Siri Lindley - Lessons on Courage, Resilience, and Thriving Beyond Comfort Zones

Last weekend, I found myself once again in the electrifying energy of UPW (Unleash the Power Within), an event that has transformed my life more than once. This time, I was struck by a story I’d heard years ago at my very first UPW: the incredible journey of Siri Lindley.

The first time I heard Siri speak, I was moved by her resilience, courage, and ability to turn fear into fuel. But hearing her again, with her father—who once rejected her for being gay—and her wife in the audience, added a layer of humanity and healing that hit me right in the heart. Her story is so much more than triumphs in the triathlon world; it’s a masterclass in courage, vulnerability, and creating a life of impact.

You know what I’m talking about—those moments where life feels so overwhelming, you wonder if you’ll ever be enough for all the roles you juggle: the entrepreneur, the mom, the partner, the dreamer. Siri’s journey is proof that no matter how impossible the challenge seems, the biggest breakthroughs come when we lean into our fears and choose resilience.

?? Deciding to Be the Best—Before Knowing How to Swim

Let’s talk about audacity. Imagine deciding you’re going to be the best in the world at something you’re not just bad at, but downright terrible. That’s exactly what Siri Lindley did when she declared she was going to become the top female triathlete in the world—despite not knowing how to swim. Yes, swim. You know, that part of a triathlon where drowning isn’t an option.

Now, picture her first swim training sessions: arms flailing, sputtering breaths, barely making it across the pool without swallowing half of it. Her "best" at the time? It wasn’t Olympic-level by any stretch—it was simply barely good enough. But here’s the magic: Siri showed up every single day and gave the best she could muster. Some days, her best was just surviving a few more laps without sinking. But over time, her "barely good enough" best turned into better, and better eventually became the best in the world.

Think about that for a moment. How often do we hold ourselves back because we’re not great at something yet? Whether it’s launching a new business, diving into a skill we’ve never tried, or even balancing the chaos of mompreneur life, we hesitate. We wait for the perfect conditions, the perfect timing, or the perfect version of ourselves. You know what I’m talking about—those moments when you think, “I’ll start when I feel ready.”

But here’s the truth: readiness is a myth. Siri didn’t wait to master swimming before committing to being a world-class triathlete. She started messy, showed up anyway, and trusted that her best would get better with practice.

What We Can Learn from Siri’s “Barely Good Enough” Beginnings

1. Your “Best” Today is Enough: It doesn’t have to be perfect, and it probably won’t be. But what you can give today—no matter how small or imperfect it seems—is enough to move you forward.
2. Progress Happens When You Show Up: Siri didn’t go from barely swimming to winning triathlons overnight. She improved by showing up, flailing through awkward strokes, and doing her best day after day.
3. Stop Waiting for Perfect Conditions: Whether you’re launching a product, learning a new skill, or tackling a challenge, the stars aren’t going to align perfectly. Start where you are with what you have.
4. Celebrate the Small Wins: Every stroke that didn’t result in panic for Siri was a victory. Every baby step you take toward your goals matters. Progress compounds.

Siri’s journey to becoming the best wasn’t glamorous in the beginning. It was messy, exhausting, and filled with moments where quitting would have been easier. But she kept going, giving her best—however “barely good enough” that best felt at the time.

So, here’s the question: What’s your “barely good enough” today? What’s that one thing you can start, even if it’s messy and awkward, knowing that each attempt will make you better? Siri’s story reminds us that greatness isn’t born out of perfection; it’s built one imperfect step at a time.

Let’s ditch the myth of readiness and start doing. Your best today might just be the seed of something extraordinary tomorrow.

?? Facing Rejection: The Courage to Be Yourself

Let’s get real for a moment: rejection stings. Whether it’s a client turning down your proposal, a loved one dismissing your big dream, or even that nagging inner voice telling you you’re not good enough, rejection leaves a mark. You know what I’m talking about—it’s that sinking feeling in your chest, the doubt that creeps in, making you question if you’re really cut out for this.

Now imagine facing rejection not just from a stranger or colleague but from your own parent. That’s exactly what Siri Lindley endured when she came out as gay. Her father, unable to accept her truth, distanced himself from her life, creating a painful silence that stretched on for years. For Siri, it wasn’t just about losing a relationship; it was about grappling with the fear that being her authentic self might mean losing love altogether.

But here’s the thing about Siri: she didn’t let rejection define her. Instead, she found the courage to keep living authentically, even when it hurt. Fast forward to the present, and last weekend at UPW, I witnessed something extraordinary—her father sitting in the audience, watching his daughter speak. Their relationship had come full circle, not just because Siri was willing to forgive, but because she had the strength to stay true to herself, even when it cost her dearly.

What We Can Learn from Siri’s Courage to Be Herself

1. Rejection is Inevitable—But It’s Not the End As mompreneurs, rejection is part of the package. A potential client might say no, a friend might not understand your entrepreneurial journey, or your inner critic might throw a tantrum. But rejection doesn’t define you; your response to it does. Siri’s story reminds us that rejection is temporary, but the courage to keep going has lasting power.
2. Authenticity is a Superpower Living authentically might ruffle feathers, but it’s also what sets you free. Siri could have hidden parts of herself to maintain her father’s approval, but she didn’t. And in doing so, she paved the way for healing and reconciliation. In your journey, being true to yourself—even if it feels risky—can lead to opportunities and relationships that align with your values.
3. Healing Takes Time—and Effort Rebuilding relationships after rejection isn’t instant or easy. It took years for Siri and her father to find their way back to each other, but it happened because she stayed open to the possibility of forgiveness. Whether it’s a strained personal relationship or a professional setback, give yourself grace and time to heal while keeping the door open for growth.
4. Your Courage Inspires Others Siri’s decision to live authentically didn’t just transform her life; it impacted everyone who hears her story. Your courage to keep moving forward, even when it’s hard, creates a ripple effect that inspires those around you—your family, your clients, and even strangers watching your journey.

We’ve all faced moments where rejection feels like a wall we can’t climb. I remember pitching a big idea early in my entrepreneurial journey, only to have it dismissed with a polite but firm “no.” It stung. But like Siri, I realized that rejection wasn’t a reflection of my worth; it was an opportunity to double down on being true to myself and my goals.

Siri’s story reminds us that the courage to be ourselves—especially in the face of rejection—isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving. It’s about choosing to stand tall, even when others don’t see your vision, and trusting that being true to who you are will lead to the life and relationships you deserve.

So the next time rejection knocks at your door, remember this: It’s not the end of your story. It’s a chapter that builds the strength and resilience you’ll need to write the next one. Keep going, keep showing up, and most importantly, keep being you. Because the world needs the real, authentic version of you.

?? From Triathlons to Rescuing Horses: A Legacy of Impact

Let’s talk about success. For years, we’ve been sold the idea that it’s all about numbers—revenue, awards, followers. But deep down, you know that’s not the whole picture. Real success? It’s about the impact we make, the lives we touch, and the legacy we leave behind.

Siri Lindley’s story is the perfect example. After retiring from professional sports as a world champion triathlete, Siri could have rested on her laurels. She could have coasted on her accomplishments, collecting accolades and speaking engagements without pushing herself further. But that’s not who Siri is. Instead, she found a new purpose—one that had nothing to do with triathlons and everything to do with heart.

Alongside her wife, Siri founded an equine sanctuary dedicated to rescuing horses from slaughterhouses. Think about that for a moment. These were animals on the brink of unimaginable fates, and Siri saw them not as lost causes, but as lives worth saving. Through hard work, compassion, and determination, she and her wife have saved hundreds of horses, giving them a chance to live out their days in peace and safety.

What We Can Learn from Siri’s Legacy of Impact

1. Your Purpose Can Evolve Siri’s journey reminds us that purpose isn’t static—it grows and changes with us. For mompreneurs, this is especially important to remember. Maybe right now your purpose is scaling your business, but in a few years, it might be about mentoring others, giving back to your community, or even starting something completely new. Success isn’t a single destination; it’s a series of chapters, each with its own opportunities to make a difference.
2. Impact Extends Beyond Your Work It’s easy to get so caught up in the hustle that we define ourselves solely by our businesses. But Siri’s story shows us that our values and passions can—and should—reach beyond what we do for a living. For her, rescuing horses isn’t just a side project; it’s a deeply personal mission. It’s a reminder that we are so much more than our professional titles.
3. Every Life You Touch Matters Whether you’re saving horses, supporting a client, or being there for your kids, every act of care has a ripple effect. Siri’s sanctuary is proof that even small, compassionate actions can create big waves of impact. As mompreneurs, we’re already making a difference—in our families, businesses, and communities—every single day.
4. Legacy is Built One Step at a Time Siri didn’t wake up one day and save hundreds of horses. It happened one rescue, one decision, one act of kindness at a time. The same is true for the legacy we’re building. Whether it’s teaching your kids the value of perseverance or inspiring a client to chase their dreams, your impact is unfolding in ways you may not even realize yet.

It’s Not About Perfection, It’s About Purpose. You know what I’m talking about—that moment when you’re deep in the grind, wondering if all the effort is worth it. Maybe you’ve hit a roadblock in your business, or you’re struggling to find balance between work and family. It’s easy to feel like you’re falling short because the results aren’t visible yet.

But Siri’s journey teaches us that true success isn’t measured by trophies or bank balances; it’s measured by the lives we touch along the way. Her sanctuary isn’t just a place for horses—it’s a testament to what’s possible when we live in alignment with our values.

Siri Lindley’s transition from world-class athlete to horse rescuer is a powerful reminder that success isn’t a finish line. It’s about continuously evolving, finding new ways to create impact, and staying true to what matters most to you.

So, here’s the question: What kind of legacy are you building today? It doesn’t have to be grand or perfect—it just needs to start with one intentional step. Whether it’s nurturing your family, serving your clients, or giving back to a cause you care about, your actions are shaping a legacy of impact that will last far beyond the numbers.

And that’s what real success looks like.

?? Battling Leukemia: Resilience Redefined

Life has a way of testing us in ways we never expect. For Siri Lindley, that test came in 2019 with a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia—a life-threatening blood cancer that shook her to her core. Imagine going from being one of the fittest people on the planet, a world champion triathlete, to facing the unimaginable toll of cancer treatment. For someone whose identity had been so tied to physical strength and endurance, this challenge wasn’t just about survival—it was about redefining resilience.

But Siri, being Siri, approached this battle with the same grit and determination that had carried her through countless triathlons. Her mantra throughout the journey? “Focus on what you can control—your attitude, your effort, and your belief in yourself.”

You know what I’m talking about—those moments when everything feels like it’s spiraling out of control. Maybe it’s a sick child, a business crisis, or a string of unexpected challenges that leave you feeling completely powerless. In those moments, we can either collapse under the weight of what we can’t change or, like Siri, we can focus on the things we can.

What We Can Learn from Siri’s Battle with Leukemia

1. Resilience is a Choice Siri didn’t have a say in her diagnosis, but she did have a choice in how she responded to it. Resilience isn’t about never falling down—it’s about deciding to get back up, even when the odds are stacked against you. As mompreneurs, we’re often faced with our own battles, from business setbacks to family struggles. Siri’s story reminds us that resilience begins with a choice: to keep moving forward, no matter how small the steps.
2. Control the Controllable In the midst of her treatment, Siri couldn’t control the outcome, but she could control her attitude, her effort, and her belief in her ability to overcome. This mindset is a game-changer. When life feels overwhelming, shift your focus to the things you can influence. It might be as simple as prioritizing one task, taking a moment to breathe, or choosing a positive thought when negativity creeps in.
3. Strength Isn’t Just Physical For someone who had spent her life as an athlete, Siri’s fight against leukemia was a powerful reminder that true strength goes beyond the physical. It’s about mental fortitude, emotional resilience, and the unwavering belief that you are capable of overcoming whatever life throws your way.
4. Your Mindset Shapes Your Reality Throughout her battle, Siri’s unwavering belief in her ability to recover played a key role in her journey. Science backs this up: studies have shown that a positive mindset can significantly impact recovery and overall well-being. Whether you’re battling a health issue, a tough season in business, or a personal challenge, your mindset is one of your most powerful tools.

Resilience in Everyday Life. You don’t have to face a life-threatening diagnosis to experience moments that test your resilience. As mompreneurs, we face smaller (but no less significant) battles every day. Maybe it’s trying to juggle client calls while your toddler is having a meltdown, or dealing with the crushing disappointment of a failed business launch.

I’ve been there too—trying to balance school drop-offs, a looming work deadline, and a coaching call, all while my coffee went cold (again). In those moments, it’s easy to feel like everything is out of your hands. But when I pause and focus on what I can control, I find my footing again.

Siri’s story reminds us that resilience isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass—it’s about learning to dance in the rain. It’s about showing up every day, even when the odds feel impossible, and trusting that your strength will carry you through.

Siri Lindley’s battle with leukemia isn’t just a story of survival; it’s a masterclass in perseverance. It’s proof that even in our darkest moments, we have the power to find light, to focus on what we can control, and to choose hope over despair.

As mompreneurs, we may not be fighting leukemia, but we are fighting our own battles—big and small—every single day. Siri’s journey challenges us to ask: How will we show up when life gets hard? Will we collapse under the weight of what we can’t change, or will we lean into our inner strength and keep going?

The answer lies in focusing on what we can control: our attitude, our effort, and our belief in ourselves. And just like Siri, we’ll find that resilience isn’t something we’re born with—it’s something we build, one choice at a time.

So the next time life feels overwhelming, take a deep breath, and remember: you are stronger than you think, and you have the power to rise.

Why Siri’s Story Matters to Us

We’ve all had those days—the ones where everything feels like it’s spiraling out of control. Maybe it’s a last-minute work deadline, a child asking for help with a school project, and a sink full of dishes that seem to have multiplied overnight. You know what I’m talking about—that moment when you look at your to-do list and wonder if you’ll ever catch a break.

In those moments, it’s easy to feel like throwing in the towel. But what if, instead of trying to do it all perfectly, we focused on what truly matters? I remember a time when I was deep in that chaos—juggling my daughter’s school needs, client deadlines, and a house that felt like a disaster zone. Instead of giving in to overwhelm, I paused, took a deep breath, and decided to focus on what I could control.

Was it perfect? Not even close. But by prioritizing what mattered most, I was able to get through the day with a sense of accomplishment—not because I did everything, but because I showed up where it counted.

This is where Siri Lindley’s story resonates so deeply. She reminds us that none of us need to have it all figured out to make an impact. We just need to take the next step, no matter how messy or imperfect it feels. By focusing on what’s in our control, we can move forward—even through chaos—and create something meaningful.

Tying It All Together

Siri Lindley’s life isn’t just a story of overcoming challenges; it’s a blueprint for how to navigate the ups and downs of our own journeys. She teaches us that:

• Fear is not a barrier; it’s a signal that we’re stepping into growth. Whether it’s learning to swim, facing rejection, or battling illness, Siri didn’t let fear stop her—she used it as fuel.
• Authenticity and purpose go hand in hand. By staying true to herself, Siri created a life that reflected her values, from the triathlon podium to her equine sanctuary.
• Resilience is built one step at a time. From her first shaky swim strokes to her fight against leukemia, Siri’s strength came from showing up every day, no matter how hard it was.

As mompreneurs, we’re already carrying a heavy load. We’re building businesses, raising families, and striving to make an impact. Siri’s story shows us that even in the midst of all this, we have the power to create something extraordinary—not by being perfect, but by being present and persistent.

So, what’s the next step you’re afraid to take? Maybe it’s launching that business idea you’ve been sitting on, saying yes to an opportunity that scares you, or finally letting go of the idea that you have to do it all perfectly.

Whatever it is, lean into it. Take the step. Show up for yourself and for what matters most.

Because just like Siri, you have the power to turn fear into fuel, challenges into opportunities, and dreams into reality.

What bold step will you take today? Drop it in the comments below; I’d love to hear your story.

????????????????????

?? Did this resonate with you? Make sure you don't miss out on future insights and inspiration—subscribe to The Mompreneur Magic newsletter and be the first to know when new content is published!?

And if you found this valuable, I'd be grateful if you shared it with your network. Let’s spread the magic together!

????????????????????