My mental strength, along with boxing gears, is my real armor

Authored by Mary Kom, Indian Olympic Boxer  

“A dream doesn’t become a reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work.” Colin Powell 

And the dream-come-true moment of my life came at the podium of the London 2012 Summer Olympics, with my eyes moist in pride and the medal shining bright on me. This was probably the moment that I would cherish forever in my life, as like every athlete, I also dreamed of winning a medal for my country at the Olympics. However, my journey was never smooth sailing. Several unprecedented twists and turns emerged as serious threats on my way. 

There were times and situations when I wanted to give up everything, including my career as a boxer. I had no support, no opportunity, and even no sponsors backing me. I had to deal with the people who used to taunt me, saying boxing was only for men, not for women. However, every time, I ended up challenging myself to show the world that I was stronger than all circumstances and criticisms. My determination to defend my love for boxing against all odds paid off, time and again. It boosted my confidence and safeguarded my long-cherished dream of winning an Olympics medal for the country. Like my boxing gloves, my perseverance and determination acted as a protective shield around my boxing dream. 

I got involved in sports and athletics very early, just like my father, who was a keen boxer in his youth. As the eldest child of my family, I always had the freedom to follow my own path, instead of treading in others’ footsteps. During my school days, I participated in all types of sports, including volleyball, soccer, and athletics. Nevertheless, at the bottom of my heart, I safely nurtured my desire for boxing, which was fueled by the triumph of Dingko Singh at the 1998 Bangkok Asian games. 

Today, I am 35 but my passion and love for boxing continue unabated. I want to motivate more girls to take up boxing—be it for winning medals for the country or for their self-defense.Undoubtedly, security is always crucial, be it inside the ring or outside it. And a good defense tactic can take us to a long way in any walk of life. Our all-girls fight club is devoted to this purpose, ensuring personal safety and security of girls and women. 

I believe that boxing is a field that not only empowers a person physically but mentally as well. As a boxer, therefore, I not only rely on my technique or strength but also on my mind. For me, along with my hand gloves, headgear, and mouth guard, my strong willpower, never-give-up attitude, and the thirst to win act as the real armor, enabling me to protect myself physically and mentally, every time! Build your armor and work hard with firm determination. Don't be just you but use your armor to be someone who lives a life setting an example for others.

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