Caution: Contains themes of an adult nature.
The term ‘inspirational’ can be overused when it comes to describing public figures. But in the case of today’s guest, it couldn’t be more fitting. Ramla Ali is a professional sportswoman who became the first-ever boxer to compete for Somalia in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Her incredible story is told in her new book Not Without A Fight: Ten Steps To Becoming Your Own Champion, and I’m honoured to hear it from her first hand.
Ramla is a former refugee whose family fled from Somalia to Kenya after the civil war. After settling in the UK, she describes a pivotal moment in her teenage years when she was attacked by a group of boys for wearing a hijab. This, together with advice from her GP that she was obese, proved an incentive for Ramla to begin boxing. But it was a secret she kept hidden from her traditional, religious family.
We talk about the range of feelings these events gave rise to, sharing our thoughts on the immigrant experience, and on being the subject of parental disapproval as well as pride. And we discuss Ramla’s journey to the Olympics and how much the African experience differs to that of Western athletes. Until she found sponsorship, modelling helped to pay Ramla’s way in sport. Yet she talks with touching honesty about struggles with confidence, self-esteem and finding her identity as a Somali woman in the public eye.
Today, Ramla’s confidence comes from the knowledge she has achieved all this against the odds – and that her fight helps women and girls of all backgrounds, races and religions to be seen. She’s giving back not just through this platform and as a Unicef Ambassador, but through her Sisters Club, a free boxing club that provides a safe space for women in London to access the sport. Ramla is a true role model and living proof that we can all be our own champions. I really think you are going to enjoy listening.
Show notes available at https://drchatterjee.com/202
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Actionable Insights
1. Cultivate Unwavering Determination
If you put your mind to something, cultivate a mindset where you will stop at nothing to achieve it, demonstrating unwavering commitment to your goals.
2. Embrace Discomfort, Take Risks
Be brave enough to put yourself in uncomfortable situations and take risks, as this is how you discover new passions, opportunities, and ultimately lead to a happier life.
3. Cultivate Self-Acceptance
Focus on your own unique journey and avoid comparing yourself to others, especially what you see on social media, as everyone is on a different path.
4. Define Personal Goals
Set clear, personal goals for your endeavors that focus on internal metrics and what truly matters to you, rather than getting caught up in external narratives or expectations.
5. Find a Stress Outlet
Engage in an activity that allows you to ’leave your worries at the door’ and provides a dedicated space to forget daily stresses and focus on something you love.
6. Prioritize Family Connections
Make a conscious effort to regularly visit family and gather together, as strong family bonds provide crucial support and happiness.
7. Build a Trusted Support System
Surround yourself with a positive and trusted team or support system who understands you, knows your needs, and can uplift your spirits when you are at your lowest.
8. Practice Empathy, Avoid Judgment
Before judging someone, try to understand their background, experiences, and perspective, as this can reveal why they act the way they do and foster compassion.
9. Follow Through on Commitments
Commit to your decisions and follow through, even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable, rather than bailing out on something just because it’s the easy option.
10. Pursue Confidence-Building Activities
Engage in activities, such as physical exercise or self-defense, that help you get fitter, increase your self-confidence, and empower you to stand up for yourself.
11. Volunteer & Empower Others
Volunteer your time and skills to create safe and empowering spaces for others, particularly those from marginalized communities, helping them build confidence and feel safer.
12. Live Without Regrets
Avoid living a life of regrets, believing that every experience, even challenges, happens for a reason and contributes to your current path.
13. Reflect on Your Journey
Take quiet moments for self-reflection to appreciate your personal journey and achievements, recognizing how far you’ve come.
14. Stand Up for Yourself
Develop the courage to stand up for yourself, even verbally, in challenging situations, rather than remaining silent.
15. Be Self-Reliant
Be self-reliant and resourceful to achieve your goals, understanding that you may need to fund your own endeavors even without external support.
16. Prioritize Comfort & Boundaries
In professional or public settings, prioritize your comfort and set clear boundaries, as feeling uncomfortable can negatively impact your performance and authenticity.