What do Helen Keller, Shawn Johnson, and Kyle Maynard have in common? They turned vision, grit, and resilience into extraordinary achievements. Whether it’s conquering personal limitations, climbing Kilimanjaro, or winning Olympic gold, their stories remind us that greatness isn’t handed to you—it’s built through relentless pursuit, collaboration, and service.

The School of Greatness: A Real-World Guide to Living Bigger, Loving Deeper, and Leaving a Legacy

Helen Keller once said, “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” Vision, indeed, is a powerful force. 

Consider this story about Steve, a budding physical therapist who had dreams but lacked clarity. Over dinner, Lewis Howes, the author, asked about his aspirations post-graduation, and after some prodding, he admitted his dream was to have a practice by the beach, working minimal hours to support his family. His vision was simple yet profound, but he doubted its feasibility. 

Vision is not just ambition—it’s a fusion of dreams with actionable goals. Angel Martinez, CEO of Deckers Brands, is a testament to this. From humble beginnings in the Bronx, Angel's vision propelled him to co-found Reebok and lead Deckers to global success. His defining moment came as a child when he saved up for Converse sneakers, illustrating the power of a specific vision. It wasn't just about shoes; it was about identity and belonging.

Creating a vision involves aligning what you want with who you want to be. My childhood dream of being an All-American athlete shaped years of dedication to sports. Similarly, Angel's longing for those Converse sneakers set him on a path to greatness in the footwear industry. 

The process of crafting a vision includes exercises like writing a Certificate of Achievement, mapping a Perfect Day Itinerary, declaring Personal Principles, and drafting a Personal Statement Plan. These tools help transform dreams into reality by providing clarity and direction.

Your vision should be your identity. It’s not merely a dream; it’s a living plan with clear goals that guide you through life's challenges. Greatness lies beyond limitations, where dreams are pursued with fervor and clarity. Embrace the journey, turn the telescope around, and envision yourself already living your dream. Let your vision be the force that propels you out of bed each morning, ready to conquer the day.

Remember, your life and dreams matter. Visualize them daily, share your aspirations with others, and inspire those around you. It's time to make magic happen by getting clear on what you truly want and why.

Can Vision Be the Secret Ingredient to Success, as Proven by Helen Keller and Angel Martinez?

Kyle Maynard defies adversity like no other. Born with amniotic band syndrome, Kyle stands just 3 feet 8 inches tall, yet he has become a champion wrestler, football player, MMA fighter, and even conquered Mount Kilimanjaro. 

Kyle's incredible journey teaches us that greatness is born from talent, vision, and action, especially when met with adversity. He emphasizes that true success lies not in wishing away challenges but in facing them head-on, as he did when he made his first football tackle at age 11. From crying himself to sleep as a child, Kyle transformed into an inspirational speaker, sharing stages with luminaries like Obama and Dr. Covey.

Adversity isn't always external; it can be internal too. Nicole Lapin's journey from financial cluelessness to becoming a bestselling author reminds us that overcoming internal adversity, like learning a new language, can empower us to join any conversation. Similarly, when faced with adversity, we must adapt our vision and channel energy into actionable plans. Kyle's perspective echoes the Stoic philosophy—what stands in the way becomes the way. His story is a testament to the power of persistence and gratitude, even in the face of immense challenges.

Angel Martinez's story parallels Kyle's, showing how running taught him life's lessons. His son's refusal to drop out of a race, despite injury, embodies the spirit of perseverance. Like Angel and Kyle, we must confront adversity without retreating, learning from each setback, and using it to fuel our journey. Kyle's climb up Kilimanjaro was not just a personal triumph but a message of hope to veterans who have lost limbs in war. His perspective of gratitude, despite his disability, inspires us to embrace adversity as a catalyst for growth.

Adversity is inevitable, but despair is optional. By acknowledging and embracing it, we can turn adversity into an advantage. Through awareness, expression, gratitude, and action, we can dissolve obstacles and pursue greatness. Kyle, Angel, and Nicole teach us that true greatness lies in the resilience to persevere, the wisdom to learn from failure, and the strength to keep moving forward. In the face of adversity, we must believe in ourselves, embrace challenges, and relentlessly pursue our vision.

Kyle Maynard: Climbing Kilimanjaro and Conquering Adversity

Imagine being inside the mind of a champion—Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, or Shawn Johnson. They seem superhuman, living in a world where everything goes right. But their secret lies in a mindset defined by focus, flow, belief, and emotional intelligence. It's this champion's mindset that propels them forward.

Take Lewis Howes' story, for instance. During his senior year in college, he faced the decathlon at the NCAA Division III track-and-field national championships. He had trained tirelessly, overcoming a rib injury, to chase his All-American dream. But it all came down to the pole vault—a make-or-break event. On his final attempt, with pressure mounting, he found clarity. He visualized a childhood memory of watching All-Americans with his dad, and it lifted his confusion. Sprinting down the track, he cleared the bar, achieving a personal best and becoming an All-American.

This laser focus isn't exclusive to sports. It's a state of flow that can apply to any area of life. Talking with Steven Kotler, author of "The Rise of Superman," Lewis learned that flow is an optimal state where performance peaks. It's addictive and accessible to anyone. The key is creating a high-flow environment in your life, surrounded by triggers that motivate you.

Shawn Johnson, Olympic gold medalist and Dancing with the Stars champion, embodies this mindset. Her triumphs stem from her belief in herself and her relentless pursuit of excellence, not just winning. She taught Lewis that achieving greatness requires humility and dedication, focusing on self-improvement rather than external validation.

To cultivate this mindset, visualization, meditation, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence are crucial. Visualization helps you see your goals as already accomplished. Meditation clears your mind of distractions, centering your thoughts. Mindfulness involves gratitude and self-reflection, while emotional intelligence requires understanding and regulating emotions.

Ultimately, greatness isn't handed to you; it's a journey of constant growth. By adopting a champion's mindset, focusing on your vision, and believing in yourself, you can achieve remarkable success in any field. Remember, you have the power to shape your destiny. Embrace your uniqueness, believe in your abilities, and hustle relentlessly toward your dreams.

How Do Michael Jordan and Serena Williams Harness Their Champion Mindset for Extraordinary Success?

In 1991, Christian Howes, a college sophomore with a promising future in music, made a grave mistake—selling LSD to an undercover cop. Sentenced to 6 to 25 years, his story could have followed the familiar path of lost potential. 

Instead, Christian emerged from prison a changed man, determined to pursue greatness with relentless hustle. Released in less than five years, he didn't return to a life of crime; he transformed his musical talent into a successful career, becoming one of the world's best jazz violinists.

Christian's journey is a testament to the power of hustle—doing whatever it takes to seize opportunity and overcome adversity. His story inspired his younger brother, who struggled with self-doubt and loneliness during Christian's incarceration. Witnessing Christian's dedication to his craft and his shameless promotion of his music taught him the value of relentless effort.

This mindset is shared by greats across disciplines, such as Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps and NFL legend Tom Brady, who both pushed through adversity with unwavering commitment. The hustle isn't just about working hard; it's about doing what others won't and embracing the grind, regardless of setbacks or fear.

Christian's hustle, alongside stories of other relentless individuals like Marie Forleo and Kyle Maynard, demonstrates the transformative effect of perseverance and passion. Whether it's promoting oneself shamelessly or mastering new skills, the essence of hustle lies in taking action, overcoming fear, and continuously striving for greatness.

Ultimately, hustle is more than just a path to success—it's a way of life. It requires a vision and the willingness to act, even when the odds seem insurmountable. As these stories show, true greatness is achieved not by waiting for opportunity but by relentlessly chasing it down, wherever it may lead.

From LSD to Jazz Greatness: The Relentless Hustle of Christian Howes

Rich Roll's journey from burnout to greatness is a testament to the power of mastering one's body. A former NCAA swimmer turned successful entertainment lawyer, Rich had it all—except happiness. He was overworked, bingeing on junk food, and gained 50 pounds, feeling trapped by a midlife crisis. But a moment of clarity struck when he struggled to climb a flight of stairs. 

Determined to change, Rich embraced a plant-based diet and rigorous exercise, reclaiming his health and life. His transformation led him to compete in an ultramarathon, where he finished 11th despite being a novice. Inspired by his own journey, Rich built a lifestyle business, becoming a best-selling author and podcast host, inspiring millions.

Rich's story underscores the vital connection between physical health and life's purpose. Studies show that taking care of your body and mind is essential for achieving greatness, as highlighted by experts like Daniel Amen, MD, and sleep specialist Ameer Rosic. Ameer realized his struggles were tied to poor sleep, and once he optimized his sleep, his life transformed. He championed sleep as the foundation of health, ahead of diet and exercise, and built a successful health business.

Chalene Johnson, a renowned fitness coach, reinforces that anything is possible with a plan. She encourages making sacrifices to improve health, pointing out that physical well-being can enhance personal and professional life. Rich's story of prioritizing health led to improved family relationships and happiness.

In the pursuit of greatness, mastering your body involves exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep. It’s about making conscious choices for a healthier lifestyle and recognizing the role of habits. The past doesn't define you, but your choices today can lead to a brighter future. Whether it's running ultramarathons or simply playing with your kids, mastering your body is foundational to achieving your dreams. Embrace the journey, and make your body a powerful engine for your vision.

Can Rich Roll's Transformation Teach Us the Secret to Unlocking Our Full Potential?

Successful habits are the cornerstone of achieving greatness, as illustrated by stories from the realm of sports and beyond. While armchair critics often point fingers at athletes like NBA star Allen Iverson or NFL cornerback Charles Woodson for lax practice habits, the reality is their raw talent allowed them to shine even without rigorous preparation. But relying solely on talent isn't sustainable; eventually, poor habits catch up with you, whether on the field or in other aspects of life.

Graham Holmberg, once a college football player who coasted on natural ability, exemplifies this truth. Graham was the life of the party, indifferent to maximizing his potential, until a tragic event—the death of a cousin—jolted him into action. He transformed his life, abandoning vices and adopting disciplined habits, eventually becoming a CrossFit world champion and a beacon of personal growth and spirituality.

This transformation highlights the power of habits, a theme reinforced by Aristotle's wisdom: excellence is not an act but a habit. Successful people, whether athletes like Michael Jordan or entrepreneurs like James Altucher, cultivate positive habits that propel them forward. These habits—such as waking up early, maintaining a to-do list, and expressing gratitude—are not about morality but optimizing human potential.

The journey to greatness involves introspection and commitment to change. It's about identifying bad habits and replacing them with positive ones, even if they're as simple as making your bed. Admiral William McRaven and Gretchen Rubin both advocate this small act as a catalyst for achieving bigger goals.

For those seeking guidance, observing the habits of successful individuals can offer valuable insights. From networking to reading daily, these habits create opportunities and improve one's life. Embracing a morning routine or dedicating time to solitude and focus can enhance creativity and productivity.

Ultimately, greatness is achieved through consistent, positive habits that align with one's vision. Whether it's forming a team to support your dreams or taking part in challenges like the 28-Day Morning Routine, the key is to stay connected to your goals and persevere through setbacks. As Benjamin Franklin said, "Energy and persistence conquer all things," and by cultivating positive habits, you set yourself on a path to greatness.

From Iverson to Holmberg: The Habit That Drives Greatness

In the world of music, Justin Bieber’s meteoric rise from a YouTube sensation to global superstar was no solo act; it was a team effort led by his manager, Scooter Braun. Braun, inspired by NBA coach Phil Jackson’s philosophy on teamwork, understood that success is not achieved in isolation. This approach to building a winning team has been echoed by leaders across various fields, highlighting the importance of collaboration.

Braun’s journey began with a passion for basketball, driven by the dream of creating the perfect team. In college, he honed his skills as a nightclub promoter, learning the vital lesson of cultivating strong relationships. His company, SB Projects, thrives on this principle, comprising friends and contacts from his past.

Reflecting on personal experiences, the narrative of toxic teams resonates. The story of playing for a coach who ruled by fear rather than fostering team chemistry reveals the detrimental effects of negative energy. Success demands unity and shared direction, whether in sports, business, or personal circles.

The concept of surrounding oneself with greatness is vital. Don Yaeger, a respected author, shares wisdom from Coach John Wooden: “You will never outperform your inner circle.” This insight underscores the importance of choosing the right companions and mentors to propel you toward success.

Mentorship plays a crucial role in this journey. Scooter Braun credits multiple mentors, including Jermaine Dupri and David Geffen, for shaping his path. Their guidance was instrumental in strategizing Bieber’s career, proving the power of mentorship in navigating challenges and achieving greatness.

Positive energy is another key ingredient for success. Braun emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positivity over sheer intelligence, believing that positive energy fosters winning chemistry. This principle applies universally, as demonstrated by sports teams with average players defeating All-Star teams through unity and adherence to the game plan.

Transparency and communication are essential for overcoming friction within teams. Braun likens this to basketball, where a missed shot shouldn’t overshadow the team’s overall goal. Leaders like Jack Welch advocate for clear communication and strategic planning, where everyone’s role is aligned for collective success.

Family plays a pivotal role in Braun’s philosophy. His tattoo, “Family,” symbolizes the importance of love and support, transcending business. Scooter’s unwavering support for Bieber during troubled times reflects this belief that his clients are family, deserving of loyalty and guidance.

In essence, success is a collaborative endeavor. Whether in business or personal life, building and nurturing a winning team is paramount. The journey to greatness is not one taken alone; it’s a shared path where everyone thrives together.

How Did Braun and Jackson's Teamwork Philosophy Propel Justin Bieber to Stardom?

In a world driven by ambition and personal achievement, the story of Adam Braun serves as a refreshing reminder that true greatness often lies in the service of others. Unlike his brother Scooter, who dazzled with Hollywood flair, Adam chose a quieter path, one rooted in empathy and purpose. His journey began with a simple encounter during his Semester at Sea—a young boy in India whose sole wish was for a pencil, symbolizing the hunger for education in places where opportunities are scarce.

Adam's life transformed after this pivotal moment. He founded Pencils of Promise, a "for-purpose" organization dedicated to building schools and empowering communities worldwide. His vision wasn't just to hand out pencils; it was to create sustainable change by combining business acumen with humanitarian ideals. This approach attracted others seeking to serve, inspiring them to participate in a mission larger than themselves.

While Adam's path was unique, his story resonates universally. It challenges the conventional notion that success precedes service. Instead, Adam exemplified that aligning passion with purpose can lead to profound fulfillment, impacting lives beyond one's own. His journey underscores the importance of stepping outside one's comfort zone, embracing vulnerability, and transforming adversity into opportunity.

Through acts of service—be it volunteering, sharing talents, or supporting financially—Adam illustrated that greatness isn't about individual accolades but about uplifting others. His narrative compels us to reflect on our own capacity to contribute, urging us to integrate service into our daily lives, whether through simple acts of kindness or grand gestures of change.

Ultimately, Adam's story is a testament to the transformative power of empathy and the boundless potential of serving others. In a society often focused on self-interest, he reminds us that true fulfillment comes from being part of something bigger, from dedicating our lives to making a difference, one pencil at a time.

From Pencil Dreams to Global Impact: Adam Braun's Journey of Purpose

Helen Keller once said, “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” This sentiment is echoed in stories of individuals who turned dreams into reality. 

Take Steve, a physical therapist with dreams of a beachside practice, who doubted the feasibility of his vision. Yet, vision isn't just ambition; it's dreams coupled with actionable goals. Angel Martinez, CEO of Deckers Brands, exemplifies this. From saving for Converse sneakers as a child to co-founding Reebok, his vision was about identity and belonging.

Vision involves aligning desires with identity. My childhood dream of being an All-American athlete shaped years of dedication to sports. Crafting a vision requires clarity and purpose, using tools like a Certificate of Achievement and Personal Statement Plans. A vision should be your living plan, propelling you through life's challenges.

Adversity, both external and internal, can be transformative. Kyle Maynard, born with amniotic band syndrome, became a champion wrestler and climber of Mount Kilimanjaro, teaching us that greatness arises from facing challenges head-on. Nicole Lapin overcame financial cluelessness to become a bestselling author, proving that internal adversity can be conquered through learning and adaptation.

Greatness involves a champion's mindset—focus, belief, and emotional intelligence. My own journey, culminating in becoming an All-American in college, was powered by a clear vision. Conversations with Steven Kotler revealed that flow, an optimal state where performance peaks, is accessible to anyone. Shawn Johnson, Olympic gold medalist, embodies this mindset, emphasizing self-improvement over external validation.

Embracing a champion's mindset involves visualization, meditation, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence. Visualize goals as already accomplished, meditate to clear distractions, practice gratitude and self-reflection, and regulate emotions. Greatness is a journey of growth, anchored by belief in oneself and relentless pursuit of dreams.

Stories like Christian Howes', who turned his prison sentence into a successful jazz career, demonstrate the power of hustle—doing whatever it takes to overcome adversity. This mindset is shared by Michael Phelps and Tom Brady, who pursued success with unwavering commitment. Hustle isn't just hard work; it's about embracing the grind and overcoming setbacks.

Rich Roll's transformation from burnout to ultramarathon competitor shows the importance of mastering one's body. He embraced a healthier lifestyle, proving that physical health is essential for achieving life's purpose. Chalene Johnson reinforces that anything is possible with a plan, highlighting the impact of health on personal and professional life.

Successful habits are foundational to greatness. While athletes like Allen Iverson thrived on raw talent, sustainable success requires disciplined habits, as illustrated by Graham Holmberg's transformation into a CrossFit champion. Embrace positive habits, inspired by successful individuals, to propel yourself forward.

Building a winning team, as demonstrated by Scooter Braun's management of Justin Bieber, underscores the importance of collaboration. Success demands unity and shared direction, whether in sports or business. Mentorship, positivity, and transparency are key to overcoming friction and achieving collective success.

The power of service is transformative. Adam Braun's Pencils of Promise exemplifies how serving others can lead to personal fulfillment. Greatness isn't just personal achievement; it's using our gifts to uplift others. By choosing a path of service, we create a ripple effect of positive change, living a life full of purpose and dignity. Embrace your passions and let them guide you to greatness.

Home

Trending Books

News & Mags

Relax

Curated

Collections

Key Ideas & Notes

Insights

Highlights & Bookmarks

Listening History

The School of Greatness: A Real-World Guide to Living Bigger, Loving Deeper, and Leaving a Legacy

Lewis Howes

9 Key ideas

24 MINS

4.6 (324)

What do Helen Keller, Shawn Johnson, and Kyle Maynard have in common?

They turned vision, grit, and resilience into extraordinary achievements. Whether it’s conquering personal limitations, climbing Kilimanjaro, or winning Olympic gold, their stories remind us that greatness isn’t handed to you—it’s built through relentless pursuit, collaboration, and service.