovered parallels between athletics and the cybersecurity world. Just as sprinting taught me valuable lessons, so too can the world of athletics illuminate our cybersecurity journeys.

I ran 100m, 200m, and 4x400m races, both individually and as part of teams. My daughter, following in my footsteps, continues to excel in these events. Watching the documentary series "Sprint" on Netflix reignited these memories and inspired me to draw parallels between athletics and cybersecurity.

As a cybersecurity leader who has experienced the highs and lows of the field, I've gleaned valuable insights. Let's explore some key lessons from the world of athletics that can help us succeed in cybersecurity on this momentous day.

Lesson 1: Prepare for the Good and Bad Days

In the world of sports, preparation is paramount. Athletes train relentlessly, both physically and mentally, to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities. In the Sprint docuseries, the champions were those who anticipated and adapted to both triumphs and setbacks.

Similarly, in cybersecurity, a proactive approach is essential. By building a strong support network, cultivating mental resilience, and continuously learning from our experiences and the unique journeys of others, we can better navigate the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Lesson 2: Build Mental Strength

Athletes often harness the power of positive thinking to achieve their goals. In the documentary, I saw this mindset at work in both seasoned champions and surprising underdogs. Whether through affirmations or unwavering belief, a strong mindset can be a catalyst for success, particularly in the pursuit of elite athletic performance.

The 100m male winner, renowned for his mental toughness, exemplified this principle. He literally spoke his victory into existence, demonstrating the transformative power of positive self-talk. In contrast, the previous champion, despite his humility, lacked the same level of self-belief and ultimately fell short.

Similarly, a female athlete who had not won a medal, but possessed unwavering confidence, secured gold against formidable competition (she was up against two-time and four-time winners). She boldly declared herself the fastest woman in the world, shaking hands with her coach before a life-defining race. Her unwavering belief, combined with her hard work and dedication, ultimately culminated in her victory and the prestigious title of world's fastest woman.

In the cybersecurity world, there will be days when you may feel discouraged or undervalued. However, it's important to remember that you are ultimately responsible for the outcomes of your life and career. Keep pushing forward, believe in yourself, and let your unwavering determination drive your success. Even the best of us have had to rely on our inner strength to pull through.

I heard a phenomenal female cybersecurity leader share her personal experience of facing challenges and overcoming adversity at an industry event. She described the day(s) when she would find herself overwhelmed, seeking solace in the ladies' room to gather her thoughts and say a prayer before facing a difficult client situation. Her story opened my eyes to the reality that I was not alone in experiencing such emotions. I've also faced similar challenges, but I've been able to deliver notable cybersecurity and privacy projects, and present effectively at board meetings and cybersecurity executive training sessions, even during periods of burnout or dwindling emotions.

Remember, even during the most challenging times, it's important to maintain your mental strength and persevere.

Lesson 3: Make Professional Sacrifices

Athletic success often demands sacrifices—be it dietary changes, intense training, or seeking guidance. In the documentary, I saw athletes make significant sacrifices, such as forgoing candy, enduring rigorous exercise routines for years leading up to their competitions, trying to lose weight, and seeking expert coaching.

Similarly, in cybersecurity, the path to advancement often requires dedication and sacrifice. Consider the late-night learning, relentless practice, and perseverance needed to overcome challenges and secure career growth.

Reflect on what you are willing to sacrifice for your professional development and take the necessary steps to achieve your cybersecurity career goals.

Lesson 4: Seek and Nurture Your Winning Tribe

In the world of athletics, a strong support network is often a key ingredient for success. I vividly recall a race where my relay team represented our school in a major track and field competition. Despite a significant setback during the baton exchange, our team's resilience and teamwork led us to clinch second place. It didn't matter who dropped the ball; our collective effort and support for one another ultimately determined our success.

Similarly, in cybersecurity, building and nurturing a supportive tribe can significantly enhance your career trajectory. Surround yourself with experienced mentors who can guide you, offer opportunities, listen to you, and share their expertise. A strong network can provide invaluable support, open doors, and accelerate your professional growth.

The docuseries featured an athletic coaching group renowned for producing exceptional female 100-meter race winners. The team's success underscored the importance of a supportive and knowledgeable environment. When two members left the team for greener pastures, their performance declined, demonstrating the significance of staying connected to a winning tribe. In contrast, the remaining member continued to excel, securing multiple medals.

In cybersecurity, choosing the right mentors and building strong relationships can make a significant difference. Seek out experienced professionals who can offer guidance, support, and opportunities for growth. Remember, while mentorship is valuable, it's essential to be open and receptive to learning from others.

Lesson 5: Maintain Your Stay Power

In the documentary series "Sprint," I witnessed a stark reminder: complacency can be a formidable opponent. Athletes who rested on their laurels, believing in past glory and putting in minimal effort, ultimately failed to reach the finish line. Even previous medalists were unable to secure a place in the final race.

Just as in athletics, complacency can be a dangerous foe in cybersecurity. To maintain a competitive edge, cybersecurity professionals must continually strive for excellence and stay ahead of emerging threats.

Remember, staying at the top requires constant dedication and a commitment to lifelong learning. Embrace challenges, including those painful rejections, as opportunities for growth and development.

As a dedicated athletics fan, I'm eagerly anticipating the second season of "Sprint" to delve deeper into the stories of the athletes and gain further insights. It promises to be a thrilling weekend treat.

Conclusion

As we navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and advocate for diversity and inclusion, let's remember that true champions never rest on their laurels. Keep pushing your limits, striving for excellence, and embracing the journey.

Happy Cyber Women's Day to all of us - the incredible women making strides in cybersecurity. I hope these lessons inspire and empower you as you continue to blaze new trails in our field.

Thank you for reading