For me, I like to imagine being successful. I like to imagine the end, which is success. I envision it, where I can actually see it happening. Going into the ring, seeing the fight happen, seeing me winning that belt, seeing me back in my dressing room celebrating with a slice of cake, which I always had. And the same with meetings. I do prepare though; that confidence comes from preparation, because that fear is in the back of your head of not doing well, of not saying the right thing or having the right information. That's where the preparation comes in for me.
Laila AliWhen I entered the sport of boxing I wanted to be one of the best and be undefeated. And I was able to attain that, not just one championship title, but four.
Laila AliIf you're passionate about something, you believe in it, then you have to be consistent. And you have to put in the hard work that it takes to be successful.
Laila AliI'm inspired on a daily basis by my personal goals. I make it a habit to write down what it is that I want to accomplish. And I check that list. I keep myself accountable. My kids inspire me, of course. My ambition inspires me. I want to win at everything that I do in life. I understand that it takes hard work to reach my goals and I'm prepared to do it. My confidence comes from preparation. So I spend a lot of my time preparing.
Laila AliSometimes if you don't physically attempt something, you don't realize how sick to your stomach or how hard it is.
Laila AliThinking about the women that you know: your friends, sisters, mothers, we know that we are kind of stereotyped. You like sports, you're a tomboy. There are all of these labels ,which is natural for us as a society to do, but it's just really about reminding women of the power that we have inside of us and that you can do anything you put your mind to. You don't want to get stuck. You don't want to get stuck in your own mind.
Laila Ali