Usain Bolt's inspirational reads for personal excellence
What's the story
Unearth the literary gems that fueled Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man, on his path to personal and professional greatness.
From empowering self-help classics to raw autobiographies of fellow sports giants, these books shed light on the art of conquering adversity, defining your dreams, and cultivating unshakeable discipline.
Immerse yourself in Bolt's curated book recommendations and let the inspiration flow.
Journey
'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho
Usain Bolt highly recommends The Alchemist for its profound message about the importance of following one's dreams.
The novel centers around Santiago, a shepherd boy who dreams of discovering a worldly treasure. Its themes of adventure, self-discovery, and destiny strongly resonate with Bolt's life journey.
He asserts that this book encourages individuals to listen to their hearts and relentlessly pursue their passions.
Perseverance
'Long Walk to Freedom' by Nelson Mandela
Long Walk to Freedom, the autobiography of Nelson Mandela, is also on Bolt's list.
This book traces Mandela's life from his childhood through his struggle as a freedom fighter against apartheid in South Africa to his 27-year imprisonment.
Bolt is deeply inspired by Mandela's resilience and unwavering commitment to justice. This book teaches you perseverance, if nothing else.
Mindset
'Bounce' by Matthew Syed
In "Bounce," Matthew Syed shatters the talent myth and champions the power of practice.
Even Usain Bolt couldn't stop praising it, "It's a book that shows what really drives success - hard work, determination, a growth mindset."
Drawing on examples from sports to music, Syed convincingly argues that true excellence is not about being born with a special gift, but rather the outcome of dedication and effort.
Determination
'Relentless' by Tim S Grover
Tim S Grover's Relentless is all about unlocking that ultimate success by being unstoppable in your determination and focus.
As the trainer of legendary athletes like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, Grover knows a thing or two about what it takes to be truly unstoppable.
Bolt loves how this book pushes you to not just aim for success, but strive for complete domination in your field through mental toughness.
Growth
'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success' by Carol S Dweck
Carol S Dweck's Mindset delves into the transformative power of "fixed" and "growth" mindsets, asserting that our most basic beliefs about our abilities dramatically shape our lives.
Usain Bolt loves it because it encourages readers to view challenges as stepping stones to growth rather than roadblocks.
The idea that effort trumps talent, and that you can develop intelligence no matter your innate abilities resonated with him.