Adopted Quote by John Wooden
“A Dominican monk, Father Henri Didon, used it as a watchword for his pupils in sports at Arcueil College in Paris. Baron Pierre De Coubertin, founder of the modern Olympics, made it the Olympic Games ideal adopted at the Antwerp Games in 1920. I never mentioned winning to my players. I mentioned constantly that all I wanted them to do was the best they could. If they're good enough, the score will be to their liking; if they're not, it won't be but that's nothing to hang their head about. Sometimes the other fellow is just better than you are.”
About This Quote
Focus on personal excellence rather than external outcomes, trusting that results will follow effort.
In simple terms: Do your best; outcomes will follow.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize effort over winning.
Themes
excellence
effort
sports
mindset
competition
Mood
determined
inspirational
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- coaching
- team building
- personal development
- competition
- athletics
Key Concepts
growth mindset
intrinsic motivation
sportsmanship
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you measure success beyond scores?
- What motivates you to give your best?
A Different Perspective
Winning is not always within control; external factors affect results.
