Top 16 Characteristics of Greatness with Don Yaeger

What does it take to achieve greatness?
Don Yaeger has been mentored by legendary coaches like John Wooden.  He’s interviewed hundreds of the top champions in the world and even lived with athletes to learn exactly what makes them amazing.
Through his years of experience with these legends, he’s discovered 16 common characteristics of greatness.
I sit down with the 7 time New York Times best selling author as he shares with us the secret to achieving greatness in your own life on episode number 17 of The School of Greatness podcast.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:26 — 43.9MB) | EmbedSubscribe on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio

I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’ – Muhammad Ali

Who was the most inspiring athlete that motivated Yeager to start writing booksWhat it was like to spend time with Walter Payton during the last 10 weeks of his lifeWhat it was like being mentored by John Wooden for the last 10 years of his lifeHow to maintain a positive and valuable inner circle (and how this is essential for greatness)That “life is all about a series of pay it forward opportunities and mentoring is the greatest one”The importance of reaching out to mentors when seeking themWho the most inspiring athlete is for Yaeger: Michael JordanAbout the intimidating presence that Michael Jordan hasYaeger’s explanation for seeking greatnessWhy you must hate losing more than you like winning

Which is more valuable: an amazing skill-set or an amazing mindsetWhy sustainability is so important when seeking greatness Why Yaeger appreciates Derek Jeter so much as an athleteYaeger’s predictions for Kobe BryantWhat’s going on next for Yaeger: Make a Wish FoundationPlus much more…“You will never outperform your inner circle.” – John Wooden“You show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.” – John Wooden“Competitive greatness is your ability to be your very best when your best is needed.”“A loss is not a failure until you make an excuse.” – Michael Jordan“You gotta do common things, uncommonly well.” – Don Yaeger“Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.” – Don Yaeger“Greatness is not attainable, but in the pursuit of it, you can achieve excellence.” – Vince Lombardi

Books Mentioned in this Episode:
Never Die EasyThe Game Plan for LifeWooden on Leadership16 Characteristics of GreatnessWish Granted (Out Soon)Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
What was the biggest characteristic of greatness that stood out for you in this episode, and do you think Don is missing something in his top 16?  Please share you thoughts in the comments section below.
Tagged as: championship, don yaeger, greatness, leaders, power
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