Train your mind

The “I’ve arrived” mentality is incredibly dangerous—it cannot be overstated. To achieve greatness, you must actively manage your mind. You must trick it, discipline it, and use repetition to guide it. But never assume your mind will automatically make the right choices. The mind is a remarkable tool, like a powerful computer, but it needs a skilled operator—you.

Consider running a marathon or an ultramarathon. You don’t start by telling yourself, “I’m going to run 26 miles today.” That mindset is overwhelming and will likely lead to failure before you even begin. Instead, you break it down. You tell yourself, “Let’s get to that stop sign,” or, “We’re one-eighth of the way there.” Small, manageable goals trick your mind into progress. Many runners follow this approach—five minutes of running, two minutes of walking. It’s not about winning the race but finishing it, and for most of us, that’s the true victory.

Even with years of experience, I still have to trick my mind. I lay out my running gear the night before because if I don’t, my mind might find an excuse to skip the run. I have to hold myself accountable, often painfully so. Comfort is alluring, but I know that my greatest achievements have always been outside of my comfort zone. Growth only happens when you push beyond it.

This journey is not a weekend event or a quick fix. It’s a lifelong pursuit of discipline, self-awareness, and progress. To succeed, you must use every tool at your disposal—books, courses, speeches, podcasts, self-reflection—all of it. You must constantly inspire yourself and adapt.

There’s no final destination in personal growth. You may reach a version of yourself that feels satisfying, but as soon as you do, you’ll realize there’s another level to strive for. That’s the essence of evolution—becoming smarter, stronger, and more resilient over time. The journey to becoming your best self is ongoing, and that’s what makes it worthwhile.