Motivational Monday: 5 Books That Provide Inspiration In the Search For Success

Motivational Monday: 5 Books That Provide Inspiration In the Search For Success

Movies, songs, affirmations. There is a plethora of options when it comes to sources of motivation for swimmers. Yet another addition to this list is books! Words are a fantastic option when it comes to ways to be inspired. Books allow us to connect to some of the greatest athletes in our sport. Through reading the stories of others, we can be inspired to write our own. Here are five of the best books for swimmers to read:

Beneath the Surface by Michael Phelps

Written by arguably the greatest swimmer of all time, Beneath the Surface is the perfect read for any swimmer. In this autobiography, Michael Phelps tells the story of his career from his own perspective. Phelps doesn’t leave out any details as he discusses his highs and lows. He shows that obstacles are inevitable, but they can be overcome through hard work and dedication.

Beneath the Surface is a great book choice for a swimmer simply looking to learn more about Phelps’ decorated career. It’s also a fantastic option for a swimmer looking for a burst of inspiration.

Order it on Amazon here.

Relentless Spirit by Missy Franklin

The word “relentless” is defined as “oppressively constant and incessant.” In Missy Franklin’s Relentless Spirit, the renowned swimmer describes how she displayed relentlessness during her career. Similar to Beneath the Surface, Franklin tells stories of both challenge and success. Franklin also gives readers a deep glimpse into her personal life, describing how much of an impact her parents had on her career. By giving this look behind the scenes, she shows how athletes are people, too.

Just like Phelps’ autobiography, Franklin’s is the perfect read for a swimmer looking for inspiration from a decorated athlete. Order it on Amazon here.

Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins

If you have ever been interested in the mental side of sports, then you have most likely heard of David Goggins. In fact, Goggins has been nicknamed “the toughest man alive.” As a retired Navy SEAL, ultramarathon runner, and ultra-distance triathlete, he knows his stuff when it comes to mental strength. In his book, Can’t Hurt Me, Goggins describes his rough upbringing and transformation into a world-class athlete. His book is the perfect read for a swimmer looking to up their mental game.

By telling true stories of overcoming trials and tribulations and giving techniques for developing mental strength, Goggins’ book is a great tool for swimmers. Order it on Amazon here.

Believe It by Nick Foles

As a Philadelphia Eagles fan, this addition to the list may be a bit biased. However, I truly believe that the story of the 2017 Philadelphia Eagles is one that many swimmers can look to for inspiration. When star quarterback Carson Wentz went down with a torn ACL, it was up to backup Nick Foles to lead the team into the playoffs. Despite constantly being labeled as an underdog, Foles and the Eagles defied the odds and brought Philadelphia its first Super Bowl victory. In Believe It, Nick Foles tells of the many failures that came before his success. His words show that people often only see “the highlight reel” and neglect the many hurdles that were overcome in order to get to that point.

Believe It is the perfect source of inspiration for any swimmer going through a rough patch. It’s also a fantastic read for anyone that feels like an underdog. Foles’ book shows that anything is truly possible if you believe it! Order it on Amazon here.

Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols

During my senior year of high school, my English teacher told my class about Blue Mind. Weaning away from the other books on this list, Blue Mind looks at the mental side of swimming from a scientific level. The full title of the book, Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, Or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do, describes exactly that. Dr. Wallace Nichols explains how being in or around water can improve our mental health and overall well-being.

Blue Mind is a great read for swimmers looking to see the sport from a different perspective. Through reading it, swimmers may see that there is more value in our beloved sport than we realize. Order it on Amazon here.

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whoisthis

7 months ago

i liked the no limits one more than beneath the surface