2021—the moment we’ve all been waiting for. As we move forward and get ready to jump into the next adventure, we have no doubt it’s going to be a big year for our Goldfish Family—a year filled with smiles, progress, friendship and plenty of fun!

It’s gearing up to be a big year for our brand ambassador and World Champion Swimmer, Ryan Murphy, too!

With the 2021 Olympic Trials just around the bend, we reached out to Ryan to discuss his biggest takeaways from 2020 and the goals he’s focused on accomplishing this year, as well as his best advice for aspiring young swimmers who dream of following in his footsteps.

Q: Before we look ahead, let’s take a brief moment to reflect on last year. While 2020 might not have seemed like a time for celebration, it was during that time we all needed a reason to celebrate most. Looking back, what were some of your top highlights from last year?

Throughout the entire year, my parents and family encouraged me to take time to live in the moment and find joy in the people I was able to see. As a result, my top highlights from 2020 came as a result of being able to slow down. My lifestyle typically involves a bunch of travel and a rigorous training schedule. When my travel was restricted and I didn’t have access to pools, I felt like I was able to make up for lost time with my roommates, best friends, girlfriend and family by finding creative ways to safely spend time together and connect virtually. My girlfriend’s family has a cabin near Lake Tahoe and I loved my quick summer trips up there.

Q: What were some of the biggest lessons you learned in 2020 that you’ll carry with you into 2021?

I learned how to be flexible. I love to plan, but had to get comfortable taking things day-by-day because of all the uncertainty.

Q: If you had to pick one word to focus on for 2021, what would it be and why?

Calculated. This is a big year for me. I have to make sure I’m taking care of myself, both as an athlete and as a person. Every day is made up of an infinite number of decisions. By making good decisions, I’ll set myself up for a fulfilling year.

Q: We know it’s a big year for you, with the Olympic Trials coming up! Do you have any resolutions or goals you’re focusing on this year – both personally and professionally?

My goal is to keep things simple. The Olympic Trials will bring a lot of pressure and the easiest thing to do is overthink. I lean a lot on my family to help me with my goals.

Q: As a kid, it was your goal to go to the Olympics – and you achieved that goal! What advice, or words of encouragement, would you offer to kids when it comes to following your dreams?

It’s great to have dreams. I encourage it. I was always encouraged to dream by my family. I was also taught that each day you can take a step to improve. Focus on the steps. One day, you’ll look back and realize that you’ve taken a lot of steps to improve and can take pride in that—and hopefully, you’ll get to the point where you have reached your dream. Celebrate it with the people that have helped you get there, and then set a new goal.

Q: Regardless of level or skill, what’s one thing you’d challenge our young swimmers to work on in the pool this year?

Coordination. Becoming a well-rounded athlete will help you in any sport!

Thanks for sharing your goals with us, Ryan. We’ll be rooting for you at this year’s Olympic Trials!

You can learn more about Ryan’s journey to the Olympics, and how his love of the water started, in this interview with his mom.

Thinking about introducing your kids to the sport of swimming? At Goldfish, we’re committed to helping children make waves in life through award-winning swim lessons that offer experienced guidance in swim techniques, as well as important information about water safety. Contact your local Goldfish Swim School to learn more!