Carlos Yulo: Discover his secret to success that anyone could replicate

The Paris Olympics 2024 completed with a historic achievement – a Filipino male gymnast, Carlos Yulo, secured two gold medals in Artistic Gymnastics for Floor Exercise and Vault. His story of hard work and determination was inspired by many people around the world.

While researching what people were searching for about him, I was struck by how many people wanted to know what benefits he would receive for his victory. Indeed, he is one of the most fortunate gymnasts in history, and he deserves all of the money, gifts, incentives, and benefits rewarded to him, given the obstacles he has to overcome on his path to victory.

He has received over $1.7 million worth of rewards, including cash, a condominium, a house and lot, a car, business packages, and a lifetime supply of ramen, ice cream, waffles, and much more. 

I can’t deny that I’m curious about his awards, especially since he achieved a historic victory for the Philippines, of which we are so proud. However, I’d be more interested in how he achieved it. What’s his secret to success? What makes him special?

I watched a documentary video about him, and his training. One factor significantly influenced his success and brought him to the Olympic level.

Carlos Yulo was exposed to gymnastics when he was six years old. At the age of 12, he watched the London Olympics and saw Kohei Uchimura, who is widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time. He was impressed by Uchimura’s performance and aspired to be an Olympian.

He knew gymnastics were his thing. He is enthusiastic, competitive, and excels at it. He has won numerous international competitions.

Carlos’ ultimate goal is to win a gold medal in the Olympics. He competed in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics but did not reach the podium. He was angry at himself. He cried for his defeat.

In the Philippines, we do not have the best trainers or facilities for our athletes to practice and compete internationally. He was lucky to work with a Japanese coach named Munehiro Kugimiya. He was Carlos’ greatest coach, and he played a significant role in achieving his dream of being an Olympic athlete.

Coach Kugimiya recognized Carlos’ potential for success in gymnastics. He understands that if Carlos trains sincerely and has self-confidence, he can compete in the Olympics and win a medal.

Given the conditions in the Philippines, Carlos’ coach decided to bring him to Japan for training under a scholarship program. Coach Kugimiya believed that if Carlos became a famous athlete, he could be an inspiration to all the Filipino kids.

Carlos struggled while living and training in Japan, and he nearly gave up on his career. His quiet and withdrawn personality, lack of self-confidence, and fear of making mistakes impede his progress in training.

When he fails to do a particular element, he simply gives up rather than attempting it again. He frequently believes that he cannot achieve it and gives up easily. He trains every day but does not give his best.

Coach Kugimiya knew that for him to reach the highest level, he needed to overcome his weaknesses, specifically his mental weakness. The coach is working with him to improve his mental strength.

Mental Toughness is the one thing Carlos worked on that helped him achieve his peak performance. This is the missing piece that made him reach his ultimate goal in gymnastics.

This is what sets champions apart from the rest, and anyone can do it with consistent practice. After he trained in his mental aspect, his performance significantly improved. He has far more control over his thoughts, including what to focus on and what to let go of.

His moods and emotions are more regulated. He has been resting well and has achieved a better work-life balance. He is more positive, happier, and more self-aware. He has developed an inner confidence that he has what it takes to be an Olympian.

After winning two Olympic Gold medals in the 2024 Paris Olympics, Carlos achieved his ultimate goal. Coach Kugimiya also accomplished his goal of bringing out the best in Carlos, helping him become a renowned athlete and an inspiration to all Filipino children.

As I watched Carlos’s recent video, I noticed that he is more confident, and he shared some great lessons that could inspire everyone. Carlos believes that growth comes from challenges and hardships.

He said that in everything you do, pour your whole heart, your entire being into it. Show up consistently. Keep going, no matter how small it is. Mistakes are okay as long as you keep trying, no matter how you feel. That already shows progress and achievements. And know that you deserve what you have because you prepare and work hard for it.

Improving is tough and the process is not always enjoyable. Do not give up. Trust on the process, to the coach, and to God.

— Carlos Yulo

Mental toughness is the best-kept secret of champions and peak performers. It is not just for athletes, but for everyone in all walks of life who wants to overcome obstacles, achieve goals, and perform at their best, even in challenging situations.

I would like to end this article with an excerpt from the book, The Champion’s Mind (How Great Athletes Think, Train and Thrive) by Jim Afremow. Check the link here to get the big ideas of the book.

Have the boldness to pursue what you want most in both sports and life. If you have the courage to start, you will have the courage to finish. Make ‘Think gold and never settle for silver’ your life’s mantra and put it into daily action. Fully unfurl the potential of your life — both on and off the field — because your life is unique. Thinking this way is the ultimate victory for any champion. Now you are ready to take the champion’s honor pledge:

By my efforts, I will keep my body strong, my mind focused,

and my determination unstoppable.

I resolve to compete in the present with power,

purpose and passion.

I know that every sore muscle and drop of sweat

is an investment in excellence.

I strive to be my best, nothing less, and joy

will come from my striving.

True, pain always comes, but I can endure it.

My body wins when my mind refuses to give in.

In defeat, I will reflect and learn.

In victory, I will savor the glorious moment.

Tomorrow, my efforts always begin anew.

Cheers to Carlos Yulo and Coach Kugimiya!!! Congratulations!! Omedetou Gozaimasu (おめでとうございます) !! 🥳💪🤸

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