Episode 028: The Windshield vs Rearview Mirror: Why Forward Thinking Beats Dwelling on the Past

What if the secret to a successful future lies in where you choose to focus today?

In this episode, we explore a powerful lesson from Jackie Joyner-Kersee, named by Sports Illustrated as the greatest female athlete of the 20th century. Her quote about preparation over regret offers timeless wisdom for anyone ready to level up their life.

🎯 Episode Highlights:

• The windshield vs rearview mirror philosophy
• Why dwelling on past achievements keeps you stuck
• Jackie's journey from East St. Louis to Olympic greatness
• Overcoming severe asthma through strategic preparation
• How to work backwards from your future goals
• The art of letting go to level up

⏰ Key Timestamps:

01:00 - The car analogy that changes everything

05:02 - Working backwards from your future self

06:22 - Jackie's incredible story begins

10:03 - The 5-10 minute crying rule

11:37 - This week's challenge revealed

13:41 - Jackie's post-athletic legacy

💡 This Week's Challenge:

Based on your goals, what ONE thing has to change today to become that person or accomplish that goal in the future? Host Alicia Thomas shares her own writing journey as an example.

🔥 Why This Matters:

Jackie's heptathlon world record from 1988 still stands today - proof that proper preparation creates lasting impact. Her story reminds us that greatness lives within us, and we all stand on the shoulders of those who came before.

📚 Resources:

• Knowledge Gumbo Newsletter: https://aliciatsays.link/gcsub
• Ecamm Live (Recording Platform): https://aliciatsays.link/ecamm

About Knowledge Gumbo:

We mix together timeless wisdom and thought-provoking stories using quotes, sayings, proverbs, and book passages, primarily by Black women. Because our stories and voices matter.

💬 Connect:

Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Like and subscribe on YouTube. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it - there's always room for one more at the table.