Grover laments that so many professional athletes take their contracts for granted and begin to celebrate and enjoy their new lifestyle without doing the work to really become great. He feels that those who had to work their way to the top of the game, such as Dwayne Wade, have a real appreciation for their job and an intrinsic work ethic that cannot be rivaled. Grover challenges the reader to consider what they would have to sacrifice to achieve their goals (e.g., free time, money, personal life) and claims that many people simply aren’t willing to make the necessary sacrifices to get there. He urges the reader to stop perceiving others as lucky and recognize the work it takes them to operate on a high level.

He points to the example of the NBA season that was delayed due to labor strikes. Some players took the time as an excuse to rest and then found themselves unprepared for their condensed schedule. Meanwhile, Kobe Bryant continued working out twice a day in advance of the season. Grover praises Bryant’s ability to continue what he had started and maintain his greatness, writing, “Anyone can start something. Few can finish” (151). 

One common distraction is the money that success may bring. Many people begin to focus on their wealth and prestige rather than working on the skills that made them wealthy in the first place. Instead of investing in status symbols, Grover argues that professional athletes should invest in further training to extend their careers and success. This section of Grover’s argument reflects the limitations of his framework, as it presumes a level of financial success that is relatively uncommon in the general population. Nevertheless, his broader advice to avoid making money the object of one’s life echoes ideas found throughout personal development literature.

Chapter Lessons

• Maintain a consistent work ethic.
• Getting a prized opportunity is the beginning—not the end—of your achievement.
• Money and fame can distract you from more significant accomplishments.

Reflection Questions

• What is most likely to interfere with your commitment to your goal? How can you eliminate or minimize this distraction?
• Where are you in your journey to your goals? How has your work ethic increased or waned? Why?
• What must you sacrifice to reach your chosen destination? Are you willing to do this?