Stepping back to move forward

In the world of sports, athletes are often praised for pushing past exhaustion and ignoring pain in pursuit of victory. But for Alysa Liu, success is not only about endurance, it is also about knowing when to stop.

In a February 2026 interview with Olympic correspondent Raymond Braun, Liu reminded athletes and ordinary people alike to step back from the pressure they carry. According to her, taking breaks allows individuals to gain a new perspective and learn more about themselves beyond the demands of their routines.

“Take a break from that life you're so stuck in. Because stepping back will give you such a different perspective. And you learn so much. And that’s what life is about." she said.

In public and private schools and colleges across the Philippines, athletes often push through fatigue just to represent their schools in competitions. Her words echo strongly among Filipino student-athletes who juggle academic requirements, training sessions, and financial limitations at the same time. Alexa Eala herself recently acknowledged this weight, stating that the everyday person - not only Filipinos - has their own struggles, and that her own pressure is nothing compared to what regular Filipino athletes face everyday. While resilience is being celebrated, the silent struggles such as mental strain and lack of support are rarely highlighted.

Taking a step back, as Liu suggests, does not mean giving up on one’s goal. Instead, it allows athletes to recharge their passion, reflect on their commitment, and return with a clearer sense of direction.

In a culture that glorifies relentless perseverance, Liu’s message offers a refreshing reminder. Sometimes the strongest move an athlete or any person can make is simply to pause, breathe, and regain perspective before continuing the race.