Taking Action and Committing to Constant Improvement: Lessons from ILCA Gold Medalist Matt Wearn

My son Charles Allen Toyn photographed here with Matt Wearn in 2021

Success isn’t just about dreaming big; it's about putting in the work and constantly striving to get better. This idea really hits home when you look at the journey of ILCA (Laser) gold medalist Matt Wearn. His story is a perfect example of two key principles from Jack Canfield’s Success Principles: Principle 13, "Take Action," and Principle 20, "Commit to Constant and Never-Ending Improvement." 

The Medal race for the Dinghy Men's competition was full of delays; first delayed by a day due to the weather (no wind). Then when the race was held there was a general recall the first time it started, meaning too many boats were over the start so they all had to restart so another delay.

Then the second time the race started about three quarters of the way through it was abandoned due to lack and/or shifting winds. At this point we heard Matt Wearn's frustrations - he was just moments away from securing the gold medal for a second time.

After a further delay due to weather, the race finally was completed with Matt Wearn first over the line and the only sailor to achieve two consecutive gold medals for this class boat and the third Australian to win gold. Congratulations Matt!

Who was by his side to support him to refocus on the goal at hand, to win gold? His coach, Rafa Trujillo.

This is an extraordinary achievement. Achieved with an Olympic coach by this side to support him through to achieve success. Reported by the Olympics

You often can't achieve at this level on your own. This message my son worked out back in 2021: 

A Meeting that Sparked a Dream

Back in 2021, my son, Charles Allen Toyn, who’s an aspiring youth sailor from Western Australia, got the chance to meet Matt Wearn right after he won his gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics. Holding that medal was a game-changer for my son. Suddenly, the dream of competing in the Olympics felt real and possible. This moment sparked a new level of determination and commitment in him, showing just how powerful it is to take immediate action towards your dreams.

Principle 13: Take Action

Success isn’t about luck; it’s about taking deliberate and consistent actions. Matt Wearn’s path to Olympic gold is a perfect example of this and right up to the final moments. Let's dive into how Matt’s journey can inspire us all to take action and keep improving and overcome hurdles and obstacles.

1.  Setting Clear Goals: Matt didn’t just daydream about being an Olympic champion. He set specific goals and mapped out a clear path to reach them. He is the third Australian to win gold in this class boat for 3 consecutive Olympics. But not one single Australian sailor has won 2 consecutive golds. He articulated this goal and planned out with his coach how to prepare to achieve this.
2.   Daily Practice and Discipline: Sailing success comes from hard work and a disciplined routine. Matt’s daily practice, would focus on improving his technique, speed, and endurance. My son works with Olympic and World champion coaches that know what it takes to succeed at this level of competition.
3.   Overcoming Challenges: Taking action also means dealing with obstacles head-on. Matt faced tough weather conditions and fierce competitors but also debilitating health issues battling long COVID for 12 months after his 2021 Olympic gold. 

“I’m one of the lucky people back doing what I do,” he says. “Now I feel fitter and stronger than I ever have in my career. People expect us to bring home gold medals now. Now, we’ve done it three times in a row with three different sailors is really special. To continue that and bring home a fourth would be really special.

Matt Wearn

For my son, meeting Matt reinforced the importance of taking action. Inspired by Matt’s story, he’s become more focused and committed to his sailing practice, knowing that every small step today leads to future success.

Principle 20: Commit to Constant and Never-Ending Improvement

Success isn’t a one-time thing; it’s a continuous journey of learning and growing. Matt Wearn’s quest for a second gold medal shows this principle in action.

1.  Continuous Learning: Even after reaching the top, Matt is always looking to improve. He studies his performances, seeks feedback from his coach, and keeps refining his techniques.
2.  Adaptability and Innovation: The sailing world is always changing with new techniques and strategies. Matt stays on top of these advancements and integrates them into his training.
3.  Mental and Physical Conditioning: Success requires both mental and physical strength. Matt works with coaches and mentors to keep pushing his limits, showing that there’s always room to get better.

It hasn't quite sunk in yet,” said Matt Wearn. “I was dreaming about one gold medal for such a long time, but the last three years been dreaming about going back-to-back and it's just phenomenal. The fact that no-one else has done it before probably shows how special it is.

For my son, this principle has been a game-changer. Inspired by Matt’s relentless drive for excellence, he’s adopted a mindset of constant improvement, always looking for ways to enhance his skills and strategies.

Moving Forward: Inspired by a Champion

Meeting Matt Wearn with fellow members of Fremantle Sailing Club wasn’t just inspiring for my son; it was a catalyst for taking action and committing to excellence. By embracing the principles of taking action and committing to constant improvement, my son is on a path of growth and success, with his eyes set on the Olympics.

Reflecting on Matt Wearn’s journey and the lessons from Jack Canfield’s Success Principles, it’s clear that the road to success is all about taking deliberate actions and continuously striving to get better. Whether it’s in sailing, business, or any other field, these principles are a powerful guide for anyone chasing their dreams and goals.

I invite you to join me on a 5 day challenged (requiring approximately 10 to 30 minutes a day) to learn a proven process on how to succeed and work on your number goal right now. Join me on the 5 Day Success Challenge