5 most valuable tips on self-improvement by Gregory Burns

Gregory Burns is a distinguished American athlete, artist, author, and motivational speaker. Renowned for his achievements as a competitive swimmer, he represented the USA in multiple Paralympic Games from 1992 to 2000, securing an impressive tally of two gold, two silver, and one bronze medal. Beyond sports, Burns expresses his creativity through painting, enriching the world with his artistic vision.He also shares his inspiring journey and wisdom as an author and motivational speaker, captivating audiences with his resilience and accomplishments. As a member of Art of the Olympians, Burns continues to inspire through both his athletic and artistic endeavors. Here's an excerpt of an exclusive interview with him.
1. You've achieved success in athletics, painting, writing, and motivational speaking. What initially drew you to pursue such diverse passions?
I think that contracting polio as a child instilled in me a deep curiosity and a desire to explore the world in all its dimensions. Each of my pursuits—athletics, painting, writing, and motivational speaking—offers a unique way to express myself and connect with others. Athletics taught me discipline and resilience, painting allows me to share emotions and tell stories visually, writing provides a medium to convey my experiences and insights, and motivational speaking gives me the chance to inspire and uplift others. Together, they have become a holistic approach to living a fulfilling and impactful life.
2. Tell us in detail about your India visit and how do you plan to engage yourself.
During my visit, I plan to immerse myself in the rich natural, cultural and spiritual tapestries of India. It’s truly exciting to revisit the Himalayas and Goa where I experienced and learned so much so many decades ago. These unique Marriott Bonvoy Moments planned for Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas and Westin Goa will combine the magnificence of nature and wellness awareness with a dash of culture and culinary exploration. In Rishikesh, I will participate in yoga and meditation sessions, while also conducting workshops to share my experiences and insights. In Goa, I’ll embrace the local lifestyle, exploring its vibrant arts scene with others. My goal is to learn from these diverse environments and give back by sharing with others.
3. Managing such varied pursuits requires focus and planning. How do you maintain a healthy balance between your creative and athletic endeavors?
Balancing multiple pursuits requires a structured yet flexible approach. I prioritize my time and activities so that I have dedicated periods of focus. Regular physical activity is also integral to my routine, as it keeps me energized and mentally sharp, acting as a form of meditation. Additionally, I try to practice mindfulness and self-reflection to stay aligned with my passions and ensure that each endeavor receives the attention it deserves.
4. Your athletic career likely instilled discipline and perseverance. How have these qualities translated into your artistic process as a painter?
The discipline and perseverance honed through my athletic career have been invaluable in my artistic journey. Painting requires patience, thinking outside of the box, and a willingness to push through creative blocks. Just as in sports, where consistent effort leads to improvement, my dedication to refining my artistic skills over the past 4 decades has allowed me to develop a unique style and voice. The resilience I learned in athletics helps me navigate challenges and stay committed to my creative vision even when there are no cheerleaders to encourage me.
5. Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," is a place of deep spirituality and reflection. How do you think this environment will influence your work, be it athletic training, artistic expression, or writing?
Rishikesh's serene and spiritually charged environment is incredibly inspiring. I’m also interested in walking in the footsteps of the Beatles to see where they were and what inspired them to make some of their best music. For my artistic expression, the natural beauty and spiritual energy of Rishikesh will hopefully influence my paintings, infusing them with a sense of peace and introspection.
6. Do you have any upcoming projects or goals you'd like to share, be it a new athletic challenge, an art exhibition, or a forthcoming book?
Yes, I’m excited to share that I will be working on a few paintings that will be inspired by our residencies with Westin Himalayas and Westin Goa which will stay behind as ‘traces’ of what I am sure will be very meaningful experiences.
7. Rishikesh attracts people seeking self-discovery and inner peace. How do you hope to impact the local community during your visit, whether through workshops, talks, or artistic expression?
I will be leading several experiences with some of the guests. These sessions aim to empower individuals to discover their inner strengths and reengage with the creative right side of their brain.
8. Goa is also another destination known for its relaxed or susegaad lifestyle. How are you planning on making the most of your visit there?
In Goa, I plan to embrace the local lifestyle by slowing down and fully immersing myself in the local culture. I’ll spend time exploring the art museum, vibrant markets, and diverse culinary scene. The relaxed atmosphere of Goa is perfect for reflection and rejuvenation, which I hope will fuel my future projects.
9. Looking back on your multifaceted career, what are some of the most valuable lessons you've learned that you would share with your younger self?
Reflecting on my journey, I would encourage my younger self to not be afraid to go forward without knowing all the answers, trusting that the way will be clear once the next fork in the road is reached. When I was backpacking around India in my 20’s, I never had a hotel or train reservation, and everything seemed to work out okay. It's important to remain open to new experiences and never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. I’ve learned that persistence and resilience are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Lastly, taking life just one step as a time and maintaining a balance between work and personal life is crucial for sustained mental and physical well-being.
10. What are those 5 most valuable tips on self-improvement that you would like to share with our readers?
Here are my top five tips for self-improvement:
⦁ Keep Walking: Define the goal and keep moving forward one step at a time.
⦁ Stay Disciplined: Consistency and discipline are crucial in making progress in any endeavor.
⦁ Embrace Family and Friends: Keep nurturing these most important relationships.
⦁ Prioritize Well-being: Take care of your physical and mental health to maintain a positive outlook.
⦁ Inspire and Be Inspired: Continuously seek new knowledge and experiences to broaden your horizons and inspire yourself and others.