Playing the Long Game: How Athletes Can Build Careers with Sustainability in Mind

As a student-athlete, you already know how to hustle. You’ve mastered early mornings, late nights, and squeezing in meals somewhere between practice and class. But here’s the kicker: just like the game clock eventually runs out, so does the adrenaline-fueled sprint of your college career. The good news? That same determination you’ve honed on the field, court, or pool can help you build a career that doesn’t just get you by—it sustains you for the long haul.

Sustainability in your career isn’t just about finding a job that pays the bills. It’s about creating a future that keeps you motivated, healthy, and fulfilled—without burning out faster than a candle in a windstorm. Whether it’s choosing a company whose values align with yours, setting boundaries, or knowing when to pivot, playing the long game is about making smart moves now that set you up for success later.

Building Your Career Foundation: The Warm-Up

Think of your first job like preseason training. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about getting the basics right. This is your chance to figure out what you like, what you don’t like, and what you absolutely never want to do again (looking at you, eight-hour spreadsheet marathons).

As an athlete, you’ve already learned how to analyze and adjust. Your coach didn’t hand you a playbook and say, “Good luck out there.” They trained you, gave you feedback, and helped you pivot when the game didn’t go as planned. Your career is no different. Embrace opportunities to learn and grow—even if it means a few fumbles along the way.

And just like in sports, don’t forget the importance of rest. Yes, hustle culture makes it seem like you should be grinding 24/7, but trust me, the bench is your friend. A well-timed breather can help you see the bigger picture and keep you from burning out before halftime.

Sustainability Starts with Your Choices

Remember when your coach said, “It’s not just about talent; it’s about the choices you make”? That’s the golden rule of building a sustainable career, too. The job you take, the company you work for, and even the people you surround yourself with will shape your path.

Think about it: you wouldn’t join a team that doesn’t share your values. So why settle for a company that doesn’t? Look for organizations that prioritize employee well-being, offer opportunities for growth, and—most importantly—align with what matters to you. Whether it’s environmental sustainability, diversity and inclusion, or giving back to the community, finding a workplace that “gets you” will make showing up every day a whole lot easier.

Playing Smart, Not Hard

Here’s the thing: working smarter beats working harder every time. This doesn’t mean slacking off—you’re an athlete, after all—but it does mean using your skills and resources to maximize your impact without exhausting yourself.

Start by leaning into the transferable skills you’ve developed as an athlete. Time management? You’ve been juggling practice, class, and games for years. Teamwork? You’ve survived the chaos of group projects and locker room politics. Leadership? Even if you weren’t the team captain, you know how to motivate and inspire those around you. These skills are your secret weapon, so don’t leave them on the bench.

Next, set boundaries. It’s tempting to say “yes” to everything when you’re starting out, but overcommitting is the fastest route to burnout. Be strategic about where you invest your energy. You wouldn’t run a marathon at a sprinter’s pace, so don’t treat your career like one endless high-stakes sprint.

The Power of the Pivot

Every athlete knows that a game plan doesn’t always survive first contact with the opponent. Sometimes, you have to adapt on the fly. The same goes for your career. If something isn’t working—or if your goals evolve—don’t be afraid to pivot.

Changing jobs, industries, or even entire career paths isn’t a sign of failure; it’s a sign that you’re listening to yourself and making adjustments to stay on track. Just like you wouldn’t keep running the same play if it’s not working, you shouldn’t stick with a job or industry that’s no longer serving you.

Your Endgame: Building a Legacy

Sustainability isn’t just about keeping the lights on. It’s about building a career—and a life—that you’re proud of. That means taking care of yourself, making choices that align with your values, and keeping your eye on the bigger picture.

The long game isn’t always glamorous, but it’s worth it. By focusing on sustainability, you’re not just setting yourself up for a great career—you’re setting yourself up for a fulfilling life. And really, what’s more important than that? So take a deep breath, lace up your metaphorical cleats, and get ready to play the long game. You’ve got this.