Striving for Greatness: Lessons from GOATs
In every field, there are those rare individuals who rise above the rest, whose achievements set the standard for greatness. Whether in politics, sports, music, or the arts, these icons inspire us not only with their talents but also with the qualities that make them truly exceptional.
As communicators, we may not be striving to become the greatest of all time (GOAT) in the same way as an Olympic athlete or a world leader, but there is much we can learn from those who have reached the pinnacle of their respective fields.
The Power of Oratory: Learning from the Great Communicators
While many of us prefer to remain behind the scenes as strategists and specialists, there is an expectation that we are above average when it comes to public speaking. I have always appreciated a well-written and delivered presentation or speech. In the realm of political oratory, few have captured the imagination and hearts of people quite like Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama. Reagan, known as "The Great Communicator," mastered the art of connecting with audiences through simple yet profound language, often infused with optimism and patriotism. His famous "Tear Down This Wall" speech in Berlin remains a defining moment in the Cold War, exemplifying his ability to inspire and challenge in equal measure.
Barack Obama, on the other hand, brought a different kind of eloquence to the political stage. His speeches are characterized by themes of hope, unity, and the power of collective action. From his keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention to his 2008 victory speech and the recent DNC, Obama’s words have consistently reflected a deep understanding of the American spirit, the importance of inclusion, and the need for resilience.
Of course, we can't discuss great orators without mentioning Abraham Lincoln. His Gettysburg Address, though brief, has endured as one of the most powerful speeches in American history. Lincoln’s ability to convey the profound significance of the Civil War and the principles of liberty and equality in just a few short sentences is a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted communication.
On the other side of the aisle, we also find Martin Luther King Jr., whose "I Have a Dream" speech is one of the most iconic in history. King’s use of vivid imagery, moral authority, and an unyielding commitment to justice continues to resonate across generations. His speeches remind us that the greatest communicators often speak not just to the present, but to the future, inspiring change that outlives their own time.
Beyond Words: The GOATs of Sports and the Arts
While communication is my domain, I find that the principles of greatness transcend any single field. Consider Simone Biles, whose performances at the Olympics have redefined what is possible in gymnastics. Biles is not only a physical marvel but also an example of mental resilience and the importance of self-care. Her decision to prioritize her mental health during the Tokyo Olympics sparked global conversations about the pressures faced by athletes, reminding us that true greatness also involves knowing when to step back.
In the world of music, we look to legends like my personal favorite Bruce Springsteen, whose storytelling through song has made him a voice of multiple generations. Springsteen’s lyrics often reflect the struggles, hopes, and dreams of the American working class, capturing the essence of a shared experience in a way that is both personal and universal.
Similarly, in the arts, figures like Pablo Picasso have left an indelible mark on history. Picasso’s innovative approaches to form and expression challenged the conventions of his time, paving the way for new movements in art. His relentless pursuit of creative expression, even in the face of criticism, is a powerful lesson in the importance of staying true to one's vision.
What We Can Learn from the GOATs
So, what can communicators and professionals of all kinds learn from these GOATs? The first lesson is the importance of authenticity. Whether it’s Ronald Reagan speaking from the heart, Simone Biles staying true to herself, or Bruce Springsteen singing about the realities of life, the greatest of all time are those who remain authentic to their values and their message. The same goes for Katie Ledecky in the pool, whose focus and consistency are unmatched, or Caitlin Clark on the basketball court, whose passion and skill shine through in every game.
Another key takeaway is the power of perseverance. Greatness isn’t achieved overnight. It’s the result of years of dedication, hard work, the willingness to push through challenges, and often seeking help from a coach or mentor. Abraham Lincoln’s perseverance through the darkest days of the Civil War, Martin Luther King Jr.’s unwavering commitment to civil rights, and Oksana Masters’ incredible journey to becoming a Paralympic champion all show us that true greatness often requires enduring incredible hardships.
Finally, we learn the value of innovation. The GOATs are not just the best at what they do—they are often pioneers who have redefined their fields. Picasso’s contributions to art, Biles’ reimagining of what’s possible in gymnastics, and Obama’s use of modern digital platforms to reach voters all reflect the importance of being forward-thinking and willing to break the mold.
Striving for Our Own Greatness
As communicators, we may not be delivering State of the Union addresses or performing on the world stage (yet), but we have the opportunity to be great in our own right. By learning from and being inspired by those who have reached the pinnacle of their fields, we can strive to bring authenticity, perseverance, and innovation into our work. And perhaps, in doing so, we too can leave a lasting impact on those we seek to reach.
In the end, greatness is not about being the best; it’s about being the best version of ourselves, consistently striving to make a difference. Whether we look to the GOATs of the past or those making history today, we can all find inspiration to reach higher, work harder, and dream bigger.
