I love reading this poem. And with Arnold Palmer’s passing this year, it seems fitting to read it and remember a great athlete and successful businessman—who of course, went to Wake Forest. Because so many successful people do.
I hope reading it inspires you. Cheers to a New Year and a time to take your business to the next level!
Whether You Think You Can or Can’t You’re Probably Right
If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think that you dare not, you don’t;
If you’d like to win, but you think you can’t,
It’s almost certain you won’t.
If you think you’ll lose, you’ve lost;
For out in the world you’ll find
Success begins with a fellow’s will.
It’s all in the state of mind.
If you think you are outclassed, you are;
You’ve got to think high to rise;
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.
Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man;
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.
*A plaque has hung in my office for many years carrying the above selection of free verse. I am not aware of its origin, but consider it a pertinent guideline for one to pursue in life and toward specific goals as well. It has always provided an energizing thrust to my career in golf.
-Arnold Palmer, Professional Golfer
4-1, The Edge: The Guide to Fulfilling Dreams, Maximizing Success and Enjoying a Lifetime of Achievement, Howard E. Ferguson (This is one of my favorite books. So many great quotes and bits of inspiration.)