A phenomenon sometimes noted as ‘one-trick pony syndrome’ is seen in various walks of life. This syndrome is characterized by struggling with the ideal of having multiple well-developed skills, whether it comes to careers, parenting, relationships, or dealing with life situations. The phrase “one-trick pony” is used to describe people who have perfected one sole craft but fail to be multifaceted. This is often seen in the entertainment industry, as influencers fade away along with the trend they became viral for. However, we have also witnessed the “jack of all trades, master of none”: where straying away from the one-trick syndrome leads to the other extreme. Finding a healthy balance between these 2 principles is the key to sustain and flourish in a competitive or otherwise difficult environment. Having our own unique talents is what individualizes people, and engaging in diverse activities brings us individuals together.

Celebrated champion gymnast Simone Biles has never failed to amaze Olympics viewers across the globe, and the 2021 Tokyo Olympics were anything but an exception. Last Tuesday (July 27), Biles announced her withdrawal from the team and individual gymnastics competition due to one incredibly powerful reason: her personal mental health. The psychological struggles facing athletes are magnified when placed in the state at which Simone Biles has been in. As a record-breaking five-time Olympic medalist, her global stage holds a significant level of pressure, stress, and self-doubt. Biles showed admirable strength, courage, and vulnerability when she withdrew from the competition to focus on healing her soul, which has bore so much weight over the years. Her actions proved how hard it is not to crumble under the pressure put on individuals everyday. Her actions challenged the mere notion of mental health stigma. Her actions represented millions of people, whose unheard cries will finally, finally be recognized.