BH: How does your work in surf lifesaving impact on your day job at Domain?
LS: I have always valued working towards a higher purpose, helping to support people. Being a lifesaver gives me confidence in who I am and my values and I would like to think that this translates at work. I enjoy helping others around the office, in the same way that I do on the beach.
I like to be able to use my skills as a lifesaver at work, as a fire warden and first aid officer, two responsibilities which may seem trivial for some but I take seriously.
I think being a lifesaver also helps you remain calm during stressful work situations and maintain perspective on the bigger picture of things.
BH: What does mental toughness mean to you?
LS: Mental toughness for me is all about resilience and self confidence. It is about knowing who you are in the face of adversity and being able to challenge yourself and others to step up and do what is necessary to complete the task and beat the odds. But it's also important to consider that mental toughness is not just about fighting and resisting, but remaining calm, balanced and being a positive example to others in the face of challenging situations.
BH: What advice do you have for individuals in challenging situations?
LS: Life is all about perspective. Challenging situations occur on a daily basis whether that be missing the bus, having a difficult conversation at work or a fight with your partner. But it is all about the way you view the situation. I believe everything happens for a reason and any challenging situation is here for us to learn something. This is something I always try to remember. It is also important to remember who you are and what you believe in.
4 ways to Build your Mental Toughness
1. Do something you are afraid of but you have always wanted to do
2. Set a goal and work towards it
3. Drop the words busy, overworked, and perfect from your vocabulary
4. Purchase something that represents being mentally tough and keep it close
Above: Lucy in action on the water Right: Lucy's patrol was awarded the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia Personal Sigil Medal in 2016.