TLDR;
In this interview, Tim Grover, the renowned trainer of Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, shares his unique insights on achieving greatness and maintaining a relentless mindset. He discusses his journey, the qualities that define top performers, and the principles outlined in his book, "Relentless." Grover emphasizes the importance of mastering one's craft, the necessity of a strong mindset over skill set, and the critical role of resilience, intelligence, and competitiveness. He also touches on the concept of "cleaners," individuals who consistently deliver results and elevate those around them, and offers practical advice on cultivating a winning mentality.
- Tim Grover shares his journey from college basketball to training elite athletes like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.
- He introduces the concepts of "coolers," "closers," and "cleaners," explaining the differences in their performance and mindset.
- Grover highlights the 13 traits of "cleaners," emphasizing the importance of pushing oneself, maintaining clarity, and trusting instincts.
Introduction: Tim Grover's Background and Promise [0:00]
Tim Grover, Michael Jordan's trainer for 15 years, promises to share insights he has never revealed before. The discussion begins with Grover's background, including his college basketball career at the University of Illinois-Chicago. Despite recognizing his limitations as a player after being outperformed by a young Tim Hardaway, Grover decided to focus on helping athletes stay injury-free and reach their full potential by studying kinesiology and exercise physiology.
Early Career and the Drive to Train Professional Athletes [3:34]
Grover always aimed to work with professional athletes, dismissing the idea of becoming a gym teacher. He honed his craft by working with various clients at a local health club, including housewives and individuals recovering from injuries. This experience allowed him to refine his training programs and apply his knowledge effectively. Grover emphasizes that while there are more resources available now, the abundance of information can be overwhelming, making it crucial to discern reliable sources.
Choosing Clients and the Importance of Shared Intensity [6:01]
Grover explains that he selects clients who are as dedicated and "messed up" about achieving greatness as he is. He can quickly assess an individual's commitment by asking the right questions and observing if they back up their words with action. Grover believes that successful relationships, whether with clients or business partners, require a shared intensity and drive. He also notes that while it's important to surround oneself with smarter people, they should match your intensity and focus.
The Qualities of the Best: Dedication and Work Ethic [8:16]
According to Grover, the best athletes, like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, are intensely focused on being the best. They show up early, take extra shots, and prioritize their physical well-being. These individuals don't need motivation; they need to be told to rest. Grover illustrates this with an analogy: in a company of 4200 agents, only a few will consistently work beyond regular hours, demonstrating their exceptional dedication.
How Tim Grover Started Training Michael Jordan [10:08]
Grover shares the story of how he began working with Michael Jordan. He sent letters to all Chicago Bulls players except Jordan, assuming Jordan didn't need help. However, Jordan was the only one to respond, retrieving the letter from another player's locker and asking to meet Grover. After a thorough vetting process by the team's medical staff, Grover met with Jordan, outlined how he could help with his nagging injuries, and was given a 30-day trial, which turned into a 15-year partnership.
The Longevity of the Relationship and Mastering the Craft [14:41]
Grover emphasizes the importance of mastering one's craft and avoiding the tendency to jump from one thing to another. He highlights that Jordan and Bryant mastered specific aspects of their game before moving on to others. Grover also reveals that Jordan initially didn't want him training anyone else, a testament to the value he placed on their exclusive partnership.
The Three Levels: Cooler, Closer, and Cleaner [17:37]
Grover introduces three levels of performers: coolers, closers, and cleaners. Coolers are adequate, getting the job done as expected. Closers deliver exceptional results with a game plan and minimal variables. Cleaners consistently achieve results, elevate those around them, and maintain focus regardless of external factors. Cleaners don't bring personal issues to work, maintaining a clear separation between their personal and professional lives.
The 13 Traits of Cleaners: Pushing Limits and Maintaining Clarity [21:28]
Grover begins to the first few of the 13 traits that define cleaners, emphasizing that these traits can be learned. Cleaners push themselves harder, shut out distractions to maintain clarity, and trust their instincts. He illustrates this with a story of Michael Jordan overruling a coach's play call, trusting his instincts to win the game. Grover stresses that this instinct is developed through years of preparation and repetition.
Obligation to Self and Earning Greatness [24:20]
Grover continues discussing traits of cleaners, highlighting that their obligation to themselves must exceed anyone else's obligation to them. He uses Tom Brady as an example, noting that the pressure Brady puts on himself is greater than any external pressure. Grover dismisses the notion that everyone is born with greatness, asserting that greatness is earned through hard work and perseverance.
Trust, Distance, and the Importance of Truth [27:58]
Grover emphasizes that cleaners trust very few people and those they trust must never let them down. He explains that distance often becomes a cleaner's best friend, creating separation from competition and even personal relationships. Grover challenges the idea of surrounding oneself with only positive people, arguing that it's more important to have people who tell you the truth, even when it's difficult to hear.
The Necessity of Coolers, Closers, and Cleaners in Business [30:10]
Grover stresses the importance of having coolers, closers, and cleaners in any successful organization. He notes that individuals may exhibit different traits in different areas of their lives. Grover cautions against trying to force someone to be a cleaner if they are content being a cooler, as people have different obligations and priorities.
Failure, Talent, Intelligence, Competitiveness, and Resiliency [33:33]
Grover asserts that failure is only a failure if you decide it to be, emphasizing the importance of bouncing back and finding alternative ways to achieve goals. He highlights that the greats add something new to their game every year. Grover also identifies four key attributes: talent, intelligence, competitiveness, and resiliency, noting that all four are necessary for success.
Addiction to Results and the Myth of Working Smarter, Not Harder [40:26]
Grover discusses the importance of being addicted to results and constantly striving for more. He challenges the common saying, "work smarter, not harder," arguing that you must work both smarter and harder. Grover emphasizes that success magnifies who you really are, and it's crucial to surround yourself with people who educate you rather than just entertain you.
The Dark Side and the Importance of Being Feared [44:45]
Grover explains that everyone has a dark side, which fuels their desires and sets them apart. He uses the analogy of Batman and Superman, arguing that their alter egos are their true selves. Grover also states that it's better to be feared than liked, as competitors are feared and constantly strive for more.
Pressure, Problems, and the Emergency Button [48:34]
Grover asserts that everyone can handle pressure, but most people choose not to. He defines stress as pressure you won't deal with and advises addressing situations before they become problems. Grover also discusses the importance of having individuals who can handle emergencies, remaining calm and finding solutions when everyone else is panicking.
Competition, Softness, and the Need for Action [54:50]
Grover argues that people have become too soft and that there's too much emphasis on hugging and high-fiving without earning it. He stresses the importance of action and delivering results, noting that dreams must be brought to life or someone else will seize them. Grover also emphasizes the need to make decisions rather than just suggestions, and to be prepared to put out the fire you set.
Addiction to Results, Education, and Being Feared [58:15]
Grover reiterates the importance of being addicted to results and surrounding yourself with people who educate you. He emphasizes that it's better to be feared than liked, as fear drives competitors to constantly improve. Grover concludes by stating that you must add resistance to grow, just like muscles, and that your brain needs to be challenged and rebooted regularly.
The Relentless System: Why It's Worth It [1:02:51]
Grover explains why his Relentless System is worth the investment. He emphasizes that it's about developing the right mindset before acquiring exceptional skills. Grover shares that Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant weren't the greatest athletes he worked with, but their mindset set them apart. The Relentless System provides insights from the best of the best, gathered from Grover's unique experiences with elite athletes across various sports.
LeBron James: Cleaner or Not? [1:05:18]
Grover discusses whether LeBron James qualifies as a "cleaner." Initially, he didn't consider James a cleaner, but his return to Cleveland and subsequent championship win elevated him to that status. However, Grover notes that James needs to consistently elevate his teammates and instill fear in his opponents to solidify his place among the ultimate cleaners.
Top Five Draft Picks and the Importance of Adaptability [1:09:44]
Grover shares his top five all-time draft picks: Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Kobe Bryant, Isiah Thomas and Larry Bird. He emphasizes that these players would adapt and overcome any era or rule changes.
The Relentless System: Access and Discount [1:11:34]
Grover introduces his Relentless System, a collection of over 50 videos offering one-on-one time with him. The system provides insights into the competitive nature and thinking of elite athletes, applicable to various fields. Normally priced at $4,297, Grover offers a 40% discount to viewers who text "CLEANER" to 96000.
Investment in Mindset and a Parting Gift [1:15:50]
Grover emphasizes the importance of investing in one's mindset, drawing from James Harrison's annual $375,000 investment in his body. He encourages viewers to read his book, "Relentless," and to take advantage of the discount for the Relentless System. As a parting gift, Grover presents the interviewer with a Lakers championship ring from 2009, symbolizing their shared experience and connection.