Endurance athletes are significantly represented among wealthy individuals, surpassing the general population
This distinction raises some intriguing questions: what sets them apart?
What can we learn from their unusual success to replicate it in our own lives?
For three decades, I have dedicated myself to training endurance champions.
My mission and passion in life are to help all runners reach their God-given potential, both on the track and in life, regardless of their age or skill level—from novice runners to elite athletes.
As part of this personal mission, I am also committed to helping people manage their finances prosperously.
With sixteen years of experience in one of the largest public retirement systems in the United States, I feel compelled to assist others in realizing their potential in terms of wealth and well-being.
During these three decades as a coach, I have observed a strong correlation between endurance running and wealth-building habits.
Both endurance running and the pursuit of wealth are driven by character traits that demand goal-setting, focus, commitment, perseverance, and, importantly, hard work.
It takes unwavering commitment and a deep sense of purpose to reach one’s maximum potential both in wealth-building and endurance sports—especially in running.
I am not the only one to notice this correlation between endurance running and wealth-building.
The extremely popular Rock and Roll marathon series, for example, targets endurance athletes due to their high financial gains and commitment to physical fitness.
So, what are the specific characteristics shared by champions of endurance and wealth?
Let’s explore these questions, providing practical guidance for you to apply to your own life.
Trait #1: Commitment to Big Goals
True champions don’t just talk about their goals; they set challenging targets and pursue them with courage and determination.
Self-sacrifice and self-discipline are not mere words to these champions but a way of life.
They overcome laziness and procrastination by setting meaningful and challenging goals.
Unlike the crowd, champions often evaluate their goals differently, asking crucial questions:
“How much do I really want to achieve this goal?”
“Is it worth paying the physical, emotional, and spiritual price for this goal?”
“Does this goal align with my deepest values?”
If the answers to these questions are affirmative, champions eliminate all distractions and find a path to victory.
They persist in the race until they cross the finish line.
The best don’t just dedicate 50% or 75% to their goals. They give 100%.
Reflecting on this, how much time and effort are you really investing in your most important wealth-building goals?
Don’t Believe in Quick Success Solutions
Instant success is an illusion promoted by charlatans who promise much and deliver little.
Champions do the daily work necessary to reach the finish line.
They also understand that achieving a goal involves 20% perspiration and 80% determination.
Champions don’t waste time searching for instant success strategies, unlike the majority.
They lace up their shoes every day and head out the door, regardless of the circumstances.
Champions are known for working harder, pushing themselves further, and refusing to give up.
Are you taking the easy path to achieve your wealth-building goals?
It will be necessary to eliminate the instant success mentality from your life.
Find a Mentor
The most effective approach to success is to find someone who has already mastered what you want to achieve.
True champions choose a coach who has lived, preaches, and trains what they teach.
A champion’s coach isn’t just involved in theory; they reside in the land of champions.
These coaches have been there, done that, and now wish to help others walk the same path.
The best coaches understand the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat because they have experienced both.
They share their knowledge to help their students stay strong in adversity and celebrate in moments of achievement.
I have never met a champion without an exceptional coach.
Have you found a world-class coach or mentor to help you reach the next level?
Pace for Victory
Many people give up on their dreams just steps away from the finish line, but not champions.
They pace themselves to win the race.
Champions know that the fastest runner isn’t always the winner.
They’ve learned that a slow and steady approach often results in victory.
Champions use their energy wisely.
Their smart and consistent pacing gets them to the finish line in record time, ahead of the pack.
They overtake other competitors near the finish line because they run with intensity and intelligence.
Are you pacing yourself effectively in the race for wealth-building?
Get Up When You Fall
Years ago, John Maxwell wrote a book titled “Failing Forward.”
The central message of the book is to treat mistakes as true learning experiences and get back in the race as quickly as possible.
I was delighted to read Maxwell’s book due to the emphasis he places on grace and responsibility.
Maxwell offers a healthy balance between forgiving ourselves and seeking ways to improve future performance.
Moreover, the book’s title is wonderful. “Failing forward” means getting back on the horse, no matter how many times we’ve fallen.
Champions “fail forward” quickly and get back in the race.
They understand that there is no time for self-pity.
Hesitation has no place in a champion’s mindset.
True champions return to the race with courage and determination.
Is it time for you to “fail forward” and get back in the race for wealth-building?
Harness Worry and Fear to Your Advantage
With all the negative news about the state of the economy in the press, it’s easy to worry and fear the worst.
However, worry is advance payment for problems. It is a waste of time and an enemy of hope.
Champions learn to master fear by developing a resilient mindset and not relying on luck.
They don’t just “wish” for success; they work hard to achieve it, even in the face of their fears.
True champions remain mentally and spiritually strong in adversity, even in difficult and painful circumstances.
They replace worry and fear with faith and determination.
Faith neutralizes fear. Champions continue their race towards victory, regardless of the obstacles that may arise.
Are you overcoming your fears in the pursuit of your wealth-building goals?
Go the Extra Mile
Champions don’t settle for doing just the minimum necessary.
They always go the extra mile.
It’s those few additional steps that make all the difference and set them apart from the rest of the crowd.
True champions are willing to do the small things most people avoid.
They complete their daily workouts, regardless of the weather.
They run even when they don’t “feel” like running.
They understand that temporary pain results in lasting gains.
Champions are willing to forego some immediate pleasures in exchange for greater rewards in the future.
They maintain a consistent training routine to win the race, no matter the circumstances.
Going beyond each day is what keeps champions out of the maze of mediocrity.
What extra steps do you need to take today to improve your chances in the race for wealth-building?
Crossing the Finish Line
In summary, the characteristics that lead to success in endurance and wealth are surprisingly similar.
The principles that lead to victory in one area apply equally well to the other.
Both disciplines require smart goal setting, long-term thinking, excellent training, self-control, the ability to get back up after a fall, overcoming worry, and going beyond.
There are no shortcuts to success. Self-sacrifice and self-discipline are more than mere words to champions of endurance and wealth. They are a way of life.
The lesson is clear: convenience is not the solution.
Get-rich-quick thinking, greed, and the pursuit of instant gratification harm our society and should be left behind, like dinosaurs.
As a society, we need to return to fundamental principles: setting smart goals, working hard, exercising self-discipline, cultivating honesty, practicing selflessness, and other virtues that made our nation great and that will increase our wealth.
It’s no coincidence that endurance athletes tend to be more financially successful than the general population.
They have learned from their success in sports that delayed gratification, disciplined effort, courage, and faith are valuable tools that can help you achieve your goals.
So, keep moving forward. Continue your race for wealth-building with the goal of winning. See you at the finish line!
Larry C. Weber is a former nationally ranked long-distance runner known for his impressive achievements.
He is the all-time record holder of The Original Ultimate Runner Competition, where he completed a series of incredible events in one day, including a 10k, 400 meters, 100 meters, mile, and a marathon.
His mark surpassed those set by national ultramarathon record holders, national road race champions, Olympic 1500 and 5000 meter runners, and many other renowned athletes.
Larry C. Weber distinguished himself by setting the all-time record at “The Ultimate Runner Competition.”
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