Everyone loves an underdog story, but living one? That is a whole different challenge. The struggle, the doubt, and those nights when giving up feels like the easiest choice. It’s tough, but that’s exactly why it feels so good when you finally prove them wrong. Being the underdog is not a weakness. It is a secret weapon. No one sees you coming. No one expects you to win. And when you do? That victory hits different! Every champion, record-breaker, and history-maker started at the bottom. If you are pushing through setbacks, proving doubters wrong, or just trying to keep going, these words will fire you up.
Quote of the week: “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes it’s the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.” — Mary Anne Radmacher
Not every victory is loud. Sometimes, just showing up the next day is a win.
These are 14 examples of underdogs I share with you, all of their stories are shared inside this episode:
1. Gillian Lynne (Choreographer of Cats on Broadway):
2. Tom Brady – NFL Quaterback
3. Chris Gardner – Entrepreneur with a movie made based on his story
4. Misty Copeland – Ballet dancer tha broke racial barriers
5. Erik Weihenmayer – Mountaineer that has been blind since age 13
6. Viola Davis – Actress that overcame overwhelming odds
7. Susan Boyle – Singer that broke all stereo types
8. Michael Jordan – Basketball pplayer that was rejected
9. Robert Downey Jr. – Actor considered a lost cause and given up on
10. Liz Murray – Author & Speaker form homelesss at 16 to Harvard University
11. Fred Rogers – Children's TV creator that shattered TV norms
12. Simone Biles – Gymnastics that overcame many obstacles and
Criticism
13. Frida Kahlo – Famous Mexican Artist that broke through many barriers
14. James “Buster” Douglas – Boxer that had the greatest sports upset
“Every point we covered today will shape part of your story.
Some will challenge you. Others will champion you.
But all of them—when understood—can and will shape you.
Your dream isn’t just possible. It’s waiting on the version of you who’s ready.
Until next time—keep daring, keep developing, and most of all, keep dreaming.”
What resonated with you today? I want to explore how I can help you. If you want to take me up on my offer then, reach out to me for a complementary Next-Level Dream Chat. It only takes about 30 minutes to get through. We can start diving into what your dreams are and what’s holding you back. You would be amazed at how much we can uncover together in a short time to get you started. It’s the first step that is the most important,
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On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!