Self-belief can be a powerful force, often transforming what seems impossible into a reality. The word the Brisbane Lions have adopted for their finals campaign is BELIEVE, this was never clearer than during the Lions' stunning comeback in the elimination final. Down by 44 points to Greater Western Sydney in the third quarter, many thought the game was over. The odds were stacked against them. People all over the country were going to bed and changing the channel, I was nearly joining them but the Lions believed, and with sheer determination, they clawed back to win by 5 points—a victory that seemed improbable, if not impossible. It brings to mind the words, “It always seems impossible until it’s done,” a sentiment often attributed to Nelson Mandela.
The Lions’ belief in themselves mirrored the message from the movie "Ride Like a Girl", The Michelle Payne story. Her father reminds her “The only odds that matter are the ones you give yourself.” For the five newer players who have stepped up in the finals, this message rings particularly true. They have had to set aside self-doubt, dig deep, and trust that they could contribute to the team’s success. In a team sport like AFL, belief in oneself and in each other becomes the cornerstone of victory. Each player needs to know they have what it takes, and together they can complete what could be the fairytale ending of an AFL Grand Final.
This kind of belief—whether on the field or in life—often distinguishes those who achieve their goals from those who fall short. It’s about refusing to let external circumstances dictate your potential. Just as the Lions had to overcome a staggering deficit to emerge victorious, we all face challenges that seem insurmountable at times. But in those moments, the most crucial battle is within. Will you believe you can push through, or will you surrender to doubt?
Believing in yourself is not just about confidence in your abilities; it’s about trusting the process and giving yourself permission to succeed. Many of life’s greatest achievements come not because the odds were in favor, but because someone dared to believe they could overcome the odds. Whether it’s a professional goal, a personal dream, or overcoming adversity, self-belief is the starting point of achievement.
This is especially true when others may doubt your capabilities. What makes the Lions’ victory even more remarkable is that most had written them off. But in the locker room, the belief persisted. And this is what belief does—it fosters resilience, creating a mindset where obstacles are viewed as temporary, not insurmountable.
For Lions supporters like myself, this season feels special. The team’s journey has been one of grit and growth, with both seasoned players and fresh faces contributing to the story. These five new players in particular exemplify what it means to step up when it counts. To reach the pinnacle of an AFL Premiership, they must continue to believe in themselves and each other.
I’m blessed to have tickets to the Grand Final on Saturday to see if they claim the ultimate prize and reward supporters who have stuck by them throughout the year. In life, as in sport, belief is the bedrock of success. When you trust in your abilities, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. The impossible only stays impossible if you fail to believe you can make it happen.
If you are struggling to back yourself and are looking to transform limiting beliefs into self belief, I can help with that.
Comments