Wisdom

By Ron Barassi

Ron Barassi is an iconic figure in Australian sporting culture, with a record of personal and team success that is unrivalled. Beyond sport, he has become a greatly respected elder in our broader society.

In Wisdom, he shares with us 31 maxims and quotations that he has collected and which have been integral in forging that reputation. Ron reflects on each and explains their importance in delivering ideas, motivation and inspiration and how he applied them in sport and in life - words of wisdom, indeed. Containing beautiful illustrations from artist James Money, Wisdom is a book to come back to time and again.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Allen & Unwin
• Release date: Dec 1, 2011
• ISBN: 9781742694948

Book preview

2011

When I first came across this quote, in the late 1990s, it resonated with me immediately. I regret not having found it earlier in my life. I have since used it so much that many people think I created it. I wish! In truth it is attributed to an American writer and motivator, William H. Johnsen. It says everything about personal responsibility and self-reliance: two qualities absolutely necessary for success and self-improvement in life.

No matter how much external motivation may encourage us to act, nothing happens unless we do act—as in speak, walk, run, lift, listen, read, overcome tiredness, act courageously, whatever. In other words, nobody else except ourselves can start us on our way.

‘If it is to be, it is up to me.’ I love the simplicity and balance of this phrase; only ten words and every one only two letters. Amazing—and, if acted upon, so, so