When Hilary Knight stepped onto the ice for a pivotal shootout on March 16, 2024, she faced a moment that would have intimidated even the most seasoned athletes. A record-breaking crowd filled the Detroit arena for the Professional Women's Hockey League's inaugural season, and all eyes were on her to deliver the game-winning shot.

Despite battling injuries throughout what she describes as a "wild, unpredictable year," Knight turned to the mental toolkit she's been building since she first laced up her skates at age five. Her secret weapon? A simple but powerful mantra: "Dare to be…" On that day, she completed it with "bold." The result? She found the back of the net and secured victory for PWHL Boston, demonstrating the incredible power of mental preparation.

Now 36 and captaining the Seattle Torrent, Knight is preparing to make history at her fifth Winter Olympics—a record for U.S. women's hockey. Her journey offers inspiring insights into how mental strength can unlock our greatest potential.

Knight's approach to mental training mirrors her physical practice regimen. She dedicates time to "mental reps," visualizing herself executing skills she's mastered perfectly. This positive reinforcement creates what she calls a "good flow," building confidence from a foundation of proven abilities. Rather than dwelling on weaknesses, she starts from a place of strength and capability.

But Knight doesn't shy away from growth areas either. During the offseason, she challenges herself mentally by visualizing difficult scenarios and skills that need refinement. This balanced approach—celebrating strengths while addressing opportunities for improvement—has helped her maintain excellence throughout her decorated career.

When games get tough, Knight has learned to celebrate the small victories. A successful pass, a well-executed play—these become building blocks that generate positive energy and momentum. "It's just a little reminder of where you're at within the game," she explains, offering wisdom that applies far beyond the rink.

As someone constantly traveling between arenas, Knight has mastered the art of finding comfort in the unfamiliar. She focuses on the consistent elements—hallways, benches, the structure of the rink itself—to create a sense of home wherever she competes. This adaptability has become one of her superpowers.

Perhaps most inspiring is Knight's unshakeable belief in belonging. Growing up, she often played with boys and faced roster rejections that could have crushed her spirit. Instead, these experiences fueled her determination and taught her a profound truth: proper preparation and refined skills earn you a place anywhere you want to be.

Knight's message resonates far beyond hockey. Her four Olympic medals stand as testament to what becomes possible when we train our minds with the same dedication we give our bodies. As she gears up for her historic fifth Olympic appearance, she continues to inspire us all to dare to be bold, to find strength in challenges, and to believe deeply in our own belonging.