Lessons from the Usain Bolt phenomenon

Running 100m in 9.58 seconds. The Jamaican sprinter, Usain Bolt, with his signature lightning bolt sign is a legend on the track. He has earned the names of "Insane Bolt", "Lightning Bolt". Handy foam constructions called "Bolt Arms" have literally taken over the world's track fans.

Bolt's win in record time has left the competition far behind. Take a closer look and you see the single reason for that explosive performance. It is shooting out of the starting blocks with a record reaction time.




Usain's career has had many speed bumps. His coaches abandoned him for lack of dedication earlier in his career. His practical jokes alienated him from friends and family. Vehicle accidents slowed his training schedules. An injury laden last finish at 2005 Helsinki games triggered a comeback.

"Anything is possible if I put my mind to it" Bolt insisted at his first major success after setting realistic goals for upcoming competitions.

His key to success? Planning, preparation and attention to nuances.

He slows down as he gets closer to the finish line just to check on his competition. Something unheard of in 100 meter sprints. At times it appears as if he has enough time to text his friend, have a bagel and complete the race. Amazing, thinking his competitors are world class runners who have set records themselves.

He repeatedly says "I can go faster". The results have been impressive thus far.

Gold in 200m at World Youth championships.
Gold in 200m at World Junior championships.
Gold in 100m, 200m, 4X100m relay at Beijing Olympics.
Gold in 100m, 200m, 4X100m relay at Berlin World championships.

"I just blew my mind and blew the world's mind".

All interactions, both in business and personal life, with high rate of success are those which have had a solid beginning. Personally, I have achieved significant success with good starts. I have worked twice or thrice as hard when the beginnings were not as stellar. Preparation is key on how we react to an event, how we compartmentalize our actions and how we plan & for the next event.

"I can have all the fun I want before the race. When the starter says, ‘On your mark’, I refocus, and then it’s time to go. I know what I have to do, so there’s no worries".

Bolt's story is a lesson to learn from both our success and missteps, remain optimistic and passionate about what we do, plan well and get quickly off the blocks to shred the next challenge and, most importantly, have fun doing it.