Katie Wood
Freediver, Writer, Explorer
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Katie Wood
Freediver, Writer, Explorer
For many, freediving is a way of life that demands unwavering dedication and focus. But what happens when you add parenthood into the mix? Can one pursue their dreams in the deep blue while being a devoted parent? The answer is yes, but it comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards.
Freediving is often described as an intensely emotional sport. The thrill of achieving a personal best is often preceded by moments of intense anxiety and self-doubt. And yet, this sport creates bonds like no other. When you dive, your life is quite literally in the hands of your dive partner. This dependency fosters a unique connection, one built on trust and mutual understanding.
Balancing these emotional highs and lows while being a parent adds another layer of complexity. The stakes are high, and the risks feel greater when you have children relying on you at home. The question then becomes: How do you stay focused on pushing your limits underwater while ensuring that your responsibilities on land are not compromised?
Success in freediving, like any high-performance endeavor, requires a certain level of selfishness. Training, competitions, and the mental preparation involved demand time, energy, and focus. Separating emotions and focusing on the dive is crucial for success.
But parenthood is an inherently selfless pursuit. It demands patience, sacrifice, and a constant presence. The balance between these two contrasting states—selfish pursuit and selfless giving—is one that many athlete-parents struggle to achieve.
Despite this, pursuing a passion can set an invaluable example for children. Having kids doesn’t mean one can’t still do what they love. This mindset challenges the societal norm that parents, especially mothers, must forgo their passions to fully dedicate themselves to their families.
Having a strong support system is crucial. Whether it's the help of family members or the encouragement of the freediving community, no one achieves success alone.
Freediving, at its core, is about connection—not just with the ocean but with people. The freediving community, much like a family, provides encouragement, advice, and sometimes even practical help, such as childcare during competitions. This sense of belonging and shared experience makes it possible for athlete-parents to continue their journeys without feeling like they are neglecting their responsibilities at home.
Despite the support, moments of doubt and insecurity often arise. Thoughts of being judged for leaving children to pursue dreams can weigh heavily. However, more often than not, people admire the resilience and dedication required to pursue both parenthood and personal goals.
Societal expectations often dictate that parents should put their dreams on hold for the sake of their children. However, it is possible to be both a dedicated parent and a successful athlete. By pursuing a passion, parents can set an example for their children to follow their own dreams fearlessly.
One of the most profound lessons freediving teaches is the ability to surrender—to let go of fear, control, and distractions, and simply be present in the moment. This philosophy applies to both diving and parenting. Surrendering to the experience and trusting in oneself is key.
Whether it's a deep dive or navigating the challenges of parenthood, the key is to embrace the moment fully and trust that things will fall into place. This approach helps manage the inevitable challenges that arise, whether it’s missing kids while away for a competition or facing a tough training day.
For those looking to pursue freediving while raising a family, the key is to find balance. Organization, planning, and prioritization play essential roles.
Building a strong support network: Whether it's family, friends, or fellow freedivers, having people to rely on is crucial.
Effective time management: Setting clear boundaries between training and family time helps ensure that both aspects of life receive the attention they deserve.
Self-care and reflection: Taking time to recharge mentally and emotionally allows one to be a better athlete and a better parent.
For those interested in hearing firsthand how others navigate the balance between freediving and parenthood, the Alchemy Podcast Episode 5 featuring Enchante Gallardo provides valuable insights. It explores the challenges and triumphs of managing a professional freediving career while raising a family, offering inspiration and practical advice for those on a similar journey.
Parenthood and freediving may seem like an unlikely pairing, but they can coexist beautifully. By trusting in a support system, maintaining a strong sense of purpose, and surrendering to the journey, it is possible to break barriers both in and out of the water. Pursuing one's passion does not have to come at the cost of being a great parent. In fact, by following their dreams, parents can show their children the true meaning of perseverance, resilience, and self-belief. For any parent contemplating taking the plunge into their dreams, whether in freediving or any other pursuit, the journey is proof that it’s not just possible—it’s worth it.