Owning a successful business isn’t too different from competing in the Olympic Games. For both, you’ll likely work your entire life to get there and once you do, it’s a battle everyday to stay on top. Entrepreneurs and Olympians fight to overcome immense obstacles, beat out fierce competition and silence the cynics.

As London welcomes the world’s greatest athletes, here’s a look at 10 success secrets from some of the most legendary gold medalists of all time. So sit back, grab your American flag and take in these winning strategies.

Michael Phelps, Swimming

Olympics: 2004, 2008, 2012

Medals: 14 gold, two bronze (so far)

Success secret: Stay laser-focused on your goals, despite what your skeptics may say.

Many experts thought it was impossible for any athlete to win eight gold medals in a single Olympics. Phelps never listened to the naysayers and managed to win gold in all eight events he swam in Beijing. He’s now widely considered the greatest Olympian of all time.

[READ MORE]