Golden Rules

Since 2004 no Olympic athlete has received more international exposure than Michael Phelps. And by his side throughout this period has been his coach, Bob Bowman. The two men met when Phelps was just 11 years old. Bowman sensed that the kid had talent - lots of it - but he also knew that raw ability would take Phelps only so far. He would need a plan; a roadmap for success. Now, for the first time, Bowman reveals the philosophy that governs his approach to coaching Phelps and all of the other Olympic-calibre athletes he coaches and provides a revealing look at what it takes to achieve greatness. His eleven-step process is divided into three sections: 1. Forward thinking: how to set your vision for success, adjust your attitude to fit with than vision, raise your risk tolerance and set the small goals that will lead you to your big dream. 2. Plotting a course: how to plan your strategy for the achievement of your vision, find the right support team, maintain your passion over the long haul and stay motivated in the face of challenges. 3. Time to perform: how to establish the right mindset and deal with last-minute stressors, complete the task and relish in the finished process, and prepare for what's next. Writing in an entertaining and enlightening style, Bowman makes the case that his eleven-step plan for success works just as well for someone seeking fulfilment outside of athletics - in the workplace, in the home, in everyday life - as it does for someone with Olympic aspirations. Bowman's roadmap for success rewards persistence and patience. But in the end, it's a path whose destination leads to satisfaction in a job well done. As such, The Golden Rules is essential reading for anyone who wishes to pursue their life's dream.