When first starting to work with someone you try to get them in the same mindset that you were in when you were successful, and I realized the best thing you can ever do is realize that they are not you. They have a different persona and mindset, and you have to figure out what works best within your communication with that athlete.

You have to be able to be a good loser. You have to be okay knowing you're going to fail every day in something without getting mad and upset.

I got interested in decathlon because a coach that I had was a big fan of Bruce Jenner, and he just saw the ability in me - but when it came down to it, I knew my best chance at a college scholarship would be in track and field.

Try everything, because you're never sure what you're going to be great at.

I think what my parents did was perfect. They were strict, concerned about my safety and held me back just a little.

Breaking the world record in '92 was a very special personal moment, but I'd say my favorite moment as a decathlete was winning the Olympic gold medal.

There is nothing better than having a personal-best day, being in shape and pushing myself beyond my own limits.