retiring is like leaving behind your own identity 
, but we gotta think about what comes next 
, like finding new passions or hobbies 
, or even getting educated 
, and that's where the real growth happens 
, it's not just about football 
️ anymore. we need to talk more about mental health and how to keep those connections strong 
, 'cause when you lose your sport, you can lose yourself too 
the thing is footballs got this way of making u feel like ur whole identity revolves around the game & when its over, it's like ur lose ur self lol... gotta get outta that mindset n try somethin new 
. I mean, retirement is tough enough without dealing with emotional baggage... or should I say, emotional identity crisis? 
Forgetting that they're more than just athletes is key. It's interesting how David Wheeler highlights the importance of self-worth not being tied to performance. Can't agree more, but I'd love to see this reflected in more footballers' journeys and less just one person's story 
... I mean, who needs that much structure and purpose in their life? On the other hand, I could totally see how football can be a huge part of someone's identity - like, David Wheeler's story is really inspiring . But at the same time, I think it's also super important to not tie your self-worth to just one thing... or sport . Like, what if you're good at something else too? Maybe football can even be a great way to learn life skills like teamwork and discipline that'll benefit you in other areas of life 
.
retiring from football is like losing an identity lol, its hard to find new purpose when everything was tied to being a pro athlete . i feel for david wheeler and his experience 
, mental health issues after retirement are super common and not talked about enough 
. im all for players becoming sport psychologists or coaches so they can help others going through similar struggles . gotta give credit to those who take care of the emotional side of things 
.