It’s graduation season, which means celebs and star achievers from every field imaginable have fanned out to dispense their wisdom to this year’s graduating class. That includes gymnastics GOAT Simone Biles. As you can imagine, she wasn’t handing out advice on better backflips when she spoke at Washington University recently.
Instead, she offered advice on a topic that is of much more use to the vast majority of grads not destined for Olympic glory — chasing big goals of any sort. Biles shared simple but profound advice she learned from her mother that she believes can help anyone achieve greatness in whatever endeavors they pursue. It turns out that a chorus of diverse experts agrees with her advice. 12 great words of advice from Simone Biles’s mom Few would argue that Biles is the reigning “greatest of all time” in gymnastics, including apparently Biles herself.
What if greatness wasn’t just about hard work or raw talent?
What if it came down to just 12 simple words?
That’s exactly what Simone Biles—arguably the greatest gymnast in history—believes. And when someone who has flipped her way into Olympic history speaks, you listen. So, what are these magical words? Why do they matter? And more importantly—how can you use them to achieve your own version of greatness? Let’s dive deep.
Unveiling the 12 Words
“I’d rather regret the risks that didn’t work out than the chances I didn’t take.”
Yeah, let that sink in.
These 12 words carry the kind of raw truth that hits you right in the gut. They’re not just motivational—they’re transformational.
Why These Words Hit So Hard
Regret Is a Heavy Backpack
Regret for something you tried and failed? It fades.
Regret for something you never even attempted? That sticks.
Think of regret like a heavy backpack you carry through life. Simone’s words remind us to empty that load by doing, not doubting.
Risks Are the Fuel of Greatness
Every leap, every twist, every decision Simone Biles made came with risk.
But what if she never tried? What if she played it safe?
Spoiler: You wouldn’t even know her name.
How to Apply Simone’s Mantra in Real Life
Take the Leap—Even If It’s Scary
Whether it’s starting a business, writing your first book, or just speaking up in a meeting—take the leap.
Fear is normal. Regret is avoidable.
Reframe Failure as a Lesson
Simone doesn’t see failure as the end.
She sees it as feedback.
“Didn’t work out?” Cool. Now you know what doesn’t work.
Say Yes Before You Feel Ready
Newsflash: No one ever feels 100% ready. Not even Olympic champions.
If you wait until you’re ready, you’ll never start.
The Psychology Behind the 12 Words
Fear of Missing Out vs. Fear of Failing
We’re wired to fear both. But Biles’ mindset flips the narrative.
She’d rather risk the pain of failure than the ache of not knowing.
Growth Mindset in Action
Carol Dweck’s “growth mindset” theory lives inside these 12 words.
Simone isn’t attached to outcomes—she’s addicted to effort and progress.
Stories from Simone’s Life That Prove Her Words
Dropping Out of the Olympics to Prioritize Mental Health
That wasn’t playing it safe. That was a risk. A huge one.
And yet, it redefined her legacy more than any gold medal could.
Inventing Moves No One Else Would Try
Ever heard of the “Biles”? That’s because she invented it.
The judges even warned her not to try certain moves.
She did them anyway.
Saying No When the World Says Yes
Taking risks isn’t always about doing more—it’s about doing what’s right for you.
What These Words Mean for You
You Don’t Have to Be Simone Biles to Be Great
These words aren’t reserved for elite athletes.
They’re for the student debating a major.
The entrepreneur on the edge of quitting.
The parent scared to start again.
Define Your Own Version of Greatness
Greatness isn’t one-size-fits-all.
It could be writing a poem, running a marathon, or just showing up for yourself today.
Let These 12 Words Guide Your Choices
Before you say no to something that scares you, ask:
Will I regret not trying this later?
Tools to Help You Embrace Risk
Journaling for Clarity
Write down every time you took a risk—and what you learned.
You’ll start to see a pattern: risk breeds growth.
Visualization for Confidence
See the best-case scenario. Picture it clearly.
Sometimes imagining success makes it easier to chase it.
Affirmations Inspired by Simone
Repeat this to yourself:
“I’d rather regret a risk than a missed chance.”
Say it until you believe it.
The Ripple Effect of Taking Risks
You Inspire Others Without Even Realizing
When you leap, people notice.
You become the example someone else needed.
One Bold Move Can Change Everything
Sometimes, one “yes” can create a domino effect of opportunities.
It’s not magic—it’s momentum.
Let’s Recap the Magic
Simone’s 12 words aren’t just a quote.
They’re a way of life—a roadmap to becoming who you’re meant to be.
They remind us:
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Risk is essential.
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Regret is optional.
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Greatness is possible.
And it all starts with a single choice.
Conclusion: The Takeaway You Can’t Ignore
You don’t need a leotard or a gold medal to adopt Simone’s mindset.
You just need a little courage—and a lot of self-belief.
“I’d rather regret the risks that didn’t work out than the chances I didn’t take.”
Remember that. Live by it. And watch your life shift.
