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A Closer Look at Tom Brady’s Journey to Become an NFL Legend

Tom Brady is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history. With numerous records, accolades, and Super Bowl victories under his belt, Brady has solidified his status as a true legend of the game. However, his journey to greatness was not without its challenges and setbacks. In this article, we will take a closer look at Tom Brady’s remarkable journey and the key factors that have contributed to his success.

The Early Years: A Humble Beginning

Born on August 3, 1977, in San Mateo, California, Tom Brady’s passion for football was evident from a young age. Growing up in a sports-loving family, he idolized legendary quarterbacks like Joe Montana and Steve Young. Despite being overlooked by many college recruiters due to his lackluster high school performance, Brady remained determined to pursue his dream.

College Success: From Michigan to the NFL

Brady attended the University of Michigan where he had a successful college career under head coach Lloyd Carr. Despite being drafted by the Montreal Expos in the 18th round of the 1995 MLB Draft, Brady decided to focus on football instead. In his senior year at Michigan, he led the Wolverines to an Orange Bowl victory and showcased his leadership skills and ability to perform under pressure.

The New England Patriots Era: Building a Dynasty

In 2000, Tom Brady was selected by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the NFL Draft – a decision that would change both his life and the fate of an entire franchise. Initially serving as backup quarterback behind Drew Bledsoe, Brady got his chance when Bledsoe suffered an injury during the 2001 season.

From there on out, Tom Brady never looked back. He led the Patriots to their first Super Bowl victory against all odds and was named the game’s MVP. This marked the beginning of a dynasty that would dominate the NFL for years to come. With Brady at the helm, the Patriots won an astonishing six Super Bowl titles, solidifying their place as one of the most successful teams in NFL history.

The Mindset and Work Ethic: Keys to Success

While talent certainly played a role in Tom Brady’s success, his mindset and work ethic have been equally instrumental in shaping his legendary career. Known for his relentless preparation and attention to detail, Brady has consistently pushed himself to improve both physically and mentally.

Brady’s dedication to maintaining peak performance extends beyond the football field. He follows a strict diet and fitness regimen, prioritizes rest and recovery, and constantly seeks ways to fine-tune his skills. This unwavering commitment has allowed him to defy age and continue performing at an elite level even into his 40s.

In conclusion, Tom Brady’s journey from an overlooked high school player to an NFL legend is nothing short of remarkable. Through hard work, determination, and unwavering dedication, he has etched his name in football history as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Whether it be his early struggles or his ongoing pursuit of excellence, Brady’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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tom brady journey

The Early Years of Tom Brady: A Journey from Childhood Dreams to Football Greatness

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By espnplayers

Introduction: In the quaint neighborhood of San Mateo, California, a young boy named Tom Brady spent his early years dreaming big and setting the stage for an extraordinary journey. Little did the world know that this charming, determined child would one day become an iconic figure in the realm of American football. Let’s delve into the early life of Tom Brady, a legend in the making.

A Childhood of Dreams: Tom’s childhood was filled with laughter, love, and dreams. From a very young age, he displayed a passion for sports, eagerly engaging in soccer, baseball, and basketball. His supportive parents noticed his exceptional athletic abilities and encouraged him to explore his potential in various sports. Little did they know that football would soon become the centerpiece of their son’s ambitions.

Football and Friendship: One fateful day, Tom joined his local Pop Warner football team, igniting an undying love for the sport. It was on the gridiron where he found camaraderie, discipline, and a sense of belonging. With his incredible work ethic and dedication, he rapidly honed his skills, leading his team to numerous victories. Tom’s leadership abilities shone brightly even in those early days, earning him the respect and admiration of his teammates and coaches alike.

The High School Hero: As Tom transitioned into high school at Junípero Serra, his passion for football deepened. He dedicated countless hours to training, studying the game, and fine-tuning his skills. His hard work paid off when he became the starting quarterback for his high school team. Tom’s performances on the field captured the attention of college scouts, opening doors to a future he had always envisioned.

College Dreams and Triumphs: At the University of Michigan, Tom Brady faced challenges and setbacks, but his resilience and unwavering determination kept him going. Despite not being an immediate star, he patiently waited for his opportunity and seized it when it arrived. Tom’s college career showcased his potential, solidifying his status as a prospect for the NFL.

The NFL Draft: The year 2000 marked a turning point in Tom Brady’s life. Drafted by the New England Patriots in the sixth round, he entered the NFL with a chip on his shoulder and a burning desire to prove his worth. He knew he had the talent, and all he needed was a chance to shine.

The Rise of a Legend: Overcoming adversity and competing for the starting position, Tom Brady’s rise to stardom in the NFL was nothing short of remarkable. Under the guidance of Coach Bill Belichick, he demonstrated an unrivaled work ethic and unparalleled leadership, earning him the starting quarterback role. His commitment to excellence and ability to perform under pressure led the Patriots to multiple Super Bowl victories, etching his name in football history.

Legacy and Inspiration: Tom Brady’s journey from a little boy with big dreams to an NFL legend serves as an inspiration to millions worldwide. His unyielding determination, humility, and passion for the game set him apart from others. Off the field, he remains a devoted husband and father, emphasizing the importance of family and perseverance.

Conclusion: As we look back on Tom Brady’s early years, we see a young boy with a spark of greatness that ignited a fire within him. Through unwavering dedication and sheer willpower, he transformed himself into one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Tom Brady’s story is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and belief in oneself. From a childhood filled with playful dreams to a legacy carved in football lore, his journey continues to inspire generations to pursue their own aspirations, no matter how impossible they may seem.

Tom Brady! The Close-Knit Brady Family: A Tale of Love, Support, and Success

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Becoming the G.O.A.T.: The Tom Brady Story

Becoming the G.O.A.T.: The Tom Brady Story (2021)

Tom Brady is arguably the greatest quarterback of all time with stats that surpass even Peyton Manning, Joe Montana, and Dan Marino. With seven Super Bowl rings and a legendary 60-plus MPH r... Read all Tom Brady is arguably the greatest quarterback of all time with stats that surpass even Peyton Manning, Joe Montana, and Dan Marino. With seven Super Bowl rings and a legendary 60-plus MPH rocket arm, he is the GOAT. Learn the backstory of how this champion rose to the top from h... Read all Tom Brady is arguably the greatest quarterback of all time with stats that surpass even Peyton Manning, Joe Montana, and Dan Marino. With seven Super Bowl rings and a legendary 60-plus MPH rocket arm, he is the GOAT. Learn the backstory of how this champion rose to the top from his childhood friends, high school and college teammates, coaches, and fellow NFL players.

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The Unstoppable Legacy of Tom Brady: A Look at His Record-Breaking Career

  • November 3, 2023
  • Athlete , Motivation , NFL

Introduction: Tom Brady, the Iconic Football Legend

Tom Brady is a name that is synonymous with greatness in the world of football. With a 23-year career, Brady has solidified his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. From his early years as a young boy with dreams of playing in the NFL to his record-breaking accomplishments and Super Bowl triumphs, Brady’s journey to football greatness is nothing short of remarkable.

Early Years: Brady’s Journey to Football Greatness

Born on August 3, 1977, in San Mateo, California, Tom Brady grew up with a love for football. As a child, he idolized his hometown team, the San Francisco 49ers, and dreamed of one day playing in the NFL. Despite not being heavily recruited by college football programs, Brady was determined to pursue his dream. Brady’s college career at the University of Michigan was a turning point in his football journey. Initially serving as a backup quarterback, he eventually earned the starting position and led the Wolverines to an Orange Bowl victory in his final season. His success at Michigan caught the attention of NFL scouts and set the stage for what was to come. In the 2000 NFL Draft, Tom Brady was picked by the New England Patriots in the sixth round, 199th overall. Many considered him a long shot to succeed in the NFL due to his lack of elite physical attributes. However, Brady’s work ethic and determination would prove his doubters wrong.

The Rise of the New England Patriots: Brady’s Impact on the Team

Brady’s early years with the New England Patriots were marked by hard work and perseverance. Initially serving as a backup to veteran quarterback Drew Bledsoe, Brady seized the opportunity when Bledsoe went down with an injury in the 2001 season. From that moment on, Brady never looked back. Under Brady’s leadership, the Patriots experienced unprecedented success. He quickly established himself as a clutch player, leading the team to multiple playoff victories and Super Bowl appearances. In just his second season as a starter, Brady led the Patriots to their first Super Bowl win in franchise history, beating the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI.

Brady’s Record-Breaking Stats: A Look at His Unmatched Accomplishments

Throughout his career, Tom Brady has shattered numerous NFL records and achieved feats that no other quarterback has come close to matching. He holds the record for most career passing touchdowns, most career passing yards, and most career completions, among many others. Brady’s most impressive accomplishments are his five Super Bowl MVP awards. No other player in NFL history has won this prestigious award more than three times, let alone five. Brady’s ability to perform at an elite level on the biggest stage is a testament to his greatness and his unmatched work ethic.

The Brady-Belichick Dynasty: The Most Successful Partnership in NFL History

A major factor in Tom Brady’s success has been his partnership with head coach Bill Belichick. Together, they formed one of the most successful duos in NFL history. Belichick’s strategic genius combined with Brady’s on-field brilliance has resulted in unparalleled success for the New England Patriots. The Patriots’ 20-year stretch of dominance in the NFL can be attributed to the synergy between Brady and Belichick. Their ability to adapt to different opponents and make crucial adjustments during games has been a key factor in their sustained success. The duo has led the Patriots to nine Super Bowl appearances and six championships, solidifying their place as the most successful partnership in NFL history.

Brady’s Super Bowl Triumphs: A Recap of His Championship Wins

Tom Brady’s Super Bowl victories are the stuff of legends. From his first win in Super Bowl XXXVI to his most recent triumph in Super Bowl LV , each championship has its own unique story and memorable moments. In Super Bowl XXXVI, Brady led the Patriots to a thrilling victory over the heavily favored St. Louis Rams. With less than two minutes remaining in the game, Brady orchestrated a game-winning drive that culminated in a game-winning field goal by Adam Vinatieri. In short, this victory marked the beginning of the Patriots’ dynasty and solidified Brady’s status as a clutch performer.

Brady’s Leadership Style: How He Motivates His Teammates to Succeed

One of the defining characteristics of Tom Brady’s career has been his exceptional leadership skills. He has a unique ability to inspire and motivate his teammates, pushing them to perform at their best. Whether it’s through his work ethic, attention to detail, or unwavering belief in his teammates, Brady has a knack for bringing out the best in those around him. Brady leads by example both on and off the field. His teammates often speak of his relentless drive and his ability to elevate their performance through his leadership.

Brady’s Impact on the NFL: How He Changed the Game Forever

Tom Brady’s impact on the NFL extends far beyond his record-breaking stats and Super Bowl victories. His success has directly impacted the course of the quarterback position. Brady’s success as a pocket passer in an era increasingly dominated by mobile quarterbacks has challenged conventional wisdom about what it takes to be successful in the NFL. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver accurate passes set a new standard for quarterback play in the modern era.

Brady’s Legacy: How He Will Be Remembered in Football History

When it comes to discussing the greatest quarterbacks of all time, Tom Brady’s name is always part of the conversation. His record-breaking stats, Super Bowl victories, and impact on the game have solidified his place among the all-time greats. Brady’s legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. He has become a role model for aspiring athletes and a symbol of perseverance and determination. His story serves as a reminder that hard work and dedication can lead to greatness.

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Conclusion: Tom Brady, the Ultimate Football Legend

In conclusion, Tom Brady’s journey to football greatness is a testament to his unwavering determination and unmatched work ethic. From his early years as an upstart QB to his record-breaking accomplishments and Super Bowl triumphs, Brady’s legacy is insurmountable. His partnership with head coach Bill Belichick has resulted in unprecedented success for the New England Patriots. Together, they created one of the most dominant dynasties in NFL history. Brady’s leadership skills and ability to inspire his teammates have set him apart from his peers. As he continues to defy age and perform at an elite level, Tom Brady’s legacy in football is secure. He will forever be remembered as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game, leaving a lasting impact on the NFL and football as a whole.

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tom brady journey

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Tom Brady's incredible journey from being David to the ultimate Goliath

Yahoo Sports’ Dan Wetzel details Tom Brady’s incredible journey from high school benchwarmer to 7-time Super Bowl Champion.

Video Transcript

[AUDIO LOGO]

DAN WETZEL: It's a literally unbelievable career. And I'll go back. He said everything's about doubt. Tom Brady, as a freshman, on the freshman football team, Sierra High School in San Mateo, California, was the backup quarterback. He did not get into a single game, didn't play on his freshman football team. He was frustrated, worked hard, ended up being a Division I football recruit to go to Michigan.

At Michigan, he arrives as the seventh string quarterback, red shirts his first year. His next two years he plays, I believe, in four games in two years, wants to transfer. Boyd Carr says, you'll regret it for the rest of your life, not fighting and seeing what you can do if you take this competition, ends up, really, despite having to fight off Drew Henson and all that, having a really good career.

Like, it goes back to day one this guy's been doubted. I mean, how bad do you have to be to not get in a game on a freshman team? That's not like a borderline-- like, you're not good if you can't get in the game at a freshman football team. David became Goliath to the factor that no one can remember he was once David. It's impossible to even-- oh, yeah, he was kind of this gangly rookie, and he had that drive against the Rams. No one thought-- no, it goes farther back.

Like, if you play freshman football and you don't get in a game, you know what you do? You quit football. Everybody-- you say it's hard to relate to a pro athlete. Pretty much all of us can relate being so bad on some team somewhere in some sport that they were like, yeah, you're not even seeing the field. Everything in his life has been about proving whatever it is wrong, whether it's I can climb the depth chart. I can be a starter.

Yeah, my first year as a starter, as a backup turned starter, I can win the Super Bowl. Yeah, I can do this drive. I can have a perfect regular season. I can keep winning. I can 28 to 3-- you know, how about a how about a double digit comeback against Seattle in the Super Bowl that ranks as his third greatest comeback? Like, when you're ranking Tom Brady's Super Bowl comebacks, down 10 in the fourth quarter to Russell Wilson and the defending Super Bowl champs, is third.

Tom Brady tells his Super Bowl story in ESPN series

Tom Brady provides a firsthand account of his most iconic moments and the pivotal events that paved his journey in the new nine-episode series "'Man in the Arena: Tom Brady." (1:23)

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Tom Brady 's journey to each of his nine Super Bowls with the New England Patriots will be the subject of an ESPN series released next year.

Titled "The Man in the Arena: Tom Brady,'' the nine-episode series will include a look from Brady's perspective at the six NFL titles and three Super Bowl defeats he was a part of. It should be a rare opportunity for revelations from the usually private quarterback, who left New England this year after 20 seasons and now is with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers .

The series will be produced by ESPN, 199 Productions (Brady's production company) and Gotham Chopra of Religion of Sports.

"Through the series, we're defining the key moments and challenges that were seemingly insurmountable, but through hard work and perseverance, became career-defining triumphs, in both victory and defeat," Brady said.

Brady has won more Super Bowls than anyone else and remains an NFL star at age 42. Unlike Peyton Manning, his contemporary for much of his career and the quarterback he is most often compared to, Brady normally has been reticent to provide behind-the-scenes information.

Connor Schell, ESPN's executive vice president for content and one of the creators of the network's 30 for 30 series, thinks Brady has a fountain of memories worth telling.

"To have personal firsthand accounts and an athlete at Tom's level who doesn't often give firsthand accounts can add up to a remarkable series,'' Schell said.

Schell points to Chopra's storytelling skill as a key factor in making Brady's experiences compelling to fans -- even to the legions outside of the New England area who have generally despised the team.

"It is really a tribute to Gotham that he was able to earn that level of trust so Tom is willing to share his stories,'' Schell said, noting that Chopra brought the project to ESPN. "We love these projects where these elements come together, and we're able to give fans not just a good story but something they haven't seen before.''

The episodes are expected to be grounded in Brady's reflections and will include voices and outlooks other than his.

Schell added that ESPN is "thinking about how to evolve the genre and new ways to tell these stories and new hooks. And the access to Tom Brady is unique.''

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Questions swirl after multiple reports of Tom Brady retiring

By Fernando Alfonso III and Adrienne Vogt , CNN

Tom Brady’s father and his coach say the quarterback's decision isn’t finalized, per reports

From CNN's Kevin Dotson

Tom Brady looks to pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Raymond James Stadium on January 23, in Tampa, Florida.

As reports of Tom Brady’s retirement spread on Saturday, some close to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback have told media outlets that his future is still undecided.

Brady’s father Tom Brady Sr. told NFL Network’s Mike Giardi that the reports of Brady’s retirement are “total conjecture.”

“Tommy has not made a final decision one way or the other and anybody else that says that he has is absolutely wrong,” Giardi quoted Brady Sr. as saying.

ESPN first reported that Brady was retiring, citing unnamed sources. The Boston Globe reported that an NFL source confirmed the news.

Brady hasn’t told the Bucs about his retirement, according to multiple reports, and Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians also wasn’t ready to bid farewell to the seven-time Super Bowl champion.

ESPN’s Jenna Laine reported that when she asked if Brady has informed the team he’s retiring, Arians told her, “He hasn’t. Not even close to making up his mind yet. He told us.”

CNN has reached out to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Brady’s representatives and the NFL, but has not received a response to questions about the situation.

Tom Brady agent says "Tom will be the only person to express his plans," according to report

From CNN's Homero De la Fuente

Tom Brady reacts in the second quarter of the game against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Raymond James Stadium on January 23, in Tampa, Florida.

Tom Brady’s agent Don Yee released a statement on Saturday regarding news of Brady's retirement claims, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The statement, per Schefter, reads: “I understand the advance speculation about Tom’s future. Without getting into the accuracy or inaccuracy of what’s being reported, Tom will be the only person to express his plans with complete accuracy. He knows the realities of the football business and planning calendar as well as anybody, so that should be soon.”

Following the Bucs playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams this past Sunday, Brady thanked teammates, coaches and fans in an Instagram post amid retirement rumors.

“I understand that at this stage in my career, there is going to be interest in my future whenever a season ends, but this week, all that is on my mind is the gratitude I have for this team and the fans that have supported us all year long,” the seven-time Super Bowl champion said on Instagram.

Some context: The social media post followed an appearance with Jim Gray on Brady’s "Let’s Go!" podcast Monday as the two spoke about Brady’s intent to solicit his family’s opinions on whether the 44-year-old quarterback will return to play a 23rd NFL season in 2022.

“It’s not always what I want. It’s what we want as a family," Brady told Gray. “And I’m gonna spend a lot of time with them and figure out in the future what’s next.”

Brady’s full Instagram post can be found  here .

CNN’s David Close contributed to this report.

Tom Brady went from MAGA hat to mocking Trump's election lies

From CNN's Joe Ruiz

President Joe Biden laughs as quarterback Tom Brady jokes while speaking as the 2021 NFL Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers are welcomed to the South Lawn of the White House on July 20, 2021 in Washington, DC.

Tom Brady will technically retire as a champion considering this year’s Super Bowl is still weeks away, and while he only played seven games in his career against Washington’s football team (4-2 in the regular season, 1-0 in the playoffs), he was a player in Washington politics over the past few years. 

The 7-time Super Bowl winning quarterback and sure-fire hall of famer will retire after 22 seasons, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeff Darlington and The Boston Globe, citing unnamed sources.

His  friendship with former President Trump  thrust Brady into the Beltway spotlight during Trump’s first campaign for President, and his  joke last year over his friend’s 2020 election denial  brought laughter at Trump’s expense.

Brady was seen with  Trump’s iconic red MAGA hat  in his locker two months after Trump announced his candidacy, and Brady  appeared to endorse Trump  soon thereafter, only to later say  his words were taken out of context .

In 2017, after Trump won the presidency, Brady said his comments about NFL players protesting police brutality and inequality were “divisive” and that he disagreed with  Trump saying that players who were kneeling  should be fired. Earlier that year, Brady skipped out on visiting the White House for a celebration of his Super Bowl-winning New England Patriots, citing “personal family matters.” 

And last year, after Brady moved to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and helped them win the Super Bowl,  Brady mocked Trump’s lie  about winning the 2020 presidential election.

"Not a lot of people think that we could have won. In fact, I think about 40% of people still don't think we won. You understand that, Mr. President?" Brady said to the laughing crowd.

"I understand that," President Biden replied. 

And while Brady may no longer lead a 4th quarter comeback --  again  -- and be one of the NFL’s most polarizing stars, he could still be a political player. During a  2005 interview with CBS ’ “60 Minutes,” he said he had an interest in politics and would consider running for office in the future if he was still interested in it.

“If that chance does come up, and I'm still interested in it, I mean it would be something that I think I could do a decent job at,” he said. “When you think about things you like to do, you think about things that you could be good at, and that's one thing I think I could be good at. Whether I do it or not, I don't know. Who does?"

Brady's journey from 199th draft pick to record-breaking NFL quarterback

From CNN's Steve Almasy and Homero De la Fuente

Tom Brady holds the Vince Lombardi Trophy after leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl win in February 2021.

Selected by the Patriots with the 199th pick of the 2000 NFL Draft, Brady wasn't meant to be the starting quarterback; the Patriots already had three-time Pro Bowl selection Drew Bledsoe.

The Boston Herald reported Patriots Coach Bill Belichick said the team took Brady because he was the highest-rated player still available in the sixth round.

"He's a good, tough quarterback who played at a high level of competition,'' Patriots coach Bill Belichick said. "We'll put him out there with everyone else and let him compete and see what happens.''

After Brady had a good training camp and preseason, the Patriots made the rare move of keeping him as a fourth-string quarterback.

He moved up the depth chart and in the second game of Brady's second season Bledsoe suffered a severe injury when he was slammed to the ground.

When Brady took over, the Patriots were coming off a losing season and had struggled in two losses to open the 2001 season.

But the young quarterback led them to 11 wins in their last 14 regular-season games and on to Super Bowl XXXVI. There the Patriots beat the St. Louis Rams on a last-second field goal after Brady completed five passes on the game-winning drive. It was the first of five times he would be selected as most valuable player in the game.

The Patriots collected Vince Lombardi trophies in 2004, 2005, 2015, 2017 and 2019.

His best season might have been in 2007 when the Patriots went undefeated in the regular season as Brady threw for a then-record 50 touchdowns and completed a league-high 68.9% of his passes. But the New York Giants upset the Patriots in one of the most exciting Super Bowls ever.

Brady's last season was filled with gaudy numbers, too: 5,316 yards passing and 43 touchdowns. While Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers is the overwhelming favorite to win the MVP award, Brady is the likely runner-up. Whoever wins will be MVP for the fourth time in their career.

CNN's Ray Sanchez and Jack Bantock contributed to this report.

Former teammate says Brady "literally breathed football"

Donté Stallworth celebrates with Tom Brady during a game between the New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars, in 2008.

Donté Stallworth, a former NFL wide receiver who played on the New England Patriots with Tom Brady, said his former quarterback "literally breathed football."

Brady has decided to retire, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeff Darlington and The Boston Globe, citing unnamed sources.

"Obviously outside of family, there was nothing more important to him than being the best player that he could be. And he put himself in position to not only be that player but to also, you know, expand the other player's abilities, and you know, make other players better players and more calm," Stallworth told CNN.  

Stallworth praised Brady's ability to put his all into the game and his stamina to stay in the NFL for 22 seasons.

"Whenever Brady's got two minutes left or whatever it is and he's got the ball, 99% of the time, he's going to put his team in a position to win that game, and he did that. ... Multiple times on the biggest stage he did it regularly, consistently throughout the season in his career. And it's just a testament to how much that he loved the game for someone, especially in today's era, for someone to stay in the NFL as long as he did," he said.

Stallworth said he had an inkling that Brady would retire because of recent remarks he's made.

"When he began to speak about being satisfied during the season and thanking the fans in Tampa, I kind of knew. I didn't hear this from him personally, but knowing him, he didn't want a farewell tour. That's not who he is," he said.

NFL thanks Tom Brady in a tweet

The NFL tweeted its thanks to quarterback Tom Brady after reports that the legendary quarterback is retiring.

The league called him the "GOAT," which stands for "Greatest Of All Time," and included an illustration of him wearing his Super Bowl rings.

The NFL encouraged fans to use the hashtag #ThankYouTom to share their memories of Brady.

7-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady retiring after 22 NFL seasons

From CNN's Homero DeLaFuente

Tom Brady of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers waves to the crowd after defeating the New England Patriots on October 3, 2021 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Tom Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl winner who is considered one of the greatest NFL players of all time, has decided to retire, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeff Darlington and The Boston Globe, citing unnamed sources.

Brady just wrapped up his 22nd season in the NFL and second with the Bucs. On Jan. 23, when Tampa Bay, the defending Super Bowl champion, lost to the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Round, Brady said he would take the decision on his professional football future “day-by-day.” 

Brady is considered by many NFL observers to be the greatest quarterback of all time, having led the New England Patriots to six Super Bowl titles and the Bucs to one. No quarterback has thrown for more touchdowns, more yards or won more playoff games than Brady. He has also played in and won more regular-season games in his career than any other quarterback. 

More background: Brady is a 44-year-old father of three who has been married to supermodel Gisele Bündchen since 2009.

They have two children, a 12-year-old son and a 9-year-old daughter. Brady has a 14-year-old son from a prior relationship with actress Bridget Moynahan.  

Brady told the SiriusXM “Let's Go!” podcast Jan. 24 that Bündchen and his children would be at the heart of any choice he made. 

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The tom brady success story.

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Tom Brady is well known across the world these days, especially in the United States of America and among those who appreciate the rough and tumble sport of Football. Brady has managed to achieve numerous records and accolades in the sport over the past two decades. Achievements like having the most wins by a quarterback in NFL history, or the most touchdowns by a quarterback, and having won the most NFL championships. Indeed, these are just a few of the many accomplishments Tom Brady has managed to achieve during his sensational and long career. And, it’s why we aim to dive into how such a legend came to be in this Tom Brady Success Story special.

The aim of this page is to inspire as well as provide key insights about Tom Brady’s success. We believe success leaves clues, and that every high achieve leaves a blueprint that others can follow in the wake of their success. Thus, we want to provide you with a better understanding of how Tom Brady became the legend he is today, as well as a few insights you can leverage to help you win in business, work, and at life in general.

So, if you’re ready to start learning from Tom Brady’s inspiring success story, let’s get to it.

TOM BRADY SUCCESS STORY

Tom Brady Success Quote

Tom Brady was born in San Mateo, California, and was the youngest of three other siblings, all of which were his sisters. The young Brady grew up idolizing players like Steve Young, Dan Marino, and especially Joe Montana. However, he didn’t fall into the typical athletic path followed by most players who make it into the NFL. While most kids start to get groomed to become gods of the grid iron around the 3rd grade, Tom Brady wouldn’t start playing football until he was a freshman in high school.

Brady’s debut into football as a freshman was hardly special and certainly not noteworthy. In fact, Tom Brady was initially a bench warmer, but he eventually got his shot to play his Sophomore year when the starting quarterback for the JV team quit. And fortunately for Brady, that opportunity helped him segue into the starting Varsity QB role when his Junior year arrived.

After developing a passion for the sport, Tom Brady would commit to playing at the next level. As such, he honed in on marketing himself to scouts, and ensuring he stood out as a player worthy of consideration. Brady would eventually catch the eye of a handful of big name universities. But he eventually opted for Michigan University.

The Under Dog

Tom Brady’s decision to become a Michigan Wolverine didn’t automatically mean he would find success on the field. Nor did it mean it would happen overnight.

In fact, Brady came into the program as an underdog, with seven other quarterbacks ahead of him on the depth chart. To get his chance, Brady would have to put his aim to outshine each and every single one of them into overdrive. And with laser-like focus, he would do just that, earning himself the back-up slot by the time he was a Sophomore. But he hadn’t hit his mark just yet.

And similar to his high school days, Brady had to remain humble and patient as he waited for the perfect opportunity to seize his moment . That day would eventually come two long years after his arriving at Michigan. He would finally win the starting quarterback position for the Wolverines his Junior year. And the rest was history, as he went on to lead his team to two bowl games, that last of which they won over Alabama.

Underrated & Underestimated

During his final days of college, Tom Brady’s coach received only one call of interest from the NFL for his star quarterback. But, that didn’t deter Brady and his goal of playing football in the NFL. He set his sights on the NFL draft, and had high hopes of getting picked up early. But, Brady would be let down. Instead of getting chosen early like he felt he should have, it wasn’t until the 6th round as the 199th pick that he would eventually get to breathe a sigh of relief.

Tom Brady was underrated and underestimated. In fact his draft report from 2000 NFL draft noted the following qualities:

  • Poor Build | Skinny
  • Lacks Great Physical Stature and Strength
  • Lacks Mobility and Ability to Avoid The Rush
  • Lacks a Really Strong Arm
  • Can’t Drive The Ball Down Field
  • Doesn’t Throw a Really Tight Spiral
  • System-Type Player Who Can Get Exposed if Forced to Adlib
  • Gets Knocked Down Easily

There is no doubt that Brady wasn’t the highest rated, he wasn’t the best athlete, he didn’t have the best numbers, the best mechanics, but he did have the qualities that have proven to matter most: heart and determination . And Brady used both qualities to prove to all the NFL, and its fans, that he is and was the quarterback who should have been chosen first in that NFL draft. The draft was like a slap to the face for Brady, and he would take the experience to heart, using it to fuel his future achievements and prove his worth.

Absolute Proof

A since 2001, Tom Brady has been doing just that. During his second year with the New England Patriots, after the starting Drew Bledsoe was sidelined due to an injury, Brady took to the field, has since come off. And for the past 20 plus years, Brady has been stacking and collecting achievements and accolades like a kid collects comics.

For the past 20 years, Tom Brady has been providing to the world, absolute proof, that he is the best of the best when it comes to football. He has the evidence to prove it, and here it is:

  • Super Bowl Champion 7 Times Over
  • 5 Time Super Bowl MVP
  • 3 Time MVP of the NFL
  • 2 Time NFL All-Decade Team Player
  • Most Games Won By a Quarterback
  • Most Games Played By a Quarterback
  • Most Combined Passing Yards
  • Most Touchdown Passes
  • Most 4th Quarter Comebacks
  • Most NFL Championships
  • Best Touchdown to Interception Ratio
  • Only Player to Win a Super Bowl for Both The AFC + NFC

And the list can and does go on and on. Tom Brady has shown absolute proof of his greatness.

Related: Tom Brady Net Worth

Tom Brady’s Success Ethos

Tom Brady went from high school benchwarmer to underrated draft pick, to ultimately becoming one of the NFL’s most celebrated players. But how did he do this? How did Tom Brady become so successful?

Tom Brady Success Story Quote

Well, as mentioned earlier, Tom Brady didn’t have all the sought after qualities and attributes that the other quarterbacks had, but he had the qualities that mattered most. And his number one quality, was his determination to be the best quarterback. In short, he had will power .

And over the past two decades, through sheer will power and focused determination, Brady has managed to get better with every snap. He takes his role as a leader and the quarterback of his team very seriously, leading him to approach every day as another day to prove to himself, his coaches, and his doubters, that not only does he deserves to be on the field, but that he is the best person for the job.

In addition to this, Tom Brady has also revealed his success ethos in his own words. So, we’ve listed his most poignant quotes on success with a short summary on each:

“To me, football is so much about mental toughness, it’s digging deep, it’s doing whatever you need to do to help a team win and that comes in a lot of shapes and forms.”  – Tom Brady

The magic ingredient for success in life and in sports comes down to mental toughness and extra effort. Champions know it, and Tom Brady knows it.

“If you don’t play to win, don’t play at all.”  – Tom Brady

Competition has been underrated as of late, in fact many are trying to give it a bad rap these days. But they are mistaken. Because great accomplishments, championships, and victory over anything rarely comes to the person who isn’t striving to win. And much of Brady’s success comes down to purely wanting to win.

“I didn’t come in with the opportunity to play right away. I had to earn it.” – Tom Brady

Tom Brady’s humble realization that what he was after would not come easily, or be easily kept, allowed for him to put in the proper levels of preparation, and continued improvement to see him rise to the occasion time and time again.

“To me, what separates really good players from great players; execute well under pressure.” – Tom Brady

Lastly, Brady understands that winners, be they athletes in sports, generals and warriors on a battlefield, or executives within a business, win because they possess the poise and calmness of mind to respond effectively when pressed. And this is exactly what Tom Brady has managed to master; effective execution.

Related: Motivational Tom Brady Quotes

Final Thoughts

There you have it, the Tom Brady success story that highlights Brady’s journey of going from being a benchwarmer in high school, to overcoming the odds of a depth-chart that went seven levels deep to start in college, to being an underrated 6th round draft pick who would go on to become one of greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game of football. 

We’ve also uncovered the main driver behind Brady’s greatness, and the success ethos that has guided him to becoming the living legend we’ve all come to admire. And since there is power in repetition, and because repetition is the mother of learning and the architect of accomplishment, here is one last recap on Tom Brady’s recipe for success:

Mental Toughness | Will to Win | Staying Hungry  |  Effective Execution

Tom Brady Story Quote

Lastly, we hope you apply these insights to your own life. May they help you take on aspects of your life with the mindset of a champion , and help you be victorious like one. And remember, you don’t have to have the strongest indicators of what’s typical of an athlete, professional, or entrepreneur to be successful, because numbers aren’t everything, but heart is.

Till next time,

PS  – If you enjoyed our Tom Brady Success Story, then you’ll certainly enjoy learning from other G.O.A.T.s like  Khabib Nurmagomedov , Cristiano Ronaldo , and some of our other popular success stories .

THE TYLER PERRY SUCCESS STORY

THE ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER SUCCESS STORY

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The STRIVE is on a mission to inspire and uplift 1 billion people by 2032. Our primary aim is to help as many people as possible believe in the uncommon thought, that they can be more than they are, do more than they've done, and achieve more prosperity than they've ever dreamed possible. Let's achieve the impossible together.

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THE ELON MUSK SUCCESS STORY

Elon Musk Success Story

Elon Musk is the billionaire entrepreneur responsible for co-founding various vanguard companies like Tesla, SolarCity, SpaceX, and PayPal.  He also helped influence the character behind Marvel’s modern take on Tony Stark. And has been compared to uber-successful business visionaries like Steve Jobs and Henry Ford.  And without a doubt, Elon Musk has already accomplished enough to be considered among some of the greats .  So, considering all the impressive accomplishments of this visionary entrepreneur, we will be diving into how such a legend came to be in this Elon Musk Success Story special.

“I Think It Is Possible For Ordinary People To Choose To Be Extraordinary.”

Just like Elon, we too believe that ordinary people can choose to become extraordinary. Which is why we decided to research and publish this success story of Elon Musk.  As such, the aim of this page is to reveal key insights about Elon that will provide you with a better understanding of how he became so successful. And maybe, just maybe you’ll become inspired to do the same.  So, if you’re ready to start learning from Elon’s success story, let’s dive in.

ELON MUSK’S SUCCESS STORY

elon musk success story essay

Elon was born in South Africa back in 1971 to a father who was an engineer and a mother who was a nutritionist.  Growing up, Elon spent most of his time reading and tinkering with projects when not in school and when his Nany was not watching him. Which according to an interview he did with Rolling Stone [ 1 ] , it was not often. 

So, at an early age, Elon became fond of Isaac Asimov’s books, which would eventually inspire his futurism. And it was his interest in the future, and his penchant for engineering that his engineer father helped cultivate, along with his eye for design, that would set him up for some grand future achievements.

After attending University for just five months in South Africa, Elon decided to move to Canada to attend Queen’s University.  But he didn’t finish his schooling there. In fact, after just two years, he transferred to the University of Pennsylvania to finish his schooling.   But getting through college wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows.  Elon had to strive to make his way through.

Elon financed his college education through a combination of scholarships, getting loans, and having to work two different jobs at the same time.  Fortunately, his sacrifice would eventually pay off, earning himself a degree in Economics and another in Physics. 

After these two educational accomplishments, Elon then went on to get into Stanford’s Ph.D. program. But, just after two days into the program he dropped out to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams.

Related: Elon Musk’s Net Worth

Elon’s initial start-up was an internet company that he, his brother, and a friend went all in on.  The company took some time to get off the ground, and in the interim, Elon would struggle financially.  Things got so bad for Elon at one point, that the only bed he could afford was the couch in their start-up’s office, and the shower and restroom facilities at his local YMCA. 

Despite the low times of this endeavor however, they would eventually find angel investors who backed the company, and clients within the city, and various big name news publishing companies like the New York Times and the Chicago Tribune who saw promise in the company and its useful city guide mapping software. 

Elon Musk Success Story Quote on Purpose

From this point, it was only a matter of time before Elon and company, were able to sell the start-up to Compaq for $307 million. [ 2 ]

The Next Venture

After selling the company, Elon earned a $22 million dollar windfall, and would go on to invest the bulk of that money into his next venture, which was a financial services company he co-founded called X.com.  His luck would improve shortly after starting this new venture as they merged with the company that serviced PayPal.com.  And just three years after starting up X.com, merging it with PayPal.com, they would sell it off to eBay for $1.5 billion.

The Big Gamble

With the acquisition of PayPal.com, Elon’s net worth would grow to be $123 million.  Now, at this point Elon could’ve retired early and rode off into to the sunset and lived happily ever after.  But that’s not how legends are made.  Instead, Elon would take a huge gamble and invest most if he newfound millions into two separate companies.  One of them was Tesla Motors, a fledgling automaker focused on electric transportation, and the other was SpaceX, a companied hellbent on commercial space exploration. 

Where most people would leave, Elon leaned in.  He poured his money, blood, sweat, and tears into making both companies a success.  And his passion for design, engineering, and the future would have him succeed on both fronts.

Tesla, is now one of the most valuable companies in the world valued at nearly half a trillion dollars ($554 billion) [ 3 ] , and SpaceX has made progress as well with a recent valuation near $175 billion.

Elon’s big gamble seems to be paying off.

Elon’s Enduring Success

Elon Musk’s success continues to grow as he endlessly pushes the envelope with Tesla, SpaceX, his acquisition of Twitter (now known as X), and the handful of other vanguard companies he has invested in and co-founded along the way.  

So, what’s the success secret to Elon’s enduring success?  Well, it must be said, that Elon does has above average intelligence, which has played a large role in his achievements. However, despite his intelligence, Elon excels because of an extreme ambition that is driven by his passion, and ambition that is backed up by an insane work ethic.

Related: Work Ethic and Success

Success Ethos

In addition to this, Elon focuses most of his energy on activities and ventures that actually matter.  He has made it known through commencement speeches and interviews that he does not waste time on things that don’t matter.  He says it best with this quote…

“Focus on signal over noise.  Don’t waste time on stuff that doesn’t actually make things better.”

Equally as important, is that Elon does not do things for the money.  In fact, he has blatantly stated that money doesn’t matter to him.  All he cares about is accomplishing his main objectives and missions in life.   So, what helps Elon succeed is his commitment to execution and the superhuman work ethic employs to make things happen.  He sums up his work ethic very will with the following quote…

“Work like hell. I mean you just have to put in 80 to 100 hour weeks every week. This improves the odds of success. If other people are putting in 40 hour workweeks and you’re putting in 100 hour workweeks, then even if you’re doing the same thing, you know that you will achieve in four months what it takes them a year to achieve.”

Lastly, the key aspect that has helped Elon find so much success has been his willingness to take risks.  In fact, his whole career has been a series of taking one big risk after another.  Indeed, his fearless approach to turning his ideas into reality, and the fearless action he took to execute on those ideas is key in much of Elon’s success.  He encapsulates this fearless attitude best when he said…

“When something is important enough, you do it even if the odds are not in your favor.”

Peer Into The Mind of a Visionary

To get a better look into the way of thinking that has driven Elon’s futurist pursuits, consider studying his quotes. This list of Elon Musk quotes is a great place to start.

In addition, you can also watch some of the amazing videos others have created about him, like the one below:

Video Credit: Chispa Motivation (Be Sure to Subscribe to Their Channel )

Key Takeaways

Elon Musk’s achievements and life journey in general has a lot to teach us. There’s no doubt that he is a maverick who is willing to do what most won’t, which is part and parcel of his extraordinary achievements.

That said, we hope our Elon Musk success story has convinced you that becoming a billionaire entrepreneur is possible. Elon’s inspiring story should help you realize that you can also get on track for massive success.

But more importantly, it should help you realize that your success can especially be found if you back up your ambitious purpose , with drive, passion, an iron-clad work ethic, and a fearless zeal for executing on those ideas.

So, follow these key takeaways and watch how the sky truly becomes the limit for you, like it has for Elon Musk.

Till you reach your aims,

PS – If you enjoyed our Elon Musk Success Story, then you may also enjoy our account of the late, but equally inspiring visionary Steve Jobs , or fellow billionaire Bernard Arnault .

TOP 17 INSPIRATIONAL SUCCESS STORIES TO KEEP YOU STRIVING FOR YOUR DREAMS

Best Success Stories

There’s nothing like a good success story to lift our spirits.  There’s something uniquely powerful about knowing someone else has experienced setbacks and serious hardships similar to our own, and yet still managed to come out on top. 

Success stories are invigorating, and a great one can provide us with a renewed hope, that despite things feeling unimaginably hard and seemingly hopeless, we can still achieve our dreams.  So, here are the most inspirational success stories we’ve ever studied.

Use them to reenergize and inspire yourself to believe that you too can achieve success and your dreams, if you’ll but press on like they did.  Enjoy!

INSPIRING SUCCESS STORIES TO HELP YOU SUCCEED

inspirational success stories

1. Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone has one of the most inspiring success stories. Before he made it big he was essentially a starving artist. For many years during and after his college years, he worked odd jobs to pay the bills. And he would do so while simultaneously taking on any acting roles he could find to keep his dreams of becoming a successful actor alive.

It was a struggle that Stallone would endure for many years, seven in fact. Throughout all of those seven challenging years, he would gain a few small roles in a handful of movies. But, none of them were grand enough to get his career launched.

During those seven long years of striving, he came face-to-face with near poverty. Stallone was so desperate for money at one point, he had to sell his wife’s jewelry. He even had to sell his dog because he couldn’t keep him fed. Things got so bad for Stallone that he even had to endure homelessness for a short period of time.

But, his days of struggle as an aspiring actor would not last forever. After facing seemingly insurmountable odds for over seven years, he would finally get his big break. And this break would come after he managed to get a script he wrote in a three day flurry of inspiration, in front of two big-shot directors in Hollywood.

It was this defining moment that would turn the tide for Sylvester Stallone. His career would skyrocket after he negotiated the lead role in the film that would come to be known as ‘Rocky’.

Success eventually comes to those who always dream of her. For a more complete account of Sylvester Stallone’s inspiring success story, you can find it here .

sylvester stallone success stories quote

2. Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey’s success story is very unique. From a very early age she experienced a level of adversity and poverty that most people would struggle to overcome. She was born into poverty and a broken home in rural Mississippi. Her parents who were just 18 and 19 when they had her, split soon after she was born. This lead to her being taking in by her grand mother.

And her grandmother was not your typical warm and fuzzy grandmother. No, she was a hard-nosed grandmother who was an extreme disciplinarian who discipline her for even the slightest offenses. But, the poverty and disciplined lifestyle didn’t last forever as she moved back with mother at the age of six.

Oprah would then experience sexual assault at an early age, having been molested as early as 9 by some of her family members. Having been emotionally abandoned, abused, and molested, she eventually started part-taking in extremely risky behaviors. Behaviors which eventually led to her becoming pregnant at the age of 14.

Then, because she got pregnant her mother kicked her out of the house. Oprah would go on to live with her father, only to then lose the baby a week after he was born.

Needless to say, Oprah’s early life was chockfull of struggle, adversity, and tragedy. But, regardless of all of her unfortunate experiences, she decided to turn her life around after she lost her baby. So, she committed herself to getting an education, becoming her best, and to going after her dreams.

She decided to start trusting herself again, and loving herself, and making choices that would improve her life versus destroy it. One day, she garnered enough confidence to participate in a beauty pageant. And it was her participation in this pageant that would eventually lead her into a job working for a radio station doing the news.

Oprah’s love for speaking to an audience set the stage for continued success as she would go on to become a news anchor, which she would eventually leverage to host a TV chat show in Maryland, which ultimately led to her having her morning talk show in Chicago.

And as they say, the rest was history. Oprah overcame massive challenges in her youth. Challenges that side line all too many people. She chose to turn her wounds into wisdom, and went on to become one of the most successful talk show hosts in history (by helping many others do the same) with her own self-named talk show, The Oprah Winfrey show. Oprah is now one of the richest self-made women in America.

success stories - oprah winfrey

3. Arnold Schwarzenegger

Considering Arnold Schwarzenegger is the epitome of the self-made man, we wouldn’t dare exclude him from our success stories collection. Arnold was born and raised in Austria. He grew up at a time where the country was still healing from it’s defeat in World War II.

Alcoholism was rampant, defeatism was the norm, and big dreaming scoffed at in his environment. The odds were certainly stacked against young Arnold.

But Arnold didn’t care. He knew he didn’t want to live the traditional Austrian life his parents wanted for him. He also knew he wanted to move to America because it was the land of the free.

As such, he hatched a plan to become a success in body-building. Then to leverage that success to get into movies. And sure enough he did just that. He went on to fulfill his vision by becoming the youngest man to ever win a Mr. Universe competition, and then on to win five Mr. Universe titles and seven Mr. Olympia titles.

After reaching what he set out to do in the sport of bodybuilding, he then went on to commit himself to the acting career he had always dreamed of. And sure enough, he would go on to conquer the film industry to the same degree that he conquered the body building world. Going on to star in multiple blockbuster movies that would gross over $3 billion, and earn him one of the most sizeable net worth’s in Hollywood.

You can find a more complete account of Arnold’s inspiring journey here: Arnold Schwarzenegger Success Story .

Success Stories Arnold Quote

4. JK Rowling

J.K Rowling had a dream of becoming a writer early on. But, she would have to persist for many years before her dream of becoming a published author would materialize. Almost as soon as she decided to get to work on putting her ideas down on paper for her book, she would be sidetracked by her mother’s death.

The depression that would ensue left Rowling seeking out a job as a teacher in another country. Soon after, she married and had a child, which would delay her aspirations even further.

But things weren’t done going off the rails for Rowling, as her marriage would abruptly end just one year after it began. This lead to her being jobless with a child, and a barely surviving off of unemployment benefits.

However, despite her challenges, Rowling would persist in the creation of her book. And she did so by seizing every spare moment she could while her child slept to write. Until finally the day came when she completed her manuscript.

Of course, even after Rowling finished her manuscript obstacles still remained. 12 different publishers rejected her novel. The rejection took a toll on her spirits, and she almost quit. Fortunately, she tried one more time. And it was at that moment, that J.K. Rowling’s luck turned around. She finally found a publisher would accepted her manuscript.

Now, J.K. Rowling is now one of the best selling authors of all time. She is also the highest paid novelist in the world. Her books have been translated into over 80 different languages with over 600 million sold. Clearly, persistence and patience pays off in the long run.

success stories - jk rowling quote

5. Steven Spielberg

Most people don’t know this, but Steven Spielberg was rejected from film school three times. But he didn’t let those rejections stop him, and he kept applying till he got accepted.  Eventually Cal State, Long Beach would accept him into their film program. 

Fortunately for Spielberg, he would then go on to leverage his opportunity at Cal State to land an unpaid internship at Universal Studios. 

Of course, this internship wouldn’t last forever, but it lasted just long enough for him to learn how sneak in to the studios undetected so he could continually gather intel on what it would take to become successful in the business. 

Finally, the day would come that he managed to get a film he created in the hands of film executives. But, he had to first overcome the film executives multiple attempts to make him give up.

After being told that the film size was not the right size multiple times, and remaking the entire demo to the recommended sizes every time, the executives finally relented and gave him his film a shot. The movie would go on to win major awards, and solidified Steven Spielberg’s place within the industry.

Steven Spielberg is now one of the most influential film makers in history. On top of this, he’s now also one of the wealthiest. And out of all of our inspirational stories of success, his story in particular, shows, that if you knock long enough and hard enough, the doors of opportunity will eventually swing open for you.

Related: 5 Steps to Start Living Your Dreams

Success Stories - spielberg

6. Mary Kay Ash

Mary Kay Ash has a truly inspiring success story. She was born in a small town in Texas and got married and started a family at the young age of 17. She would go on to have three children with her husband who was in the military, but they eventually got a divorce.

Mary Kay would struggle for years to take care of her children on her own. But she took on various sales jobs in the direct selling industry, and strived to climb the corporate ranks.

However, after many years of selling various products, along with a few middle management and trainer roles, she started to feel like she was being overlooked for the more prominent leadership roles she aspired to because she was a woman. As such, she eventually decided to take matters into her own hands.

Once her kids were out of the house and on their own, at the age of 45 Mary Kay Ash decided to become her own boss. So, she started her own cosmetic company. She started off very small, but in just a few short years, she manage to transform Mary Kay Cosmetics into a multi-billion dollar corporation that still serves and empowers people all over the world to this day.

Despite being past what most people consider their prime, Mary Kay went on to author multiple best-selling books like  The Mary Kay Way ,  Miracles Happen ,  You Can Have It All , as well as a few others, and she became an inspiration to countless women. And due to the success of her business and her aim to inspire as many people as possible, she became a multi-millionaire and eventually named as ‘The Greatest Woman In American History’.

inspirational success stories - mary kay ash

7. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo grew up in a household that was barely getting by. As a child, he had to share a room with three of his siblings due to their meager financial situation. There were even times where they didn’t have enough money to buy a soccer ball just so he could play in the streets. But Ronaldo did not let his environment dictate his destiny.

No, instead he would find ways to play the sport he loved even without the ball. He would use bottles, rags, or pretty much anything he could find to make a makeshift ball just so he could play. 

Eventually, Cristiano would get so good at soccer, that he would have to make the ultimate sacrifice at the age of 11 to move over 500 miles away from his family to train with a prestigious soccer academy. It’s a good thing he did too, because by doing so, he put himself on track to eventually become on of the best players in history.

Cristiano Ronaldo is now known as the greatest Portuguese player of all time by the Portuguese Football federation.  Millions of soccer fans all across the globe believe him to be the greatest of all time. 

In addition to this, he is the first soccer player ever to earn over $1 billion dollars, while generating one of the largest net worth’s among professional athletes.  

If you’re looking to learn more about Cristiano’s inspiring success story, you’ll love this .

success story quote

8. Lionel Messi

While on the topic of soccer, we must also mention Lionel Messi’s success story because it’s every bit as inspiring.  Here’s why, at age of 11, Messi was cut from his soccer team because they thought he was too small.  And he was small, but it was because he had a growth hormone deficiency which made him a lot smaller than all the other kids his age.

Fortunately, Messi didn’t let this deter him.  Instead, he would place himself on a strict regimen where he would inject growth hormones into himself.  And he would go on to do inject himself with this hormone for seven days in one leg, and then seven days in the other.

Messi would keep this routine up for six years.

The great news is, Messi’s sacrifice and persistence paid off.  Because now, he is one of the highest paid soccer players with a staggering net worth, and is considered by legions of fans to be one of the best soccer players of all time due to his winning soccer’s highest achievement, ‘The Ballon d’Or’ six times.

Success requires sacrifice.

success story quote - messi

9. Michael Jordan

Since we mentioned the greatest of all time in soccer, we can’t leave out the man many consider to be the greatest of all time in basket ball. Now, most people aren’t’ aware of this, but when Michael Jordan was merely a sophomore in high school, he already had big dreams of being a great basketball player. 

So he did something brash and tried out for the Varsity team. But, his coaches cut him from the team. They didn’t see his value nor did they think he was ready.

This rejection hit Jordan especially hard because of his oversized dreams and expectations. In fact, the rejection hit him so hard he went home afterwards and cried in his closet.

Even though that rejection still bothered Jordan, he dusted himself off and went all in for the JV team.  He trained like no other in the off season and grew four extra inches. And the following year he tried out for the varsity team again. But this second time around, he made it.

Not only did he make it, but he went on to become the team’s MVP, making the All-American Team, and eventually earned himself a college scholarship. And from there, well, you know the rest of the story.

Michael Jordan became the man who would score 32,292 points in a basketball career. Jordan became the man who acquired 6 NBA championships. The man who also collected 5 MVP titles, and is now considered the greatest basketball player of all time.

For all the success stories we’ve covered, this one clearly shows the importance of having great expectations, and resilience after rejection.

success stories quote by michael jordan

10. Paulo Coelho

Over 30 years ago a book titled ‘The Alchemist’ was published and hardly anyone noticed. The author of this book was a man named Paulo Coelho , and he was told by the first bookseller to carry his book, that only one person bought a copy after it was released.  As bad as it was to hear about the grim results Coelho remained confident in his work. 

Paulo Coelho waited for better results to appear. Unfortunately, six months passed before he sold his next copy.  Oddly, the person who bought his first book was the same person who bought the second.

After that first year the publisher decided the book was a flop and ended Coelho’s contract.  Fortunately, though, Coelho shrugged off that initial defeat.  He made up his mind to not give in, and so he doubled down to pursue his vision with even more fervor by finding another publisher. 

“Now, Coelho found a new publisher, but it was no easy task, as he encountered rejection after rejection.  But, after many repeated rejections, he finally landed that new publisher, and with it, another opportunity to capture his dream.

From that point forward Coelho’s dreams started to come true.  At first, he only sold three thousand books.  But the sales kept trickling in. And as time went by, he would sell ten thousand, and then 100 thousand, and so on and so forth. 

Coelho’s luck has yet to run out, as his books sales continue to grow year over year, with now over 150 million and counting copies of ‘The Alchemist’ having been sold. Even more staggering is the fact that he sold over 320 million books when including all of his other works. But, it all started with that first book!

Paulo Coelho’s success story shows that if you truly want something bad enough, all the universe really will conspire to help you achieve the impossible .

tom brady journey

11. Abraham Lincoln

Most of us know of this great man because of what he did for those who were in bondage in the United States of America. He delivered the Emancipation Proclamation; a massive accomplishment which ultimately led to the abolition of slavery.

But, what most don’t realize about Abraham Lincoln , is that he has one of the most impressive rap sheets when it comes to overcoming defeat.

In short, his success story consists of a list of failures and set backs so sizable, that you would hardly think it belonged to one of the most accomplished and respected presidents of the United States of America.

Here’s a great example of the many failures Lincoln endured, with a few victories he managed to sprinkle in over his lifetime:

1832: Lost his job

1832: Defeated for legislature

1833: Failed in business

1834: Elected to legislature

1835: The woman he loved died

1836: Had a nervous breakdown

1838: Defeated for Speaker

1843: Defeated for nomination for Congress

1848: Lost re-nomination

1849: Reject for Land Officer

1854: Defeated for Senate

1856: Defeated for nomination for Vice-President

1858: Again defeated for Senate

1860: Elected for President of The United States of America

To be sure, Lincoln virtually failed his way to success, and his recorded failures helps us realize the truth behind the Michael Jordan quote we mentioned earlier, and that is…that the key to success is through failure.

Out of all of these success stories, this one in particular should convince you that just because you’ve yet to succeed in life, it doesn’t mean you never will. So, keep pushing and preparing for your big day, because it will come, so long as you keep eye on the prize and keep moving forward .

Real Life Inspirational Stories of Success - Abe Lincoln

Related: Success Quotes for Overcoming Failure

12. Tom Brady

One of our favorite inspirational stories of success comes from Tom Brady . Brady didn’t follow the typical athletic path into the NFL. While most athletes begin getting groomed for the sport by the 3rd grade, Tom Brady wouldn’t set foot onto the grid iron until the 9th grade.

In fact, his debut into actually getting onto the football field didn’t come until his Sophomore year. His moment came when the starting quarterback for the JV team quit. Fortunately for Brady, that opportunity helped him capture the starting Varsity QB role by the time his Junior year arrived.

After finding success at the high school level, Brady would eventually go on to become a Michigan Wolverine. But success wasn’t a given for Brady at this level. Nope, he had to earn it.

In fact, Brady came into the program as an underdog, with seven quarterbacks ahead of him on the depth chart. After almost requesting a transfer to another school, Brady’s determination eventually won him the coveted starting position by the time he was a Junior.

The obstacles Brady would face continued on even into the Pros. Brady had his mind set to play in the pros, unfortunately there was little interest in him during the draft. In fact, he was selected in the 6th round as the 199th pick, just barely making it into the league.

Pretty much every coach in the league grossly underrated and underestimated Brady. His draft report from 2000 NFL draft actually stated the following qualities:

  • Can’t Drive The Ball Down Field
  • Doesn’t Throw a Really Tight Spiral
  • Easily Knocked Down

Remember, Tom brady was not the highest rated quarterback, he wasn’t the most well groomed for the sport, nor was he the best athlete. In addition, he didn’t have the best numbers, or even the best mechanics. However, Tom Brady did have the most heart and determination.

Thus, through sheer willpower, he pushed himself to becoming one of the greatest football players of all times. And he has proved his case with the following accolades:

  • Most NFL Championships By a Player (7x)
  • Only Player to Win a Super Bowl for Both The AFC & NFC

tom brady journey

13. Sarah Blakely

This success story is about Sarah Blakely, who was once crowned one of the youngest self-made billionaires by Forbes. Her story begins with her love of the firm look that panty hose offered, but her hating how they looked when she wore open toe shoes.

Blakely’s annoyance with panty hose would lead to her always cutting the feet off of her panty hose to pull of the look she was going for. But, after noticing that many other women were doing the same thing, she had a lightbulb moment. And she started to contemplate the creation of a product that would solve this problem.

One day after watching an inspiring Oprah show, Sarah decided to take massive action on her idea. So, she risked it all by investing her entire $5,000 life savings to move to Atlanta, GA. Once there, she would kickstart the production of her product idea for the masses.

Blakely experienced tons of resistance at first. Nobody wanted to manufacture the product she was trying to create. They thought it was too risky and a potential waste of time. Her patent officer even found it difficult to take her idea seriously, thinking it to be a dud.

But, after two years of planning, countless late nights, and lots of no’s, she finally found success. Her lucky break came when a factory agreed to manufacture her products. And when Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales took a risk on her by listing her products for sale at their stores.

Her first year in business she sold over $4 million in revenue. And every year there after her sales would grow exponentially. Sarah’s courage to go all in, and her persistence to bring her idea to the world helped her become a billionaire by the age of 41.

tom brady journey

14. Grant Cardone

This next story helps drive the point home, that it’s never too late to be what you might have been. It’s also a good reminder that no matter where you come from, or where you’ve been, you can change. It’s a testament that anyone can clean up their act, and can find massive success in the process.

This success story is about a man who grew up poor in Louisiana, lost his father at a young age, and was raised a single-parent household with four other siblings. It’s a story about a man named Grant Cardone .

Cardone is not your typical celebrity. He didn’t come from money. He’s not a Hollywood superstar,. Nor does he possess some amazing talent, like script-writing, politics, or athleticism. However, what he does possess, is something that is available to us all, and that is a determination to succeed.

Grant Cardone found himself in bad company in his youth. He was involved and addicted to drugs, and was stuck in a downward spiral for over a decade. After getting robbed at gunpoint, being beaten to a bloody pulp with a gun, and then being kicked out of his mother’s house, he finally decided to change his life.

At the age of 25 Grant Cardone decided to clean up his act. He cut all negative influences from his life, got sober, and took the first job he could land.

That job was as a car salesmen. It was a title and a position that Grant was not very fond of.

The economy was slow which meant he didn’t have many options, so he made it work.

Cardone committed to becoming the best salesperson he could be. So, he invested heavily in his own self-improvement by reading books and studying his craft and his industry.

After committing to becoming his very best, his income quickly doubled. And soon thereafter, he would become one of the best car salesmen in the country. He eventually moved on to running his own business, and was extremely smart and disciplined with his money.

Cardone only spent money on what was absolutely necessary for food our housing. He would place anything left over into an investment fund just for real estate.

Grant Cardone’s focus on learning more so that he could earn more, along with having the discipline to invest his extra money, instead of wasting it on frivolous things, helped him become a self-made millionaire just five years later by the age of 30.

Cardone has since gone on to become a prominent international businessman, speaker, and the owner of Cardone Capital, a $1.5 billion investment firm.  He’s authored the New York Times bestselling books  If You’re Not First, You’re Last,  and other notable books like  The 10X Rule , and Axiom Award winning  Sell or Be Sold .  In addition to this, he also founded Cardone University, a popular sales training platform that has accrued over 50,000,000 and growing users.

It took Grant Cardone only five years to completely revolutionize his entire life. With the right mindset and a good dose of willpower, just imagine what 5 years could do for you.

inspirational success stories - grant cardone

15. Kevin Hart

Every body knows of and loves Kevin Hart. He’s been making us laugh and keeping us highly entertained for many years now. But, what most people don’t know about Kevin Hart, is that he had to overcome some major obstacles before he became one of the most beloved comedians in the world.

Hart had to overcome a negative homelife with a father who was reckless, toxic, and always causing trouble. He had to overcome the challenges of a 2 hour commute for years.

Hart endured naysayers often. In fact, someone he highly respected in the industry told him that he should quit comedy. He had to outlast the boos, the heckling, and getting chicken wings thrown at him due to his performances.

Kevin Hart had to turn countless setbacks into comebacks. He had to choose time after time, to not quit. He chose to keep pushing for his dreams, to ignore the critics, the naysayers, and anyone who doubted his dreams.

Eventually though, Hart’s persistence and commitment to his vision would pay off. The tide would turn for Kevin Hart after years of career stagnancy, rejection, and close calls with defeat.

Kevin Hart is now one of the world’s top 10 comedians. He’s also one of the richest too . So, if you think you can’t do something, just think about Kevin Hart’s success story and all he went through. Because if he can do it, so can you.

tom brady journey

16. Tony Robbins

Tony Robbins’ upbringing was rough. His parents divorced when he was only 7 and his mother would go on to get remarried 4 different times as he grew up.

His mother’s unstable relationships with men created a chaotic environment for Tony and his siblings. As the oldest of three other siblings, Robbins felt obligated to step up and help his family cope in a household led by a substance abusing mother.

Robbins had to grow up fast.  As a teenager he had to do the grocery shopping every week for the family because his mother couldn’t be bothered to do it. He also had to prepare the meals for everyone because no one else would.

Eventually, Robbins had to take on various jobs in his youth just to keep the bills paid. Amazingly, Robbins would do all these things even without a car, relying solely on public transportation to get around.

At the age of 17, Robbins had a falling-out with his mother, and she kicked him out of the house.  He finished high school but avoided college.

Armed only with a high school diploma he struggled for a few years working menial jobs that sucked the life out of him.  He gained weight, felt broke, and started feeling hopeless about his situation.

One day, after attending a Jim Rohn he became inspired to turn it all around.  He embraced Rohn’s message of hope and the power of taking responsibility for one’s situation.  And he used that inspiration to reach out to Jim Rohn himself for work, and Rohn obliged.

Robbins soon became one of the Rohn’s best salesman.  In fact, Robbins was so good that he became a millionaire by the age of 26 just from sales. 

Leveraging everything he learned from Rohn, Robbins eventually broke out on his own and became the best-selling author, high performance coach, and multimillionaire that the world has come to know and love.

Tony Robbins story goes to show that our past doesn’t equal our future. And you can overcome slow starts and challenging situations to create a rich and wonderful life.

tom brady journey

17. John Paul DeJoria

John Paul DeJoria experienced plenty of hardship before achieving true success. For starters, he grew up in relative poverty. After his parents divorced, his mother couldn’t support him and his brother, so was given up to a foster home.

When his mother finally made enough money to get him and his brother out of the foster home, he still eventually had to find work early on to help his struggling mother pay the bills.

Unfortunately, the financial challenges didn’t cease for John Paul DeJoria after striking out on his own.

After graduating from high school, DeJoria spent two years in the Navy and then started a family. He eked by for a long time by taking various odd jobs as a janitor, gas station attendant, insurance salesmen, and even a door-to-door encyclopedia salesman.

He struggled for a long time to create a prosperous and stable life for himself and his family. Unfortunately, his wife grew impatient and abandoned him and his two-year-old son. Shortly after, he eventually became homeless for a brief period of time. Thankfully, DeJoria never gave up hope.

He hustled for years to get his life in order and provide for his son. Eventually, he found his lucky break after getting his haircut by a hairdresser named Paul Mitchell.

After learning about a high-quality product that his hairdresser sold, he saw the opportunity to go into business with him to help sell his product across the city. So, he went into business with Paul Mitchell and the product became a big hit locally, and then eventually across the entire beauty industry.

John Paul DeJoria leveraged the grit, salesmanship, and business acumen he acquired from all his unprosperous years to transform his budding business partnership into a multinational enterprise. Now, he’s a multi-billionaire .

tom brady journey

Hopefully these success stories help you realize that while success may be elusive, it is not unattainable. We also hope that these handpicked stories have helped you understand that success is both a journey and a destination.

But most importantly, we hope you walk away knowing that in order to achieve success, you’ll have to first go through your share of struggles, rejections, and even disasters, but are now eager to take on the challenge.

So, keep your feet on the ground and your eyes on the prize. Keep moving towards your dreams no matter what. Do this, and your success will be just around the corner.

PS – Every success story is unique and can inspire in a different way. That said, if you’re looking for even more success stories about how others achieved success and riches, then you’ll love these Strive Stories too.

THE KANYE WEST SUCCESS STORY

Kanye West Success Story

Kanye West (now officially known as Ye) is a highly successful artist, producer, cultural icon and entrepreneur. He has released several critically acclaimed albums and started his own fashion line. He has received numerous awards and honors, including ten Grammy Awards. And to top it all off, he’s a multi-millionaire who has become one of the most influential artists and entrepreneurs in the world.

Kanye’s success is due in part to his hard work and dedication. He is always working on new music or projects, and he puts a lot of thought into everything he does. He also has a great team behind him, which has helped him achieve his goals.

“Shoot For The Stars, So If You Fall You Land On A Cloud.” – kanye west –

With that said, if you want to learn more about Kanye West’s success story and how we can use his journey to success to inspire greater levels of creativity and ambition in our own lives, then read on:

The Early Years

Kanye Omari West was born on June 8th, 1977. His parents divorced when he was only 3 years old and he and his mother relocated to Chicago, Illinois from Atlanta, Georgia.

West had a love for the creative arts at an early age and began writing poetry and drawing when he was just 5 years old. He began rapping in 3rd grade and started to write and compose his own music by the time he was in middle school.

He eventually met his mentor, the DJ, and producer No I.D. at a local radio station when he was about 14 years old. No I.D. took Kanye under his wing and taught him how to produce beats and experiment with hip hop productions. West became friends with another up-and-coming rapper, Jay Z, and the two would often freestyle together.

Ultimately, Kanye started creating beats for other artists in the Chicago area and formed a rap group known as the Go-Getters. [1] The group released their first and only album in 1999.

The Struggle

Although Kanye West was successfully working as a producer, he wanted to step into the limelight and be a rapper himself. He tried to convince Jay Z to sign him to his record label, Roc-A-Fella Records, but Jay Z was reluctant to add him to the roster. He eventually relented and signed Kanye in 2002.

On October 23rd, 2003. Kanye experienced a grave car accident that left him with a shattered jaw. He required surgery to reconstruct his face and was bedridden for weeks.

Kanye left the L.A. studio at around 3 am in a rented Lexus, after finishing a late-night session with Peedi Crack, Beanie Sigel, and The Black Eyed Peas. Just blocks away from the W Hotel, he was cut off and collided head-on with another car.

As a result of the accident, his face needed reconstructive surgery. It took Kanye weeks to recover from the accident. Because he did not have health insurance, he had to foot the bill himself.

West used this time to reflect on his life and career. He decided that he needed to focus on his own music and not just produce beats for other artists. He realized that the music he had previously made wouldn’t have a major impact on the world if he were to die in that tragic accident. From this moment forward, Kanye dedicated himself to making the best music of his career.

He would never play small and he proved this by writing and recording several of his most popular hits while still recovering from the accident.

The Rise To Fame

Many of the demos that Kanye made with No I.D. alongside his producing experience, became the basis of his own solo career. He started working on his own music and released his debut album The College Dropout in 2004.

Kanye West Success Story Quote

The album was a huge success, both commercially and critically. It received positive reviews from music critics and debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart. It went on to sell over four million copies in the United States. In addition to this, it was also certified 4-times platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Kanye’s second album, Late Registration, was released in 2005 and was also a huge success. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and received positive reviews from music critics. The album has since been certified triple platinum by the RIAA.

In 2007, Kanye released his third album, Graduation. The album was again a huge success and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. It has since been certified double platinum by the RIAA.

Kanye’s fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak, was released in 2008. The album was a departure from his previous work and featured more electronic and autotuned vocals. Although it was not as commercially successful as his previous albums, it still received positive reviews from music critics.

Kanye’s fifth studio album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, was released in 2010 to critical acclaim. It too debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and became one of the highest-rated albums of all time by music critics.

His sixth studio album, Yeezus, was released in 2013 and received positive reviews from music critics. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and sold over two million copies in the United States.

The seventh studio album, The Life of Pablo, was released in 2016. It also debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and has since been certified platinum by the RIAA.

The Kanye West’s Entrepreneurial Path

Following the release of his debut album, Kanye West began designing and manufacturing his own line of clothing and sneakers. Introducing Shutter Shades in 2008, a sleek new sneaker that incorporates traditional shutter-style sunglasses.

He then produced the “Air Yeezy” line in 2009, a highly successful shoe that lasted until 2013. The Adidas Yeezy Boosts were officially released on December 3, 2013, after months of anticipation and rumors.  

West has also released several fashion lines, including DW by Kanye West, Pastelle Clothing, and A.P.C. Kanye West. He has also been involved in the creative direction of numerous fashion brands, such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Nike.

He also founded a production company and record label, “GOOD Music”, in 2004. The label has since signed artists such as John Legend, Big Sean, Pusha T, Kid Cudi, and Mos Def.

Kanye West and his mother started the “Kanye West Foundation” (now called the Dr. Donda West Foundation) in 2003. It aims to provide access to arts and music education for children in low-income communities. [2]

He also founded “Got Bars” in 2013, a free music writing program that helps young people in high-risk areas of Chicago learn how to write and record their own music.

  “I feel that I’m very blessed. But with great blessings come great responsibility.” – Kanye West

Related: Kanye West Quotes

Kanye’s Fall and Slow Redemption

Kanye’s reputation and riches took a big hit in 2022. After pushing the limits on controversial subjects, he lost a contract with one of his biggest business partners, Adidas. [3]

On top of that, his multi-billion dollar net worth was reduced dramatically, as many platforms and business partners severed ties with the controversial artist.

In Early 2023, Kanye attempted to mend his errors, by apologizing for his comments. That said, he’s reputation and riches has not fully bounced back to the heights of his success.

However, Kanye has slowly been working to redeem his reputation since his public fall from grace . He’s since created new partnerships with various artists, including Ty Dolla Sign and their work on the album ‘Vultures’.

Certainly Kanye’s status still has a ways to go, but he appears to be moving in the right direction. Of course, only time will tell.

Related: Ye’s Net Worth

The Kanye West Method

Having said all of that, it’s apparent that Kanye West is an achievement machine. As we’ve just outlined, he’s been tallying up his wins and accomplishments (along with a few L’s) year-over-year for more than a decade now. But how does he do it?

Well, this video production by El Taco Supreme provides a nice analysis on the creative genius of Kanye that has helped him achieve so much so fast. Give it a look if you want to learn what Kanye’s true secret to success is….

Video Credit: El Taco Supreme ( Subscribe Here )

Lessons Learned

The Kanye West Success Story is one of dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Despite all the obstacles he has faced in his life, he has always pushed forward and continued to achieve success in most of the projects he pursued. He is a true inspiration to all who aspire to follow their dreams.

Some lessons we can take away from Kanye West’s success story are the importance of following your dreams, leveraging your talents, and perseverance . And that no matter what obstacles you face in life, if you take the risk to pursue your talents, and keep pushing forward and working hard, you can achieve success. No doubt, Kanye West is a true inspiration to all who want to make their mark on the world.

Kanye West is one of the most successful and influential musicians of our time. Sure, he’s had his moments of controversy over the years, but that often comes with the territory of fame.

Hopefully this Kanye story will act as a form of inspiration to every person out there who intends to chase their dreams. So, if that sounds like you, just remember that it’s important to think about how you can integrate the lessons learned from Kanye West into our own lives and use them to achieve success.

That said, we can summarize the Kanye West success story with three important points: dedication, hard work , and perseverance. No matter what obstacles you face in life, if your chasing your dream, keep pushing forward and working hard, and you can eventually achieve the success you’re after.

Until you reach those aims,

[1] Complex: The Story Behind Kanye West’s 90’s Chicago Rap Group , The Go-Getters

[2] Britannica: Kanye West

[3] GQ: How Adidas Uncancelled Yeezy

KEVIN HART’S STORY OF SUCCESS

Kevin Hart Success Story

Kevin Hart is a household name these days, but this wasn’t always the case. Before he became the highly successful comedian, actor, and producer that we all love to be entertained by these days, he experienced his fair share of struggle, challenges and failure. And now that he’s broken into Hollywood, won countless awards, and built up an impressive fortune himself, we aim to unravel exactly how he managed to do so in this Kevin Hart Success Story special.

“Everybody That’s Successful Lays A Blueprint Out.” – kevin hart –

Before we dive into his story, know this, we agree with Kevin Hart. Success lays a blueprint , which is why we investigate the inspiring success stories of icons like Kevin Hart.  We know every story has something to teach, and if you want to learn about success, then success stories such as this one will do the trick. That said, if you’re ready to learn how Kevin Hart went from being a shoe salesmen to one of the highest paid entertainers in the world, let’s jump right into his inspiring story.

Kevin Hart Success Story

Note:  We are reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Early Days | The Kevin Hart Success Story

Kevin Hart was born in Philadelphia, PA on July 6th, 1979, and into what many would consider a challenging home life. Hart’s mother essentially raised him, as his father was rarely around due to alcoholism, drug addiction, and consistent jailtime. Thus, Hart’s father did not actively participate in raising him.

After Hart’s mother limited his and his one sibling’s (an older brother) time with their father, due to his negative influence (i.e. stealing money from the family, coming around the kids high, being reckless, etc..) they would ultimately have to make due in without their father in one of the toughest neighborhoods, with just one committed parent at the helm.

Fortunately, Kevin Hart’s mother was a strong religious woman with a good head on her shoulders. She was a mother who always encouraged her kids to better themselves, and to set big goals and strive to achieve them.

She not only gave great advice to her kids, but she lived out what she preached, and set a good example by continually seeking to better herself, educate herself and grow in her career.

To cope with his troubled upbringing, and the negative cloud over his home life, Hart would turn to comedy. In fact, he would leverage much of the trauma he experienced in his younger years, into much of his early comedic material.

As a fan of stand-up comedy from a young age, Kevin Hart would eventually give his dream a shot once he graduated high school.

Kevin Hart’s debut into the world of stand-up was not walk in the park. In fact, it was an uphill battle for him. He gave the stage a shot initially in Philadelphia after some his co-workers informed of the opportunity, and encouraged him to give it a shot, but bombed the show.

He then moved to shows in New York, and sought out gigs in Massachusetts as well. Hart would commute nearly 2 hours daily to New York from Philadelphia to try and get noticed in the big New York comedy clubs.

Hart was making moves , but he struggled initially. From getting booed off the stage, to having chicken thrown at him, his act wasn’t an instant winner.

Despite his best efforts and even working a side gig as a shoe salesmen, Hart eventually fell behind on his rent and faced the threat of eviction.

Kevin Hart Story of Success Quote

Fortunately, his mom believed in him, and helped him get back on his feet. She supported Hart by paying for his rent for a whole year while he strived to make a name for himself, under the condition that if things didn’t work out after this trial period he’d go college. [1] Fortunately for Hart, and all of us (current and future fans) he was determined to make a name for himself.

Despite the awkward silences, the boos, and the bombed shows, Kevin remained fearless , and kept doing shows. And with every bad joke, and every failed show, he slowly and methodically improved his craft. Things especially changed for Hart when he realized his strategy of trying to be like every other big name comedian wasn’t working.

Thus, once Kevin stepped into his own authentic act, people really started to take notice and that’s when his career began to take off.

Rising To The Top

People started to take note of Kevin Hart’s brilliant comedy. Oddly, Kevin Hart’s fame in the world of comedy really took off, but only after others began stealing his acts.

But Hart’s ambition was to be more than just a stand-up comedian. He also wanted to make his way into Hollywood and become an comedic actor. So, he took action and went for it.

Eventually, Hart landed his first movie role in the movie “Paper Soldiers”. He then made it on the air for a short lived pilot in 2001, which never got picked up. Then, just three years later, Hart landed his own sitcom known as “The Big House.”

However, the show would last for only six episodes, marking a very short-lived run.

Slow And Steady Wins The Race

But, Hart didn’t lose heart. Even though the plug was pulled on his sitcom, he didn’t quit . He kept on pursuing his comedy career, waiting for his next big Hollywood opportunity to arise while he did stand-up around the country and took on smaller roles in various movies like “ Scary Movie” 3 & 4, “The 40 Year-Old Virgin”, “Barbershop”, and “Little Fockers”.

After awhile though, all those small roles started turning into medium-sized roles, and as he racked up more and more roles, the bigger opportunities started coming in, like major multi-million dollar comedy tours and landing serious roles in major blockbuster hits like “Ride Along”, “Get Hard”, “Central Intelligence”, “Jumanji”, “Jumanji: Next Level”, and many more. [2]

And he’s been going strong ever since. With 96 and growing acting credits under his belt, Hart has managed to successfully build for himself a decent-sized multi-million dollar fortune.

On top of this, he’s also the founder of the fast growing multi-million dollar media company known as Hartbeat. [3] Needless to say, Hart has this “success thing” figured out.

Related: Kevin Hart’s Net Worth

Kevin Hart’s Success Ethos

Kevin Hart followed his passion to become a world-class entertainer. But it took more than just passion for him to achieve the massive success he now enjoys. In fact, it could be said that Kevin Hart’s success is a biproduct of his work-ethic , grit , and comedic genius.

However, he has his own take on exactly what allowed him to be so successful. So, in his Kevin Hart’s own words, this is why he succeeded:

Kevin Hart persisted in the face of failure and rejection, and if you want success, he believes you should too…

1. “If you give up at the first sign of struggle, you’re really not ready to be successful.” – Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart didn’t just dream about success, he took action to make it a reality. There’s no denying that he encourages you to do the same…

2. “The best tip I could give you is to be ACTIVE. So many people TALK about what they want to do and they just love words. Don’t be a talker, BE A DOER.” – Kevin Hart

Hart believes that hard work and determination are critical components to success, and that without these two ingredients, success is impossible. So pay he to his success wisdom when he says…

3. “Hard work and determination equals success. Nothing comes easy. Put your mind to something.” – Kevin Hart

Lastly, Kevin Hart doesn’t just work to work. He believes that if you’re going to be putting in the effort, it should at least be towards getting better. So, don’t just work to work, work to improve, to grow, and to add value. In other words, commit to continuous improvement, a.k.a. kaizen …

4. “It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being better.” – Kevin Hart

Related: Kevin Hard Quotes On Success

More Success Insights

Hopefully these four Kevin Hart insights paint a clear picture of his success ethos. However, if you’re looking for a bit more, you can now learn Hart’s blueprint for success directly from the legend himself.

Masterclass has partnered with Kevin Hart, giving him a powerful platform to actually teach people how to use humor to make their mark. You can learn more about it below:

tom brady journey

There you have it, Kevin Hart’s story. We covered his journey of growing up with an absent father in a troubled household, to then struggling to make rent as he pursued his dream. To then reaching the heights of achievement after many years of persisting in the face of rejection, long commutes, and even longer days.

We also covered the success ethos that we believed helped Kevin Hart find success. And we provided the success wisdom that he’s laid out for all to learn from. Here are those combined success insights once again as a quick recap:

Work Ethic | Grit | Taking Action | Kaizen

You now have some of Kevin’s secrets to success, but it’s up to you to apply them to your life. Wishing you all the best on your journey to success.

PS – If you enjoyed our Kevin Hart Story on success, then you’ll likely enjoy reading about these equally inspiring stories of struggle and success .

11 MOTIVATIONAL STORIES TO HELP YOU KEEP MOVING FORWARD

Motivational Stories

It’s a fact, success eludes most people (at least at first).  And chances are high it’s even eluded you once or twice too. This initial elusiveness of success is the reason we’ve pulled together this collection of motivational stories for you. Our aim is to convince you that success won’t evade you forever. Especially if you decide to press on and stay the course no matter what.

We know success is elusive for everyone. At least it is initially.   Success is tricky, it evades, dodges, and ducks away from just about every single person who pursues her. And this is especially the case early in the chase.

The great news is, that success can be found and captured. But, it is only done so by the truly committed. These “lucky few” eventually reach their aim because they discover the qualities that must be possessed before they can win the game. Qualities such as high effort, courage , and self-discipline.

But most importantly, they’ll discover success because they learn how to master the most difficult success quality of them all. Which is, believe it or not… staying power.

Staying power; otherwise known as determined persistence and never giving in, is what helps people reach their eventual destination.

There’s No Magic Pill

Now, if there were a magic pill we could give you to help you become a human battering ram , the type of battering ram that hammers away on the doors of success until it gets through, we’d give it to you.  But, no such pill exists.

However, what we can give you is a few motivational stories to inspire a stronger belief that you can succeed, if you will but persist. And that’s what we have here for you today friend.  11 short motivational stories to help you strengthen your staying power. 11 stories to help you reach your goals and win.

So, if you want to give those doors of success a real scare, read these 11 motivational stories about striving with the utmost care.

BEST MOTIVATIONAL STORIES

Best Motivational Stories

1. Paulo Coelho

When ‘The Alchemist’ was first published some 30 some years ago, no one noticed. A bookseller in the northeast corner of the country told the author, Paulo Coelho , that only one person purchased a copy during that first week when it was released.  Un-phased by the silent reception, Paulo Coelho confidently waited for those next few sales to come in.  And he would wait a long time too, as it took six more months before his second copy was sold—and it was sold to the exact same person who bought the first!

By the end of that first year, Paulo Coelho’s publisher lost hope in his book and so decided to cancel his contract and cut him loose.

But, Paulo Coelho didn’t let that demoralizing rejection paralyze him.  Instead of quitting like many would at this point, he decided to be steadfast, and continued to pursue his vision.  So, he looked for another publisher.  He looked, and looked, and looked until he finally found one.  And with it, he found his second chance.

Once his book was published again, it slowly started to sell by word of mouth.  His persistence started to pay off, as he eventually sold three thousand books, then six, then ten.  Month over month year over year his book sales started to grow.  And now… ‘ The Alchemist ’ has sold over 150 million copies across the world.

It’s a good thing Paulo Coelho had staying power.  Had he quit, he wouldn’t be who he is today, a literary legend .

tom brady journey

“All battles in life serve to teach us something.” – Paulo Coelho

2. Michael Jordan

Most people don’t know this, but when Michael Jordan was a sophomore in high school, he was eager to prove himself as a great basketball player.  As such, he tried out for the Varsity squad.    But guess what?  Things didn’t go as planned.  Jordan got cut from the team.

Considering he had such big dreams as a star basketball player, that rejection hit him really hard.  In fact, it hit him so hard that he went home, locked himself in his room, and cried.

Now Jordan cried, cried, and cried, but he didn’t quit.  He picked himself up and decided to at least crush it on the JV squad.  And crush it he did.  He also decided to train his ass off in the off season.  He even grew four inches.  And then that next year, Michael Jordan did what all winners do….he tried again.

This time, however, he made the team, and quickly became the school’s best player.  By the time he was a senior, he made the McDonalds’ All-American team.  Then he went off to play in college…and the rest is history.

Michael Jordan didn’t quit.  Instead he transformed his failure into fuel for future success.  He then used that fuel to become “The Michael Jordan”.  The man who would score 32,292 points in his basketball career, acquire 6 NBA championships, collect 5 MVP titles, and come to be known to many, as the GOAT (Greatest of all time).

So, the moral of this motivational story is that no, doesn’t mean never .

motivational stories quote - mj

“To learn to succeed, you must first learn to fail.” – Michael Jordan

3. Lionel Messi

If you keep up with soccer, then you’ve probably heard of Lionel Messi .  At age of 11, Messi was cut from his soccer team because he was too small.  He was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency which made him much smaller than most kids his age.

However, Messi didn’t let this stop him.  Instead, week after week after week, every day, before going to sleep, he would inject growth hormones into himself.  Messi would do this for seven days in one leg, then seven days in the other, for six long years.

Fortunately, Messi’s foresight and persistence paid off.  Now, he is one of the highest paid soccer players, having a net worth of over 400 million, is considered one of the best soccer players of all time, and has won soccer’s greatest achievement, ‘The Ballon d’Or’ eight times.

Even when it seems nature is against you at first, she bends to those with a strong will who are determined to reach their goals.

tom brady journey

“You can overcome anything, if and only if you love something enough.” – Lionel Messi

4. Steven Pressfield

Steven Pressfield is a professional hero to many, especially authors.  Here’s why….

It took Steven Pressfield 17 years before he made his first dollar as a writer.  He wrote for 27 years before he got his first novel published (The Legend of Bagger Vance).

During that time, Steven worked at 21 different jobs in eleven states.  He taught school, drove tractor-trailers, worked in advertising and as a screenwriter in Hollywood, he worked on offshore oil rigs, and even picked fruit as a migrant worker, but he never gave up.  Sure, he had to go back and work for “the man” from time to time, but he kept his eye on the prize; his dream.

This is why his pursuit of his passion is the epitome of staying power.

Now, Steven is the author of over 21 books and is a source of inspiration for authors and creative people around the world.

Art is war, and so is finding success in general.  So, if your dreams are slow to come don’t lose heart, just remember Steven Pressfield, and be willing to fight long and hard for your art.

short motivational stories - steven pressfield

“Are you paralyzed with fear? That’s a good sign. Fear is good. Like self-doubt, fear is an indicator. Fear tells us what we have to do. Remember one rule of thumb: the more scared we are of a work or calling, the more sure we can be that we have to do it.” – Steven Pressfield

Steven Spielberg’s journey to becoming well, Steven Spielberg is a fantastic motivational story. Here’s why, Spielberg was rejected from USC film school three times. But that didn’t stop him, instead, he just tried a different school.  He applied to Cal State, Long Beach, and got into their film program.  And while still a student a Cal State, he landed an unpaid internship at Universal Studios.  It was a fortuitous gig that soon led his dropping out.  It was a calculated move that would allow him to rub elbows with movie makers at Universal Studios to shortening his path to fulfilling his dream.

Unfortunately, his internship didn’t last long enough for him to break into the movie business like he had planned.  But, undeterred, Steven would still sneak in to the studios, pretending to work there so he could learn more about movies until he could catch his break.

Legend has it, that he had an 8 mm film that he knew the studio executives would love, if only they would watch it.  He found a way to get it into their hands, but they flip flopped on him, and then said they would only watch it if he shot it on a 16-mm film.  So, Steven went out and rented a 16-mm camera and reshot the whole movie.  When he brought it back to the executives, they told him not to come back until it was on a 35-mm film.  Undeterred, he jumped through their hoops and reshot the movie on the 35-mm film.

Finally, the executives decided to relent and gave his movie a look.  And the rest is history.  The movie went on to win a prize at the Atlanta film festival and helped Steven lock in a 7-year contract directing movies with Universal.

No doubt, If you keep looking for your break, the day will come when you find it.

tom brady journey

“Sometimes a dream almost whispers… it never shouts. Very hard to hear. So you have to, every day of your lives, be ready to hear what whispers in your ear.” – Steven Spielberg

6. Stephen King

Before he was the king of horror, Stephen King was essentially a starving artist. Money was so scarce in his early writing days, that he and his wife had to live in a trailer, couldn’t afford a telephone, had to borrow clothes for their wedding, and worked multiple jobs to support their family and keep the lights on.

But, the pull of his dream to write was greater that his economic plight.

On top of the financial challenges Stephen King faced, he, like most authors, experienced lots of rejection.  In fact, he received 60 rejections before selling his first story, “The Glass Floor” for a measly $35.  But, he kept on writing, striving, and struggling, until he eventually sold his next story.  And fortunately, his next story would set him up to write full-time, forever.  What was the name of that book?  “Carrie”.

Having published over 200 short stories, 58 novels, and selling over 350 million copies, Stephen King is not just the king of horror, he’s also the king of staying power.

motivational story quote stephen king

“The scariest moment is always just before you start.” – Stephen King

7. Walt Disney

Everyone knows who this legend is.  But, did you know before Walt Disney was “The Walt Disney”, he had once been fired because his boss thought he lacked imagination and had no good ideas?

We know, it’s crazy to think that he would ever be considered the opposite of what he ended up being so great at.

Fortunately, Walt Disney didn’t listen to his critics, and pressed on to create his own cartoon animation company.  Now, just because he pressed on doesn’t mean he hit it big right away.  He would go on to experience a few additional failures along the way (along with few small successes), but ultimately, he kept on pressing forward, innovating, and improving on his love for animation.

And, well…he eventually smashed through those doors of success and went on to become the creator of the household name that we’ve all come to know and love.

Truly, every success, at some time or another, has had to learn how to believe in themselves when no one else on this big blue planet is willing to hold the same belief.  And the chances are high you’ll have to do the same.

So, when someone tries to halt your vision, just remember good ole Walt Disney .  Ignore your critics, believe in yourself, and get yourself back into the game.

tom brady journey

You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.” – Walt Disney

8. Jack Canfield & MVH

The authors of the now famous ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ series of books faced massive obstacles when first starting out.  Some publishers said their books would never sell.  Others said that their title was stupid, and that nobody bought collections of short stories.

Undeterred, this dynamic duo went on to reach out to publisher after publisher.  They suffered through 123 rejections before things started to look up for them.

Fortunately, they didn’t take no for an answer, because they eventually found stratospheric success with their books, and as a result have sold over 500 million books across the world.

Now Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen (MVH) are practically household names.

If it wasn’t for their staying power and dogged perseverance, they never would have become the founders of one of the most successful publishing franchises in the world today.

jack canfield motivational stories quote

“Everything you want is on the other side of fear.” – Jack Canfield

9. Howard Shultz

Thanks to the persistence and tenacity of Howard, today we can enjoy a delicious Starbucks coffee as we  work at our computers in just about every city in the United States of America.

Most people don’t know this, but when Howard Shultz was just starting out, he was finding it very difficult to convince investors to write him a check.   It would take more than 214 rejections before he found someone who believed in his idea enough to help him fund it.

Now that’s staying power.  But that’s not all.  In it’s infancy, his company also incurred losses for three straight years.  And on one of those early years, 1989 to be exact, he incurred more than $1 million in losses alone.

Fortunately, he managed to stick with his goal, and completely turned his company around and into one of the strongest brands on the planet. Had he not remained determined to reach his goals, he never would have.

Howard Shultz is now a legend, and his efforts have made his pursuit a classic motivational story that everyone should know about.

tom brady journey

“I am convinced that most people can achieve their dreams and beyond if they have the determination to keep trying.” – Howard Schultz

10. Robert Kiyosaki

The man behind the extremely successful ‘ Rich Dad Poor Dad ’ brand, Robert Kiyosaki is a prime example of persistence in action.

His first business sold those cool looking velcro wallet’s that were all the rage in the 80’s.  Unfortunately, he didn’t protect his product with patents and eventually went bankrupt after competitors snatched up most of his market share.

But he persisted, and soon after went on to start another company that sold licensed apparel for heavy metal bands, unfortunately, that company would eventually flounder as well.

He kept pressing forward though, seeking his one-way ticket out of the rat race .    While working for the Xerox company to pay the bills, he kept striving to build a business.  Eventually, he found success when his first financial education company took off.  Soon after, he then sold that company and leveraged his new-found wealth to become the wealth guru and best-selling author he is today.

Robert Kiyosaki didn’t know ‘the how’, because hardly any of us do.  But, he knew ‘the where’.  He knew where he wanted to go, and kept moving forward, failure after failure until he got there.

motivational stories about goals

“Winners are not afraid of losing. But losers are. Failure is part of the process of success. People who avoid failure also avoid success.” – Robert Kiyosaki

11. Steve Harvey

Steve Harvey , the now famous American television presenter, comedian, actor, author, and game show host has a great motivational story. Harvey was once a struggling, starving artist. And before he would become the famous host of ‘Family Feud’, and essentially a household name, he had to conquer many obstacles first.

In Harvey’s early days, when he was just in grade school, after being asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, he shared with his teacher and his entire class that he wanted to be on T.V. After speaking about his dreams, his teacher lambasted him, and assured him that he would never make it on Television. His teacher told him that his dream was impossible because no one in his community ever made it on T.V… Nor would he make it in the show business because he had a speech impediment.

But, Harvey didn’t let his teacher dismantle his dream. No, he would strive and struggle to make a name for himself after getting out of school. And for nearly 12 years after he turned 18, he would do small stand up comedy gigs, and local shows to break into show biz.

Interestingly, on the day he was considering giving up, instead of calling his dad to tell him he quit, he called an answering machine his parents set up for him for anyone who was looking to get in touch with him. And on that answering machine was a message from the Apollo Comedy Club inviting him to come on to their show.

Delighted by the invitation, Harvey pounced on the opportunity. And once he got on T.V., he never looked back. Steve Harvey has been on T.V. ever since.

motivational story about steve harvey

“A person has to remember that the road to success is always under construction. You have to get that through your head. That it is not easy becoming successful.” – Steve Harvey

Bonus Motivational Story:

Here’s one last and final motivational story. It is one that you may already be familiar with as they made a movie about it. This story is about about Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger , a 5 foot 6 inch man who dreamed of playing football for Notre Dame.

Rudy was dyslexic, undersized, and wasn’t gifted with the exceptional speed or strength that’s typically found amongst many other football players. He didn’t receive any scholarships to play football, nor was he invited to play anywhere, but he stayed true to his dream, so he walked-on to the team.

As a member of the scout team, he tried and tried again to make the official team, striving to do whatever it took to suite up in the blue and gold and enter the arena as a Fighting Irish football player.

He would go on to struggle for four long years. He would pour his heart into each practice, giving each one his full effort, all for one single moment. Rudy poured his soul into everything he did, and he did it for one single opportunity to get on to the field and play.

His grit and dedication to reaching his life’s goal of getting on that field inspired his entire team, community, and thousands of Fighting Irish fans. Rudy’s determination, heart, and commitment to never quitting helped him finally fulfill his dream of playing for the Fighting Irish.

On the last three plays of the last game of the season, Rudy finally got his shot. His coach put him in with very little time left on the clock, but Rudy seized his moment of glory. And on the final play of the game, Rudy sacked the quarterback.

Rudy’s persistence, dogged determination, and commitment to his dream, led him to becoming the first player in Notre Dame history to ever get carried off the field by his teammates.

motivational story quote by Rudy

“Sometimes a winner is a dreamer who just won’t quit.” – Rudy

Related: Keep Moving Forward Quotes

The key takeaways from these motivational stories is the following: No does not mean never, and the struggle won’t last forever, but if you lack staying power, success will inevitably evade you altogether.

The road to success is filled with no’s, rejections, mishaps and failures along the way.  But, despite all the obstacles, if you want to achieve your aims, you must decide to keep going every single day.

So, if you’ve learned anything from these motivational stories we hope it is this:  That there are only two rules when it comes to success.  Rule number one, never give up.  Rule number two, never forget rule number one .

PS – If you enjoyed these motivational stories about goals and achieving your dreams, and you’re looking for some more inspiration, then you’ll love these other powerful success stories that we’ve pulled together. But, if you’re just looking for some additional motivation, then you’ll these awesome quotes on motivation for winning will do the trick.

THE MARY KAY ASH STORY

Mary Kay Ash Story

Mary Kay Ash  was one of the most inspiring entrepreneurial leaders in modern history. She was the founder of the multi-billion dollar corporation Mary Kay Cosmetics. She also authored multiple best-selling books like The Mary Kay Way , Miracles Happen , You Can Have It All , and many others. And to this day, her legacy lives on, positively impacting people all over the world.

With that being said, we aim to explore how this remarkable human came to be known as America’s Greatest Woman entrepreneur in this Mary Kay Ash story of success.

We believe success leaves clues, which is why we cover stories of accomplished and inspiring people like Mary Kay Ash. We also choose to highlight individuals who have extraordinary stories that can inspire us to create successful lives for ourselves.

Each story possesses hidden insights that can teach us, guide us, and give us the advantage we all seek to get ahead in life. So, without further ado, if you’re ready to learn how Mary Kay Ash achieved the impossible, let’s dive in:

tom brady journey

Mary Kay Ash Story | Early Days

Mary Kay was born in 1918 in the small Texas town of Hot Wells just outside of Houston, TX. Upon graduating high school in 1934, she got married soon after and started a family at the age of 17. They eventually had a total of three children together, and Mary Kay nurtured and raised her children while her husband was away serving military duty overseas during WWII.

Eventually, when the war ended and her husband returned home in 1945, they chose to get a divorce. Mary would go on to support herself and her kids with various sales jobs.

At one point she sold books door-to-door to make ends meet. Fortunately she would eventually hit her stride in sales, and go on to become a top salesperson for Stanley Home products.

In fact, Mary Kay became so good at selling, especially in the home party environment, that she would eventually get offered an even better opportunity with the company World Gifts which she took advantage of.

After spending over a decade working for other people, Mary Kay would eventually get disenchanted with being overlooked for promotions and internal opportunities that she believed she deserved. She often felt overlooked because because she was a woman.

So, in 1963 at the age of 45 when all of her children were already grown and young adults, Mary Kay decided to retire from her 25 year-long career in direct sales, as a Director of Training. But, while enjoying her early retirement she eventually grew bothered by the idea that her hard work and abilities were never truly and justly rewarded.

Certainly, she was already successful, but she grew frustrated with the memory of having so many opportunities pass her by throughout her sales career primarily because she was a woman. As such, she ultimately decided to squash the negative thoughts and recurring doubts she was having by creating a business that she believed could keep help women avoid such unfairness altogether.

Mary Kay Ash Success Story

So, not knowing anything about starting a business, she decided to take ownership of her situation, and took a chance at becoming the owner of a business that would operate by the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”.

Inspired to call the shots, and earn the recognition she felt she (and all other women) deserved, she went on to form a cosmetics business named Beauty by Mary Kay with one of her sons. After procuring the ingredients and formulas for lotions and other feminine cosmetic products, she went on to open up her first store front in Dallas Texas.

Seized Opportunity

But Mary Kay didn’t want to just create any business, she wanted to create something that truly empowered others. She wanted to create a business that would create more opportunities for women, and that would give them the support needed for them to be successful.

As such, she organized her business in a format that she was familiar with, the direct-selling format . Mary Kay felt that this business model would empower her sales reps and put them in true control of their own future especially when combined with her ‘Golden Rule’ philosophy.

Mary Kay’s new business incentivized entrepreneurial-minded women who were eager to work independently to build a business with low start-up and overhead costs. As such, her business not only created new opportunities for women, but it gave them an opportunity to take control of their financial situation, while maintaining the flexibility to do it on their own terms.

Mary Kay Ash was a hard working woman, and she had a passion for helping other women get ahead. She was a strong leader.

And as highlighted earlier, she was a big believer in the Golden Rule from the Bible. Thus, she believed that anyone could get ahead if they would lead their lives according to good moral principles and the Golden Rule.

As such, Mary Kay became a big advocate for pursuing business from a position of principles and integrity, and she coached and led her sales people to live by these guiding rules. Mary Kay was also a big believer in listening, in treating people like she would want to be treated, in relationship building, and in the idea that when you aim to do good not just for yourself, but for others, you too will do well.

The results of her leadership speak for themselves, as she managed to create many successful entrepreneurs and millionaires , and in the process the world-renowned multi-billion dollar business franchise now known as Mary Kay Cosmetics .

Indeed, her leadership helped her achieve extreme financial and business success, but most importantly, here leadership helped her create a movement that inspired, and continues to inspire the hearts and minds of women all over the world.

Mary Kay Ash Accolades

No doubt the achievements just mentioned above are remarkable on their own, but, Mary Kay Ash also managed to accumulate an impressive list of additional accolades that are worthy of our admiration, and here are a just a few of them:

  • Awarded ‘Greatest Female Entrepreneur in American History’ Award by Baylor University
  • Named as ‘One of 25 Greatest Business Leaders of Our Time’ by Wharton School of Business
  • Awarded the ‘Humanitarian Rose Award’
  • Awarded the ‘Golden Plate Award’
  • Honored with the ‘Horatio Alger Award’
  • Inducted into Junior Achievements U.S. Business Hall of Fame

Success Ethos | In Her Own Words

A handful of qualities contributed to Mary Kay Ash’s achievement of success. In observing her story, it is apparent that she was a go-getter who didn’t wait for opportunity to come to her, but instead seized and created opportunities for herself.

Her story also shows us that success doesn’t always arrive quickly, and that it sometimes takes a lot of frustrating experiences, challenges, and even failures before we hit our stride.

With that being said, here are a few additional Mary Kay Ash takes on success that demonstrates the type of thinking and mindset that helped her (and that can help you) achieve success.

“Opportunities have always and will always be around. You simply have to take advantage of them.” – Mary Kay Ash

“Honesty is the cornerstone of all success, without which confidence and ability to perform shall cease to exist.” – Mary Kay Ash

“One of the secrets of success is to refuse to let temporary setbacks defeat us.” – Mary Kay Ash

“Throw out the words ‘If I can’, ‘I hope’, and ‘maybe’, and replace them with ‘I can, I will, I must.” – Mary Kay Ash

Related: Mary Kay Ash Quotes

Key Takeaways of The Mary Kay Ash Story

There you have it, the inspiring Mary Kay Ash story that proves that anything is possible, and that you can find more success in your life or in your business if you put people first, listen more, and most importantly, seek to follow the ‘Golden Rule’.

Lastly, one the most important takeaway’s from her story is this; that you’re never too old to start something amazing. As Mary Kay Ash’s life has proven, the end of your career or the last phase of your life can become the beginning of your legacy. In short, your past up until this point, can be the stepping stone to your greater future .

DEFYING THE ODDS: HOW THIS YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR BUILT HIS $25M+ COMPANY WITH JUST $600

Wilbur You

Wilbur You is the founder and CEO of Youtech. He is a Chinese-American immigrant who moved to the United States at the age of two when he and his widowed mother decided to leave Brazil to pursue a better life. They settled in the Chicago suburb, Naperville, where his mother worked long hours to support their family while simultaneously attending college. From this, Wilbur witnessed first-hand the result of combining one’s current resources with determination to achieve goals at any age. 

In The Beginning 

Wilbur found his knack for problem-solving at 10 years old when he developed an online game, attracting over 10,000 active and daily paying users. Though the game would eventually get shut down for copyright infringement, this ignited his entrepreneurial fire.

Wilbur later attended Northern Illinois University where he studied computer science. Usually one of the busiest times in one’s life, Wilbur was determined to start a successful business while still just a college student.

He failed at this not once, but twice. While deciding to further his education through DeVry University’s Business Management School and after working as a marketing coordinator for a short while, Wilbur tried for a final time (and with a little more knowledge and experience) to launch a company. This is when Youtech was born.

Wilbur started Youtech & Associates as a one-man operation at the age of 21. It was by no means an easy start. Wilbur’s primary goal was to build something from nothing to create a positive change in the world. While his mission was clear, reality quickly set in when he realized that Youtech was merely an idea and that there was a tremendous amount of work that still needed to be done.

The challenges of launching a business started early on as the company had no money, no connections, and most importantly, no customers. Wilbur began working out of the basement of his childhood home, making over 100 cold calls every day asking every business he could find to give him a chance at building their professional websites for a small fee.

The company (Wilbur) knew that to be successful , he needed to take on anyone and any project, large or small, to build a significant client base.

As his small business grew, Wilbur recruited two of his best friends to help get the initial $600 investment off the ground. This grassroots effort required the team to work up to 80 hours a week but they pushed through each challenging day for months.

Slowly but surely their hard work began to pay off. They were now on the receiving end of those phone calls. At this point, Youtech was able to save enough from various projects to open a small office near Chicago and hire a few additional team members with experience in web design, marketing, client relations, and more.

By expanding services, Youtech’s preliminary roster of clients grew faster than Wilbur could have imagined. 

Fast forward eight years, the team now consists of over 60 employees throughout its offices in Chicago, Arizona and most recently, Texas. The company has been ranked in Inc.’s Fastest Growing Companies in the country for four years running. 

Youtech Today

Today, Wilbur reflects on his (and his team’s) setbacks, failures, and hardships, and is proud of this challenging journey. The idea of Youtech created a full-fledged integrated marketing agency that is now the home of a hodgepodge of extremely creative individuals that have serviced over 1,000 clients in various industries including MillerCoors, Chick-fil-A, and 3M. 

Wilbur and his team recognize that today’s marketing landscape is moving quickly. Platforms are always changing and algorithms are changing even faster. So, every day, the Youtech team makes it a priority to learn how to best optimize leads and conversions to enhance their resources for current and future clients. 

Opportunities Available 

As a result of his dedication and work ethic , Wilbur has been able to secure opportunities for awards, speaking engagements, and more.

After only a decade in the marketing and advertising industry, Wilbur was selected by Forbes’ notable 30 Under 30 2021 Class for his achievements with Youtech. He has a unique ability to construct personalized marketing strategies for clients and is able to effortlessly bridge the gap between traditional and digital marketing methods.

As the visionary architect behind Youtech’s ever-growing marketing empire, Wilbur knows how to bootstrap a business from the ground up and keep the arrow pointing in the right direction without outside funding.

In addition to this, Wilbur was selected to serve on the advisory board of The Alkaline Water Company (the #1 bulk water brand in North America), where he consults on e-commerce and marketing. Wilbur also volunteers annually to speak to Naperville Central High School students about entrepreneurship. Additionally, Wilbur is a published author who published the inspiring must-read memoir, Happy, Humble, Motivated .

Wilbur You Book

Wilbur and Youtech’s journey has not been easy but they have certainly come a long way from building $500 websites in a basement. Wilbur’s hard work opened various doors and he is now the mastermind behind million-dollar marketing, app development, and web design deals.

Wilbur always notes that education is something that nobody can ever take away from you. Expanding your knowledge and continuously learning can bring you a sense of satisfaction without settling for less than you deserve. 

As Wilbur continually states, the most important thing for any business is the people with whom you surround yourself. He looks for candidates who don’t necessarily have the best resume and seeks out those who he can sense are high achievers at the end of the day.

His method is to find employees who are better than him in a particular area, like marketing or graphic design, and then welcomes them with open arms.

Wilbur said what he is most proud of, though, is that Youtech was built the right way and created an environment where each of his team members is significant and feels like a valuable asset to the company each and every day.

Until you reach your aims,

PS – If you enjoyed this success story about Wilbur You, then you’ll love these handful of success stories from other inspiring young entrepreneurs as well.

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Tom Brady’s journey to becoming the GOAT

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Tom Brady holding the Lombardi trophy

Lamon Lyles , Staff Writer February 27, 2021

What does it take to become the GOAT? While many people know the answer to that question, not so many people can actually accomplish it. No one ever thought Tom Brady would be in the conversation.  He was drafted by the New England Patriots as the 199th pick and as one of the least athletic quarterbacks. Afterwards, he sought to prove to the world that he was severely underrated  through his clutch plays and strong leadership. But yet, till this day, some people still do not give Tom Brady the credit he deserves.

During his time with New England Patriots, he won six super bowls, three MVPs, and once finished an amazing season when he threw for 50 touchdowns. But during that time, people wanted to give Bill Belichick, the Patriot’s coach, most of the credit. Due to this, when Tom Brady decided to leave and join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, lots of sports fans doubted Tom Brady going into the season. Cejay Hopkins — a big NFL fan — said, “ I didn’t expect the Buccaneers to even make the playoffs because Tom Brady is so old and the previous year before they weren’t good.” He also says, “ Through the midway point of the season I thought I was right but they just turned up out of nowhere.” He was right about the Bucs just turning up because after their loss to the Chiefs in week 12 of the NFL regular season, the Bucs adjusted and won every game afterward

In a Sports Illustrated article, a player said, “ Brady changed the team’s mindset.” And to make the journey to the super bowl even more special Tom Brady defeated the Washington Football Team who had the 7th best defense in the league. Then he led his team to defeat Drew Brees and the Saints who were among the top five best defensive teams in the league. Then in the National Football Conference (NFC) championship game, Brady defeated Aaron Rodgers, one of the best quarterbacks in the league who is a top contender in the GOAT conversation. Going into the Super Bowl, Brady had a lot to prove because sports fans were saying Patrick Mahomes was the best quarterback in the league and took it a step further and said he will succeed more than Tom Brady. I believe Tom Brady went into the Super Bowl with a chip on his shoulder to prove to people that there will be nobody better than him. With the 31-9 victory over the Chiefs that gave Tom Brady his seventh super bowl win, he now has more super wins than any other NFL franchise. The best part about it is that Tom Brady said he’s not done, so he has a chance to win more Super Bowls. Tom Brady knows what it takes to be the GOAT because he is the GOAT.

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Lamon Lyles is a 2022 graduate of Eleanor Roosevelt High School. He is a junior this year, opting to stay on the Varsity baseball team for a 2nd year in...

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Tom Brady retirement: Live updates, news as 7-time Super Bowl champion steps away after 22 seasons

tom brady journey

Tom Brady officially announced his retirement Tuesday after seven Super Bowls, five Super Bowl MVP awards and three league MVP honors in 22 seasons with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers .

The Patriots picked Brady in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft, 199th overall, and saw him go on to become what many consider the greatest player in league history.

During the 2021 season, Brady set the NFL's all-time record for passing yards. He also is the NFL's passing touchdown leader at 624, in passing completions (7,263) and passing attempts (11,317). His 2021 season was one of the most prolific in his career, with a league-leading 5,316 yards and 43 touchdown passes. At age 44 he led all NFL quarterbacks in passing yards, attempts, completions and touchdowns.

Multiple reports Saturday said Brady was retiring, but he did not comment until Monday on his "Let's Go" podcast, saying he's "still going through the process" of making a decision. "When the time's right, I'll be ready to make a decision one way or the other," he added. He declined to give a timeline for a decision.

The live blog from The Athletic follows news, coverage, reaction and more surrounding Brady's retirement and even a look back at the quarterback's greatest moments.

Required reading on Tom Brady from The Athletic :

  • Why winning a Super Bowl with the Bucs doesn't impact Brady's Patriots legacy
  • Brady as a Patriot and his Foxboro farewell
  • Brady’s obsession with greatness compared to other all-time great athletes
  • Brady’s late-career endorsement surge
  • What it was like to cover Brady in New England
  • What they said about Tom Brady before the 2000 draft
  • There’s been no greater winner than Brady — there might never be
  • Bucs GM Jason Licht will miss Brady, but has confidence in team

(Photo: Maddie Meyer / Getty Images)

Ajay Rose

Tom Brady’s influence goes way past the NFL — even to the Premier League and beyond

During a press conference at last summer’s European Championship, Cristiano Ronaldo removed Coca-Cola bottles from a table and encouraged people to drink water instead. In response, Tom Brady tweeted, “It’s almost as if the veterans know what they’re doing.”

Like Ronaldo, NFL quarterback Brady has defied the expectations for how long an athlete can compete at the highest level. By prioritising a healthy diet and deploying advanced training techniques, Brady remained an elite competitor well into his 40s. Ronaldo returned to the Premier League this season for a second spell with Manchester United and has scored 14 goals so far, double that of the next-best United player. He turns 37 on Saturday.

On average, quarterbacks play in the NFL for less than five years. Brady, who has just announced his retirement aged 44, played for 22 seasons. He leaves American football as the best quarterback of all time, winning seven Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He has more Super Bowl wins than any single NFL club, such was his dominance.

Continue reading below:

tom brady journey

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The Athletic NFL Staff

An incredible journey

Tom Brady drops a video tribute and thanks all those who have helped him along the way.

Bill Belichick salutes Tom Brady as 'best player in NFL history'

The Patriots coach called his former quarterback "the ultimate competitor and winner" and "the best player in NFL history" in a statement released Wednesday evening.

Gronk congratulates Brady

Rob Gronkowski shared a message for Tom Brady on Wednesday, writing, "You're a legend and always will be." Gronkowski, who retired for one season before returning in 2020, has yet to announce his plans for 2022.

Steve Buckley

The best and worst retirement announcements in Boston sports history

Yes, yes, yes, Brady is football’s greatest quarterback. Case closed on that. It’s just that the retirement announcement wasn’t commensurate with the playing career, what with his dad, Tom Brady Sr., and agent, Don Yee, doing grammatical gymnastics in their quest to shoot down the rumors without denying them. What ended up happening is everyone came to the conclusion Brady was retiring, then sat around waiting for him to get on with it.

To put this into perspective, I’ve come up with a random list of the best and worst retirements in recent Boston sports history. And, yes, I’m including Brady as a Boston athlete even though he closed out his career in Tampa Bay and quarterbacked the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl championship. Sorry, but Brady isn’t exactly Mr. Buc.

Read the full story below:

tom brady journey

The best offenses helmed by Tom Brady

Brady’s best offenses by points per drive:

  • 2007 Patriots (3.19)
  • 2010 Patriots (2.75)
  • 2012 Patriots (2.74)
  • 2011 Patriots (2.69)
  • 2020 Bucs (2.68)

Greg Auman

Bucs will miss Tom Brady, but still optimistic about 2022

"We’re going to have continued success. I’m confident in that,” said Tampa Bay Bucs GM Jason Licht on Tuesday while reacting to the Brady retirement news.

Brady’s absence will make it harder for the Bucs to keep their own top free agents, and they have a deep and talented class potentially hitting the open market. But Licht notes that the solid core of the team is why Brady chose Tampa in the first place.

Read Greg Auman's full report of the conference.

tom brady journey

Heartfelt message

Gisele Bündchen, Tom Brady’s wife, provides a touching tribute to her husband.

Dan Uthman

Brady was the best in close games

Quarterback records in one score games (8 points or less), minimum 100 starts, playoffs included:

  • Tom Brady 107-50 (.682)
  • Peyton Manning 81-40 (.669)
  • Ben Roethlisberger 86-53 (.618)
  • Aaron Rodgers 63-49 (.562)
  • Russell Wilson 55-44 (.555)

Brady in Super Bowls: A five-time MVP and more

Tom Brady threw 21 touchdowns in Super Bowls. That’s more than Russell Wilson (4), Kurt Warner (4), Peyton Manning (3), Eli Manning (3), Aaron Rodgers (3) and Ben Roethlisberger (3) combined.

Eli Manning speaks

Giants fans won't be shy reminding Tom Brady that Eli Manning got the best of him a few times.

But Manning shows the utmost respect here and provides proper context to 22 seasons of excellence: Manning watched Brady win a Super Bowl while he was in college, during his playing career and after he retired.

Jeff Howe

Howe: There’s been no greater winner than Tom Brady — there might never be

Howe: There’s been no greater winner than Tom Brady — there might never be

Tom Brady reset the standard of excellence.

When he entered the NFL in 2000 — with a doughy frame, dimpled smile and bare-minimum expectations — the sports world had no heir to Jordan, and no quarterback had ever been cooler than Joe.

It took but a few years for Brady to alter the landscape. And really, his career was only about a third of the way from its conclusion when it became so obvious Brady was becoming an icon. He was humble in the face of public praise, but Brady wasn’t the least bit bashful about unfurling his self-confidence in front of those who knew him the best.

Longtime Patriots teammate Julian Edelman was working out with his close friend in Los Angeles during the 2013 offseason when he caught his first glimpse of Brady’s maniacal motor. At the time, Edelman hadn’t realized Brady had been keeping a Super Bowl countdown in each of his home gyms — something the quarterback had been doing for years.

Brady, the owner of a modest three Lombardi Trophies, was a title shy of matching Joe Montana. For the Bay Area kids, that was supposed to be as deep as anyone could dream. At least, that’s what Edelman had thought.

“Bro, how crazy is it that you’re going after Montana?” Edelman asked Brady.

“I ain’t going for Montana,” Brady responded. “I’m going for Jordan.”

Read more below.

tom brady journey

Nick Caserio speaks

Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio spent two decades with the Patriots in various coaching and front office roles.

How Brady fared when trailing in the fourth quarter

Tom Brady-quarterbacked teams were 73-43 (.629) when trailing in the fourth quarter, which ranks first among all QBs who played in at least 30 such games since 2000, including postseason.

The only other QB with a winning record in that scenario was Peyton Manning (48-42, .533).

Even if you expand it to Brady trailing by at least seven points entering the fourth quarter, he was 34-22, the only QB with a winning record in that situation.

Tom Brady thanks the Pats

Tom Brady is synonymous with the New England Patriots dynasty.

Teams that got the best of Tom Brady

Including playoffs, Brady didn’t finish with a losing record against any team. But based on just regular season, he finished with losing records against the Seahawks (1-2) and Saints (4-5).

Tom Brady’s stats after turning 40 years old

In his age 44 season, Brady put up MVP level numbers.

Since turning 40, he had a 70-24 record, a 64.9% completion rate, 26,893 passing yards, 7.42 yards per attempt, 191 TDs and 59 interceptions.

Brady's stats since turning 40 include more games won and more yards and touchdowns thrown than any other QB taken in the 2000 draft had during their entire NFL career.

Matthew Fairburn

Tom Brady, still near his peak, leaves with no retirement tour, but he’ll always have that Foxboro farewell

In 2014, Tom Brady told WEEI, “When I suck, I’ll retire.”

But it turns out, he couldn’t wait that long. Brady announced his retirement Tuesday morning at age 44 after 22 seasons in the NFL. And anyone who watched him throw for 5,316 yards and 43 touchdowns in his age-44 knows he didn’t suck. Not even a little bit.

Too often we watch NFL players stumble to the finish line. Brett Favre’s final season was littered with injuries. Dan Marino’s final game was a 62-7 loss to the Jaguars. Steve Young missed most of his last season with post-concussion symptoms. Those seasons didn’t diminish their legacies, but it’s unpleasant to watch legends hang on too long.

Not many players held on as long as Brady did. And it didn’t feel like a second too long, either. It says a lot about Brady’s career that his retirement at age 44 came as a surprise, if only because it was clear he was still among the best players in the league.

Read more below:

tom brady journey

Jalen Ramsey a part of history

It had to be somebody, Jalen.

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Tom Brady’s Journey: From New England to Tampa Bay and The Dynasty

Tom Brady left New England and joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020, ultimately leading the franchise to its second-ever Super Bowl title. In the upcoming documentary "The Dynasty," Brady explains that despite 20 years of competing and doing what he loved in New England, he chose not to sign another contract with the Patriots due to how things had gone. His debut season with the Buccaneers was phenomenal, and he continued to excel in subsequent seasons. After his contract ended in March 2022, Brady signed a one-year, $25 million contract to return to Tampa Bay for one final season.

  • Tom Brady's debut season with the Buccaneers: 65.7% completion, 4,633 passing yards, 40 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and a 102.2 passer rating.
  • Brady's statistics in the 2021 season: 5,136 passing yards, 43 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and a 67.5% completion rate, finishing 13-4 in the regular season. He also finished second in the NFL AP MVP award and third in the NFL OPOY. Brady signed a one-year, $25 million contract to return to Tampa Bay for the 2022 season.
  • In the 2022 season, Brady completed 66.8% of his passes for 4,694 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, nine interceptions, and a 90.7 passer rating, finishing 8-9 and making the playoffs as the No. 4 seed.

There are no clear indications of Brady's plans beyond the 2022 season, but his return to Tampa Bay for one final season sets the stage for potential future developments in his career.

Tom Brady's departure from New England, his success with the Buccaneers, and his decision to return for one final season in 2022 exemplify a remarkable journey that has reshaped the landscape of NFL history.

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The Pewter Plank

Tom Brady finally explains why he left New England for Tampa Bay

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The Wildcat Tribune

Tom brady: the journey of the undisputed goat, and what the future holds for the nfl.

Lucas Quick , Staff Writer | March 8, 2022

Revisiting+Tom+Brady+and+his+accomplisments.

Jia Takayoshi

Revisiting Tom Brady and his accomplisments.

The era has come to an end. Arguably one of the most, if not the most known football icon, Tom Brady has called it a career after 22 seasons. I’m pretty sure it’s without question he’s the greatest player to ever touch the field, yet also had quite the impossible journey. 

This story is a three-way story: not only will we revisit Brady’s success and overall journey in those 22 years, but also we’ll look at the future for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the whole league as well, and who will be the next guy on the spotlight to be considered the best in the league, especially with a new generation of talented players. 

The journey to success

It’s pretty simple to say that Tom Brady wasn’t expected to be a generational quarterback, as some scouters wrote of Brady as, “lacks great physical stature and strength, can’t drive the ball downfield, and poor build.” So it’s fair enough to say Brady was expected to be a stationary backup at best. 

But whatever it was the New England Patriots saw in Brady, they selected him in the sixth round, 199th overall pick, in the 2000 NFL draft. He was the seventh quarterback to get drafted. Now, we wouldn’t see Tom Brady take the field as the starter until the 2001 season, when the Patriots’ former starting quarterback, Drew Bledsoe, got injured and would most likely miss the rest of the season.

Tom Brady would eventually lead the Patriots to the playoffs, at an 11-5 record. So it was already a huge, successful season, as the sixth rounder led the team to the playoffs, but the Patriots would keep on winning and winning. After winning both the divisional and the conference championship (with the help of the controversial tuck rule), the Patriots would head to the Super Bowl to face Kurt Warner and the Rams, also known as the greatest show on turf during the time. 

Although the Rams would come back after being down in the first half, Adam Vinateri would kick the game-winning field goal, giving Tom Brady and the Patriots their first ever Super Bowl title. And this will be a familiar sight for the next few years, as Brady would lead the Patriots to two more Super Bowls, and would lead them to both wins in 2004, in a victory against the Carolina Panthers, and in 2005, in a win against the Philadelphia Eagles. And just like that, the New England Patriots had not only found their franchise QB but also were suddenly a dynasty.

The next decade would be a dry spell for Super Bowl trophies for Brady, as he fell short twice to the New York Giants, but still had historic seasons during that time, including the 2007 season, which arguably was Tom Brady’s best season he put, as the team went 16-0 in the regular season, and the duo of Tom Brady and Randy Moss was one of the most unstoppable duos the league had ever seen. But with a perfect season, it wasn’t the perfect ending, as Eli Manning and the Giants would pull off one of the greatest playoff upsets in NFL history, taking down the Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. Brady would also win another MVP back in 2010. 

Now, we head into the 2015 season, and after a decade since the last Super Bowl trophy landed in Foxboro, the Patriots would head back to Arizona to play the star-studded Seahawks. And with a game with a lot of questioning, as the talk of the infamous “deflate gate” was being spewed after the AFC championship where there was a notice of seeing deflated footballs during the game. But setting that all aside, it was arguably the best Super Bowl I’ve ever seen out of all the Brady Super Bowls I watched when I was actually alive, as the game was back and forth, and the Patriots were down by 10 heading to the fourth, Brady and the Patriots rallied back, including the iconic Malcolm Butler interception, to give Brady a 28-24 win, with a fourth ring added to the collection. 

The deflate gate would become a more looked-at issue, as Tom Brady would be suspended for the first four games of the 2017 season, which was a fair decision, it wasn’t a good idea for the G.O.A.T. to have a fire ignite in him, and the Patriots yet again are in the Super Bowl, against the Atlanta Falcons. 

Without question this was Brady’s most iconic and most impressive Super Bowl win, as of course, the Patriots found themselves down 28-3, which felt like a clinic late in the third quarter. But somehow, not only Brady, but the defense, James White, who had one of the best Super Bowl performances ever by a running back in my opinion, and obviously the improbable catch Julian Edelman made, and the Patriots somehow did the impossible and won 34-28 in overtime in one of the all time great Super Bowls. 

And for one last time, in 2019, Brady would win his final Super Bowl with the Patriots, in a game that was the total opposite of Brady’s last three Super Bowls, including the loss he had against the Eagles in 2018. The game was more of a defensive game and wasn’t Brady’s best performance in a Super Bowl, but he would pull off a 13-3 win over the Rams, making it his sixth ring, and the Patriots second dynasty was born. 

After the 2020 season, with a rare first round exit for the Patriots, as the Titans would knock them out, the Brady era in New England would come to an end. The G.O.A.T. would try to keep his resume on point with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who were the opposite of a successful franchise for over a decade. 

This was a much different environment for Tom Brady, as we genuinely saw him open up as a normal human being, including with the reunion of his teammate, Rob Gronkowski, also joining forces with him. It is simple enough to say that “Tampa Tom” was the best kind of Tom Brady in all of his years. 

His journey to bringing a Super Bowl home to the Buccaneers was much different than his other seasons. Yes, the team was still successful and was an amazing roster Brady had with him, but it was more of the fact of Brady adjusting to having a whole different team, which was something he hasn’t really been put in, except when he tore his ACL in 2008, adjusting to a team who changed after a year. The Buccaneers had some struggles, including being swept by their division rival in the New Orleans Saints; despite this, the Bucs would still finish 11-5, clinching the first wild card spot in the NFC, the first time in Brady’s career where he was in a team who hadn’t made the playoffs by winning the division. 

Brady would arguably have his hardest road to the Super Bowl, as he had to knock off both Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers just before making it to the big stage. But the Buccaneers pulled off the unexpected, as yet again, Tom Brady would still be in the Super Bowl. In what was a highly anticipated matchup against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, the Buccaneers would just dominate the game, with the help of the defense shutting down Mahomes like no other defense has been able to do. Brady would win 31-9, getting his seventh and final ring. 

What a journey it was: it’s nearly impossible to make it brief, especially for someone who won seven Super Bowls, three MVP awards, five Super Bowl MVPs, the all time leader in passing yards and so many more accomplishments. It was the greatest journey by arguably any player, from someone being taken 199th, to being the greatest player of all time. Love him or hate him, he will be the undisputed G.O.A.T., and it’ll be hard to beat it in the future.

Will Tampa tumble without Tom?

It’s safe to say that Brady was the missing piece in that Buccaneers team, as they already had a young and talented roster, and all they needed was a stable quarterback to become a successful franchise. The question is what tactic will Bruce Arians and the Bucs look at: drafting or sticking with a young quarterback, do they have a second year quarterback in Kyle Trask, who they took in the second round last season, or do they pursue in a trade or picking someone up during the free agency? 

Either direction the team heads won’t be too shocking, as there had to be some reason that the Bucs took Kyle Trask in the second round in the draft last year, so it might’ve possibly been on purpose, and they knew Brady would call off his career soon. But if the Buccaneers want to still be a playoff team, I’m not sure if it’s the right direction to head, it’s a huge risk to take and it could go either way. 

Now for free agency this season, there aren’t a whole lot of names for the quarterback, other than Jimmy Garopollo and Aaron Rodgers, but I doubt that the Bucs will pursue Rodgers. But processing a trade with the Niners in acquiring Jimmy Garopollo isn’t a bad idea, as although it doesn’t show off his talent, statistically, Jimmy has had very good success in the last couple of years, including a trip to the Super Bowl, and was a great leader for the Niners. 

Although the pass offense won’t be as great as it has been the last couple of seasons, Garopollo might be the best option for the Buccaneers, only willing if they want to pay that heavy load of money Jimmy is getting right now, but this is the perfect destination for both teams. Now, does this mean the Buccaneers will still be a top team to be a Super Bowl contender? Not exactly, but this can definitely keep the Buccaneers in having success for a few more seasons. 

It’s also a good acquisition as well, because the thought of losing either Mike Evans or Chris Godwin in the future won’t be as complicated, especially with the passing offense not being as big of a threat, and it seems nearly impossible in having both guys having large contracts in the future. But it does get rid of some weight off their shoulders, as now the ball should land in Leonard Fournette’s hands more, and the Bucs still have a very strong offensive line, arguably top five, this all can lead to good success for the team in the future.

Last but not least, who’s next?

The NFL (and my childhood) is losing a large amount of the veteran quarterbacks, as Aaron Rodgers now seems to be the last guy standing, but the NFL has a generational talent of young quarterbacks, many with already success, and others waiting for it to happen. Now we won’t have a G.O.A.T. forever, but there’s still a lot of guys who can be the best in the league. 

For a lot of people, this shouldn’t be without a question, and at the moment it is pretty clear who would most likely be the face of the NFL off quarterbacks, and it’s Patrick Mahomes. With a talented and young quarterback with already huge success under his belt, it’s no doubt that the Chiefs seem to be the next coming dynasty, and we already are witnessing it, but I don’t want to leave out other young guys who can also hold a big part of the spotlight.

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Looking at who’s next, it’s Patrick Mahomes’ future rival, Josh Allen. This kid brings a lot to the floor, has the best arm in the league right now and has been such a great leader to a Bills team who were in a long drought of specifically making the playoffs. I really think Allen will win multiple MVPs in the coming years and should already be recognized as a top five quarterback. There’s only one thing he has to get done which he hasn’t yet, which is to beat the Chiefs in the playoffs.

You also have Lamar Jackson, who’s been the best mobile quarterback we’ve seen since Michael Vick, Mac Jones, who had a great rookie campaign with the Patriots, and Justin Herbert, who has shown what a talented quarterback he is ever since he first went on the field, as well as Kyler Murray, who’s had a nice two seasons and can be a threat as well. 

There also is Joe Burrow, a guy who might show the most competitiveness and grit out of all these quarterbacks in the league, and has taken the NFL by storm this season, and can definitely be the face of the NFL. He has been one of the only guys to manage to beat Mahomes consistently, and there can be matchups we’ll see for the times coming. Seeing the leap he’s taken this season, there’s no question he’ll be one of the greats in the coming years.

Last but not least, there are the future second year players, and obviously the rookies that’ll come to the league in the future, but guys like Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson and Trey Lance, all have the future await them. Next year will be the year we’ll most likely see who will take the biggest leap in their sophomore season, but there shouldn’t be a question that one of these guys will be a reliable guy in the future. 

But for whatever lies and comes in the league for the future, it’s safe to say that the league is in good hands, and we can’t take away the possibility of Brady coming back for a second time? Either way, Brady has made a massive impact and change on the league and is definitely a name that’ll never be forgotten. There’s a lot of pressure for a lot of franchises to fight for the Lombardi trophy now, without Brady being able to run one of the conferences. But it’s crazy to say this is the birth of a new era for the NFL, and it’s anyone’s game.

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Lucas joined the Wildcat Tribune to pursue his dream of writing about sports and covering football games. He joined again this year to be better and to make more podcasts with Rikin. He had absolutely zero...

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Gisele Bündchen Denies She Cheated on Tom Brady and Says Her New Relationship Is 'Very Different'

Brady and Bündchen, who is currently dating jiu-jitsu pro Joaquim Valente, filed for divorce in October 2022

tom brady journey

Michael Loccisano/Getty; Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty

Gisele Bündchen is speaking candidly about rumors surrounding her split from ex-husband Tom Brady — and also opening up about her romance with Joaquim Valente.

In a new interview with The New York Times to promote her cookbook Nourish , the supermodel, 43, opened up about how she did not cheat on Brady, 46, before the pair’s divorce in 2022.

“That is a lie,” Bündchen told the outlet, responding to the accusations that she started a romance with her jiu-jitsu trainer Valente prior to ending things with the retired NFL star.

“I really don’t want to make my life a tabloid,” she added of the allegations. “I don’t want to open myself up to all of that.” 

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

During the interview, Bündchen also acknowledged the unfair criticism she faced after she and Brady ended their relationship.

“This is something that happens to a lot of women who get blamed when they have the courage to leave an unhealthy relationship and are labeled as being unfaithful,” she explained. “They have to deal with their communities. They have to deal with their family."

"Of course for me, it just happens to be a little bit amplified," Bündchen added.

Speaking further about her relationships, Bündchen noted: “No one really knows what happens between two people, only the two people in the relationship.”

As for her latest relationship, Bündchen told the Times , “This is the first time I am seeing someone that was a friend of mine first."

"It’s very different. It is very honest, and it’s very transparent," she continued.

Bündchen and Brady filed for divorce on Oct. 28, 2022, after 13 years of marriage. On the same day, the court declared their marriage as dissolved and "irretrievably broken." 

The pair first met in December 2006 on a blind date set up by mutual friends. They share two children : son Benjamin, 13, and daughter Vivian, 10. (Brady is also dad to son  John "Jack" Edward with ex  Bridget Moynahan .)

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Earlier this month, Bündchen discussed her split in an emotional sitdown interview with Robin Roberts .

During the interview, Bündchen said, "I think there are easier days than others, but I think it’s amazing that the kids … they’re super smart children. They know what they can get away with. So I think it’s natural that [our houses] have different rules and then kids just adapt."

"And they’re going to try to do what they want. And I can only control what I do. And I think for me, now is really about the balance," the supermodel added.

When asked by Roberts, 63, if she'll be able to "open up your heart again to someone,"  Bündchen shrugged, then replied with a small smile, "Where my heart is now is where I am right now. I’m living my truth, and I’m not apologizing for it.”

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VOTE NOW! What is the most iconic jersey number of all-time? We're down to 4 options

tom brady journey

And then there were four.

We recently embarked on a journey to figure out which jersey number in sports is the most iconic of all-time.

We looked at numbers through professional and college baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer and on race cars.

Through carefully vetted research, we narrowed our choices down to 21, then had a panel of 13 experts further whittle that down to 16.

We've now had two votes, from 16 to 8, and from 8 to 4.

From the round of 8 to the final four, we've seen the exit of three athletes that could be considered the greatest of all-time in their respective sport.

Michael Jordan's No. 23 lost to No. 7.

Babe Ruth's No. 3 lost to No. 44.

And Tom Brady's No. 12 lost to No. 42.

Of course, 23, 3 and 12 were worn by many other great athletes, but these three are the ones that perhaps made these particular numbers so sought after throughout sports history.

Here are the remaining 4 numbers, broken down into 2 votes, and athletes associated with those numbers.

(No. 8 seed) 7 vs. (No. 4 seed) 24

7:  Mickey Mantle, Ivan Rodriguez, John Elway, George Halas, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Johnson, Pete Maravich, Cristiano Ronaldo.

No 24:  Jeff Gordon, Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Bonds, Miguel Cabrera, Rickey Henderson, Kobe Bryant, Willie Mays, Rick Barry, Manny Ramirez, Moses Malone, Charles Woodson, Darrelle Revis and Marshawn Lynch.

(No. 10 seed) 44 vs. (No. 6 seed) 42

44:  Hank Aaron, Reggie Jackson, Willie McCovey, John Riggins, Jerry West, George Gervin, Pete Maravich.

42:  Jackie Robinson, Mariano Rivera, Ronnie Lott, James Worthy, Lee Petty, Kyle Larson.

ESPN producing Caitlin Clark special edition magazine

  • Published: Mar. 28, 2024, 8:05 a.m.

Catilin Clark

Iowa guard Caitlin Clark (22) directs the team on offense during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Michigan, Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 106-89. AP Photo/Matthew Putney

  • Geoffrey C. Arnold | The Oregonian/OregonLive

Caitlin Clark’s fame is extending beyond the basketball court.

Clark’s popularity will grow even more after ESPN announced Wednesday it will produce a 96-page special edition magazine on Iowa Hawkeyes’ star that is scheduled to be available on March 29.

Caitlin Clark

“Similar to previous ESPN special edition issues that have featured greats such as Tom Brady, Serena Williams, the late Kobe Bryant, and the late John Madden, the Clark special will primarily draw upon ESPN’s wealth of archival content from throughout her career and explore her inspiring journey in basketball that has led her being considered one of the greatest collegiate players of all time,” ESPN said in a statement.

The magazine will include feature stories from writers and on-air personalities such as Andrea Adelson, Alexa Philippou, Adam Rittenberg, Wright Thompson, Michael Voepel and Rebecca Lobo.

“Caitlin Clark is a signature athlete of our time, and this issue offers the definitive account of her rise to superstardom, with unique insight and authority from ESPN’s amazing collection of journalists,” ESPN executive editor Scott Burton said in a statement.

The network has placed a heavy emphasis on featuring Clark throughout the season and during the current NCAA Tournament. Clark’s popularity is unprecedented in women’s basketball and ESPN has been a driving force behind her rise.

Clark received an offer of $5 million to compete in Ice Cube’s BIG3 league this week, another sign of her growing stardom.

Clark and the No. 1 seed Iowa Hawkeyes will take on No. 4 seed Colorado in a Sweet 16 matchup in the NCAA Tournament on Saturday.

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tom brady journey

Here’s How Tom Brady Playbook Can Help Jason Kelce to Create a $375M Worth Rich Fortune

T he 4th of March, Monday has been all gloomy for the Philadelphia Eagles fans. After 13 long seasons, Jason Kelce confirmed his retirement from the NFL.

However, as the news of his retirement was confirmed, Travis Kelce’s brother had been offered the role of taking over the Monday Nights by ESPN. In such a situation, for Kelce, Tom Brady’s playbook and his $375 million FOX Sports deal can come in handy in ways to explore options before committing to any particular role.     

Brady leads Kelce’s way

As per the reports, ESPN is keen on bringing 36-year-old Kelce into the Monday Night broadcasting team. Throughout his tenure, he earned a reputation as one of the greatest centers in NFL history. He is known for acquiring seven Pro Bowl selections, a Super Bowl championship and All-Pro nods. However, ESPN is eager to help Kelce explore his off-field talents. 

This is the best time when he can draw guidance from Brady’s career. Being the NFL GOAT with seven Super Bowls after retirement Brady did not immediately commit himself to any role. Instead, he took a break for a year to explore what suits him the best. He had put to use these 12 months in trying his luck in owning a minority share in Las Vegas Raiders. 

When it did not come to fruition and got delayed, he then accepted the FOX Sports contract for the lead analyst worth $375 million, which was offered to him back in May 2022. It was not before, January this year, that the TB12 confirmed that he would be replacing Olsen and would be the top color commentator for the 2024 season. Justifying why he took time to seal the deal Brady stated, “These are the things I’m gonna do today and this is how I ultimately want to actualize my potential in this area of my life.”   Similarly, everyone is aware of Kelce’s on-field success, but recently he outperformed himself in the ‘New Heights’ podcast. 

Kelce reigns the broadcasting front

The Kelce brothers have achieved a milestone in their podcasting journey. Their show, ‘New Heights’ till now had been popular among the fans but for the first time, it clinched the prestigious Best Sports Podcast award from The Podcast Academy. It had been less than two months since Travis and Jason Kelce celebrated surpassing 2 million subscribers on YouTube. 

Read More: NFL Delays Tom Brady’s Minority Ownership Bid by 2 Months Amid $350 Million Roadblock

Even though both the Kelce brothers had a devoted fanbase before the podcast, through their new role, they rose to prominence. Jason drew his motivation from the heavy interest of the fans as they dominated the postgame and claimed, “I think it’s fun and guys will keep doing it as long as there’s a thirst from the audience.”  

In case the former Eagles star cracks the code and joins ESPN he will be confirming his spot alongside the host Scott Van Pelt and the panel that includes Marcus Spears, Ryan Clark, Robert Griffin III, Adan Schefter and Michelle Beisner-Buck. However, Kelce is keeping his options open and hinted at being part of the Eagles, “I don’t know what’s going to happen for me, but I do know I still want to be involved in the organization and still want to be a part of it — regardless of what the decision is.”  

As per the reports, besides ESPN, NBC, CBS and Amazon Prime are also pursuing to gain the trust of Jason Kelce. Now the ball is in Kelce’s court regarding whether he wants to try his luck in broadcasting or attempts to explore ownership opportunities in the NFL.  

Also Read: “I Am Straight”: Deion Sanders Reveals Three Big Reasons Why He Never Wants to Be an NFL Head Coach

The post Here’s How Tom Brady Playbook Can Help Jason Kelce to Create a $375M Worth Rich Fortune appeared first on EssentiallySports .

Here’s How Tom Brady Playbook Can Help Jason Kelce to Create a $375M Worth Rich Fortune

At LSU’s pro day with the Patriots in attendance, Jayden Daniels said he wants to be a ‘game-changer’

“I’m a game-changer at the quarterback position,” said LSU's Jayden Daniels. "That’s what I can bring."

BATON ROUGE, La. — Jayden Daniels considered the questions.

If the Patriots take him third overall in next month’s NFL Draft, how will he deal with the impossible bar set by Tom Brady for two decades? Will he be able to rise to the challenge of being anointed the new chosen one? Is he equipped to deal with that sort of pressure?

“I played in Death Valley after Joe Burrow,” Daniels said with a smile after LSU’s Pro Day Wednesday. “I feel like I’m ready for anything.

“I’m a game-changer at the quarterback position. That’s what I can bring to that franchise.”

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Daniels certainly appeared ready Wednesday. A whopping nine Patriots staffers — including de facto general manager Eliot Wolf, coach Jerod Mayo, and offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt — were on hand. And while they ostensibly were there to see all of LSU’s prospects, all eyes were on Daniels, the Heisman Trophy winner who is expected to be taken in the top three.

Daniels threw for the 32 teams in attendance, spinning some terrific passes for teammates Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr., including some impressive deep balls at the end of the workout.

Wednesday marked the end of the on-field portion of the predraft process for Daniels.

“I think we’re at that point now where this was the last kind of check-the-box routine for head coaches, GMs, those decision-makers, as to who is going to be the ones who make the [call] on the quarterback,” said LSU coach Brian Kelly.

“He’ll continue to work out. He’ll continue to have interviews along the way. I think that the hay is in the barn, so to speak, as it relates to the evaluation process of Jayden Daniels. I think he left no stone unturned today with the performance he had out there throwing the football.”

Afterward, Daniels reiterated his feelings regarding a report from early March that said he wasn’t interested in playing for the Patriots.

“Whoever wants to draft me, whoever believes in me. There’s stuff that I can’t control. I can’t control who’s calling my phone on draft day,” he shrugged. “Just the reporters out there, obviously, sometimes you have to call out ‘cap’ [slang for lying] for people, so that’s what I had to do.”

Daniels’s electric skill set and playmaking ability were on full display last season. He finished with a 72 percent completion rate, 3,812 passing yards, 40 touchdowns, and only 4 interceptions. In addition, he had 1,134 rushing yards (8.4 per carry) and 10 rushing touchdowns. Against Florida on Nov. 11, he became the first player in FBS history to record at least 350 passing yards and 200 rushing yards in a game.

The biggest question mark continues to be about his size. Daniels checked in at 6 feet 3⅝ inches, 210 pounds. He took some big hits, including one that knocked him out of the game against Alabama . While LSU coaches and teammates praise Daniels’s toughness, that level of punishment on a relatively slight body continues to be a factor for NFL decision-makers.

“There’s very few questions about [whether he] can’t do this or he can’t do that,” said Kelly. “I think it’s more, ‘Will he slide? Will he get down?’ What I said to them was, ‘You have a guy who’s incredibly tough and competitive.’ No one more so than the guy I saw get hit in the Alabama game, and come back the next week out of concussion protocol and set an NCAA record the next week. That, to me, speaks to his toughness.

“He’s a smart guy. He’s figured this thing out. That’s been really the biggest question. It hasn’t been about, ‘Can he pick up the safety reads? Can he pick up blitz protections?’ They can see that on film. It’s, ‘Coach, will he protect himself?’ And I’m sure he will.”

Talking with Daniels, it sounds like he’s a work in progress when it comes to a personal protection plan.

“Towards the end of the year, I [slid] more. Well, not really sliding, but being smarter,” he said. “It just comes with longevity, you know? Just knowing when the journey is over, getting out of bounds. Getting down.

“There’s a lot of other things that go into it. Stuff that we argue about outside of the building. But it’s on me at the end of the day.”

Kelly was asked if there was anything Daniels needed to perfect if he wanted to achieve success at the next level.

“I think the NFL is all about making that next step, that transition,” he said. “There’s no longer the other piece, the academics. It’s strictly a full-time job. So you have to be able to flip the switch and commit yourself, which he has done here like a pro in the sense of his commitment. Now you have to be able to switch yourself to 100 percent focus on the job. And sometimes that’s a bit of a transition. You’re on your own now, and it’s 100 percent focused on the job.

“I think he’s going to do just fine when it comes to the skill set and the athleticism. It’s just making that transition into an NFL locker room.”

Daniels was set to meet with the Patriots Wednesday night. It would be the second meeting after initially connecting at the combine. What does he want them to know about him?

“Who’s going to invest in me? Who’s going to believe in me?” he asked. “Kind of like what LSU did, on and off the field. As a man. And a player. They probably already did their homework. They know who I am as a person and who I am as a player. Who’s going to believe in me as a man? As a quarterback? On and off the field.”

Whether it’s Foxborough or somewhere else, Daniels sounds good to go.

“I feel like I’ll be ready. There’s a learning curve for everything. I’m just ready to hear my name called. Just go in there ready to learn,” he said. “It’ll be a blessing, wherever I go.”

Christopher Price can be reached at [email protected] . Follow him @cpriceglobe .

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  1. Tom Brady

    Tom Brady (born August 3, 1977, San Mateo, California, U.S.) American football quarterback who led his teams to a record seven Super Bowl victories (2002, 2004, 2005, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021) and was named the game's Most Valuable Player (MVP) five times (2002, 2004, 2015, 2017, and 2021).. While growing up, Brady often attended San Francisco 49ers games to watch the legendary quarterback ...

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    Tom Brady's journey from an overlooked prospect to an NFL legend is a story of perseverance, determination, and excellence. With numerous records, Super Bowl victories, and an unrivaled work ...

  4. A Closer Look at Tom Brady's Journey to Become an NFL Legend

    In this article, we will take a closer look at Tom Brady's remarkable journey and the key factors that have contributed to his success. The Early Years: A Humble Beginning. Born on August 3, 1977, in San Mateo, California, Tom Brady's passion for football was evident from a young age. Growing up in a sports-loving family, he idolized ...

  5. Tom Brady Documentary "The Greatest Journey of All Time"

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    Brady's journey from 199th draft pick to record-breaking NFL quarterback ... Tom Brady warms up in front of the New England Patriots tunnel before a game between his Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the ...

  8. The Early Years of Tom Brady: A Journey from Childhood Dreams to

    By espnplayers. 2023-08-01. Introduction: In the quaint neighborhood of San Mateo, California, a young boy named Tom Brady spent his early years dreaming big and setting the stage for an extraordinary journey. Little did the world know that this charming, determined child would one day become an iconic figure in the realm of American football.

  9. Becoming the G.O.A.T.: The Tom Brady Story (2021)

    Becoming the G.O.A.T.: The Tom Brady Story: Directed by Johannes Guttenkunst. With Charlie Weis, Bill Belichick, Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski. Tom Brady is arguably the greatest quarterback of all time with stats that surpass even Peyton Manning, Joe Montana, and Dan Marino. With seven Super Bowl rings and a legendary 60-plus MPH rocket arm, he is the GOAT.

  10. Brady's journey to the top began a long time ago

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  13. Tom Brady tells his Super Bowl story in ESPN series

    Tom Brady's journey to each of his nine Super Bowls with the New England Patriots will be the subject of an ESPN series released next year. Titled "The Man in the Arena: Tom Brady,'' the nine ...

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    There you have it, the Tom Brady success story that highlights Brady's journey of going from being a benchwarmer in high school, to overcoming the odds of a depth-chart that went seven levels deep to start in college, to being an underrated 6th round draft pick who would go on to become one of greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game of ...

  16. Tom Brady's journey to becoming the GOAT

    And to make the journey to the super bowl even more special Tom Brady defeated the Washington Football Team who had the 7th best defense in the league. Then he led his team to defeat Drew Brees and the Saints who were among the top five best defensive teams in the league.

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  23. ESPN producing Caitlin Clark special edition magazine

    ESPN producing Caitlin Clark special edition magazine. Published: Mar. 28, 2024, 8:05 a.m. Iowa guard Caitlin Clark (22) directs the team on offense during the second half of an NCAA college ...

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  26. LSU Pro Day: Jayden Daniels throws for nine Patriots staffers

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