How Champions Think

About the Author

Bob Rotella is a distinguished sports psychologist renowned for his work with elite athletes across various disciplines. He served as the director of the Sports Psychology Department at the University of Virginia, where he honed his expertise in the mental aspects of high performance. Rotella's career spans decades of helping individuals reach their full potential, not just in sports but also in business and life. His insights into the psychology of success have made him a sought-after coach for world-class athletes, including LeBron James and golf legends like Pat Bradley and Tom Kite.

Rotella's approach is deeply rooted in the belief that the mind is the most powerful tool in achieving success. His bestselling book, Golf Is Not a Game of Perfect, revolutionized the way golfers and other athletes approach their game, focusing not just on physical skill but also on mental resilience. In How Champions Think, Rotella expands on these ideas, providing a comprehensive guide to developing the mindset required for extraordinary success.

Main Idea

At the core of How Champions Think is the idea that success is less about innate talent or luck and more about cultivating the right mindset. Rotella argues that champions—whether in sports, business, or life—share certain mental habits that set them apart from others. These include nurturing a positive self-image, setting ambitious yet realistic goals, and learning to grow from setbacks. By adopting these habits, anyone can unlock their potential and achieve greatness.

Rotella’s philosophy is that the journey to success starts in the mind. He emphasizes the importance of optimism, confidence, and a relentless commitment to one’s goals. Through strategic practice and the ability to perform under pressure, champions distinguish themselves from the average. This mindset, according to Rotella, is not just for elite athletes but is accessible to anyone willing to put in the mental work.

Table of Contents

• Adopt a Positive Self-Image
• Commit to Diligent Practice
• Grow from Challenges and Setbacks
• Conclusion

Adopt a Positive Self-Image

Rotella begins by stressing the importance of a positive self-image. He argues that how you view yourself fundamentally shapes your ability to achieve success. Your mindset—comprised of your beliefs about your abilities and the world—can either propel you toward your goals or hold you back.

Choosing Optimism

Champions choose to be optimistic, Rotella writes. This optimism isn’t blind or naive but is a deliberate choice to focus on potential positive outcomes, even in the face of uncertainty. Rotella explains, "Optimism doesn't guarantee success, but pessimism almost always leads to failure." This mindset allows champions to remain resilient and adaptable when faced with challenges.

• An athlete who anticipates winning is more likely to stay calm and composed during a critical moment.
• A business leader who believes in the potential of a risky venture is more likely to invest the necessary resources and energy to make it successful.
• A student who expects to do well on an exam is more likely to study effectively and perform well under pressure.

Rotella argues that optimism can be cultivated by strengthening your belief in your ability to achieve your goals. One effective way to do this is by finding role models who have overcome similar challenges. Seeing that others have succeeded despite obstacles can reinforce your own belief in your potential.

Developing Confidence

Confidence, according to Rotella, is another crucial component of a champion's mindset. While optimism is a general belief in eventual success, confidence is more specific—it’s the trust in your abilities in the present moment. Rotella states, "Confidence is the key to exceptional success because it empowers you to work hard and perform at your highest level."

To develop confidence, Rotella offers two main strategies: