Apolo Ohno: Train Your Mind and Body to Achieve Olympic Level Results

Defining Greatness

Apolo Ohno shares his vision of greatness, emphasizing fulfillment and impact over traditional success metrics. He believes true greatness involves doing what you love and making a positive impact on others. Apolo highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in human interactions, reflecting on his father's spiritual teachings and his own journey beyond sports 1 2.

Greatness to me is someone who has really, truly kind of understood that their first region of success was actually only a way that they could help other people and using that tool.

--- Apolo Ohno

Lewis Howes acknowledges Apolo's continuous efforts to inspire others, noting his impressive transition from athlete to motivational figure 3.

   

Impact of Failure

Failure has played a significant role in shaping Apolo's character and career. He explains that his intense drive and resilience stem from his experiences of loss and disappointment. Apolo's relentless pursuit of excellence was fueled by a deep aversion to losing, which pushed him to constantly improve and adapt 4.

Whenever I lost, I came back stronger. Really look, within those failures, I think we always have the ability to kind of bounce back.

--- Apolo Ohno

He recounts his journey from a rebellious teenager to a national champion, highlighting how early rejections and challenges motivated him to succeed 5.

   

Staying Positive

Maintaining a positive mindset has been crucial for Apolo in achieving his long-term goals. He stresses the importance of entering competitions with a positive and prepared mindset, believing that this approach leads to better outcomes 6.

Gratitude is the antidote of anger.

--- Lewis Howes

Apolo also discusses the role of gratitude and happiness in his life, noting that these emotions are essential for overcoming obstacles and staying motivated 7.