DON’T FOCUS ON WINNING
By leadership author and keynote speaker Ross Shafer
Meet John Lloyd: A Life Fueled by Curiosity, Not Competition
In this inspiring video, Ross Shafer introduces us to his long-time friend, John Lloyd—a man whose relentless pursuit of excellence offers a powerful alternative to traditional ideas of success. Rather than focusing on winning, fame, or fortune, John has spent his life honing a mindset of continuous personal growth. He’s the kind of person who doesn’t chase accolades but consistently ends up at the top of whatever field he enters.
Humble Beginnings, Extraordinary Work Ethic
John’s story begins modestly. Raised in a family without wealth or status, he learned early on that if he wanted something, he had to earn it. This mindset, instilled by hardworking parents, pushed him to be resourceful and disciplined. He became a champion diver at the University of Oregon, not because he dreamed of being #1, but because he dedicated himself to mastering the craft. That same work ethic carried him through an entry-level job in the pharmaceutical industry to become one of the industry’s top consultants.
Mastery Across Disciplines: From Golf to Gardening
But John Lloyd’s achievements don’t stop there. At 50 years old, he taught himself how to play golf—and became a near-scratch golfer. He’s also a skilled photographer, gardener, motorcycle enthusiast, and global traveler. Each new pursuit is taken on with the same internal drive: not to win, but to learn, grow, and avoid boredom. His latest endeavor? Competing in national-level swimming competitions at age 63, where he ranks 59th in the country out of more than 400,000 competitors.
The Secret? Focus on Process Over Outcome
What’s striking is John’s approach to life: he never sets out to be the best. Instead, he asks, “What do I need to do right now to get better?” Whether that means reading more, training harder, or simply being present in the moment, John’s process-oriented mindset consistently leads to excellence. He lives fully in the present, refusing to be distracted by long-term expectations or obsessed with outcomes. That counterintuitive strategy—focusing on effort over results—is what sets him apart.
Do What You Love—Even If You’re Starting from Scratch
When Ross asks John what advice he would give young people trying to find direction in life, his answer is simple but profound: do what you love. Don’t waste time chasing a career or life path that doesn’t bring you joy. Even if you have no experience or proven talent, pursue your passion with intensity and discipline. Try and fail—then try again. Because success, in John’s world, is about mastery and meaning, not medals or money.
Redefining Success: Progress, Not Perfection
John’s story is a reminder that fulfillment doesn’t come from external validation—it comes from the satisfaction of knowing you’ve given your best. His commitment to excellence is self-driven. He’s not motivated by rankings or recognition. He’s motivated by the thrill of learning, the challenge of growth, and the joy of doing something well.
A Masterclass in Living with Purpose
Ross Shafer’s interview with John Lloyd is more than a profile of an accomplished man—it’s a masterclass in living with purpose. It challenges viewers to reconsider their own definitions of success and to adopt a mindset that values progress over perfection. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, an athlete, a student, or someone simply looking for more meaning in your day-to-day life, John’s story is a compelling case for shifting your focus inward and committing to doing your best right now.
👉 Watch the full video interview to gain insight into John’s extraordinary mindset and discover how letting go of the need to win might be the secret to reaching your own potential.
🎥 Click here to explore more motivational videos from Ross Shafer on YouTube.