So, picture this: a guy who goes from casually skiing for fun to competing in the Olympics in just four years. Sounds nuts, right? That’s my story. Buckle up, because this ride is anything but ordinary.

Let’s rewind a bit. Growing up, skiing was just something I did for kicks. No grand aspirations, no Olympic dreams. Just me, some skis, and the slopes. Fast forward a few years, and I’m strapping myself to the roof of a car to perfect my aerodynamics. Yep, you read that right. Not your typical training regimen, but then again, my journey was never typical.

I recently had the chance to dive deep into this wild ride on the “Success for the Athletic-Minded Man” podcast. It was a trip down memory lane, sharing the highs, the lows, and the downright bizarre moments that got me to the Olympics. The episode isn’t just about skiing; it’s about pushing boundaries, embracing discomfort, and doing what others wouldn’t dream of doing.

Think about it: zero to Olympic hero in four years. It wasn’t a smooth ride. There were countless moments of doubt, pain, and sheer exhaustion. But I had a secret weapon—my mantra: “Do what the competition isn’t willing to do.” This mindset was my north star, guiding me through the rough patches and keeping me focused on the goal.

One of the quirkiest parts of my training? Strapping myself to the roof of a moving car to master my aerodynamics. Crazy? Absolutely. Effective? You bet. It taught me a lot about facing fears and shattering norms. And it worked. I went from a complete novice to competing at the highest level, using a mix of visualization, biofeedback, and sheer determination.

Visualization was key. I’d spend hours mentally rehearsing my runs, feeling every turn and movement in my mind before I hit the slopes. Biofeedback helped me fine-tune my body’s responses, allowing me to push my limits safely. These techniques were game-changers, helping me compete against athletes with years more experience.

But my story doesn’t end at the Olympics. I carried these principles into my professional life. As a New York Times bestselling author of eight books, including “The Earthquake” and “The Age of Speed,” and as a sought-after corporate speaker, I’ve always strived to inspire others to push past their limits. Leading expeditions to the summit and naming Himalayan mountains after everyday heroes are just a few examples of how I continue to challenge myself and those around me.

This podcast episode is more than just a recounting of my Olympic journey; it’s a masterclass in mindset, resilience, and the power of unconventional thinking. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best in sports, a new career high, or tackling a personal challenge, the strategies I share can apply to any goal. It’s all about embracing the extraordinary and pushing past your comfort zone.

If you don’t have time to listen to the entire episode or if something resonates with you but you can’t jot it down, grab your free copy of the Action Plan from this episode. You’ll also get access to action plans from every episode of the podcast at www.JimHarshawJr.com/Action 

So, what’s your version of strapping yourself to a car roof? What unconventional step are you willing to take to achieve your dreams? Remember, success often lies just beyond our comfort zones. Embrace the journey, push your limits, and do what the competition isn’t willing to do.