Measuring Success
Why Growth Matters More Than Medals
In a sport like figure skating—where results are subjective and outcomes are influenced by countless variables—defining success solely by podium placements can be misleading. Medals and rankings are visible, tangible, and exciting, but they tell only a small part of a skater’s story. True success is often better measured through personal growth, resilience, and progress both on and off the ice.
The Limits of Podiums and External Validation
External accolades matter. They can be validating, affirming that hard work is being recognized. A clean skate, a personal best score, or standing on the podium can feel incredibly rewarding—and rightly so. But when success is measured only by external outcomes, motivation becomes fragile. Judging panels change. Competition fields vary. Some days, even your best performance may not translate into the result you hoped for.
When skaters rely exclusively on external validation, they risk tying their confidence and self-worth to things they cannot fully control. In a subjective sport, that can be a recipe for burnout, frustration, or self-doubt.
Internal Metrics: Growth You Can Control
Internal measures of success are more stable and far more powerful. These include:
Improved consistency in training
Increased confidence under pressure
Better emotional regulation during competitions
Stronger work ethic, discipline, and self-awareness
Learning how to respond constructively to mistakes
Progress like this may not always show up immediately on a score sheet, but it compounds over time. A skater who is mentally stronger, more focused, and more adaptable is building a foundation for long-term success—both in skating and beyond.
The Comparison Trap
Comparison is almost unavoidable in an individual sport. Training sessions, competitions, and social media all make it easy to measure ourselves against others. But who we compare ourselves to—and how—matters greatly.
Comparing yourself to skaters far beyond your current level can seem motivating, but it can also become deflating if the gap feels unbridgeable. Instead of inspiration, it may create discouragement or unrealistic expectations.
Comparing yourself to skaters who are behind you might boost short-term confidence, but it rarely pushes you to grow. Comfort doesn’t lead to breakthroughs.
Comparing yourself to similar peers often creates constant competition. While this can drive effort, it can also shift focus away from what you need most—your own development, strengths, and pacing.
When comparison becomes the primary lens, skaters risk making decisions based on what others are doing rather than what is best for their own progress.
The Most Meaningful Comparison: You vs. You
The most effective and healthy comparison is to your past self. Ask:
Am I skating with more confidence than last season?
Have I improved my focus, consistency, or mental toughness?
Do I handle setbacks better than I used to?
Am I growing not just as a skater, but as a person?
This type of reflection keeps the focus where it belongs—on growth that is within your control. It also allows success to be defined in many forms, not just the ones that come with medals attached.
Redefining Success in a Subjective Sport
Measuring success through personal growth doesn’t diminish the value of winning—it simply places it in a healthier context. When skaters are internally motivated, grounded in their own progress, and focused on long-term development, external success often follows naturally.
In the end, the most successful skaters aren’t just those with the most medals. They’re the ones who learn how to grow, adapt, and stay motivated through every stage of their journey—on the ice and beyond.