“Have faith in yourself, but also have faith in faith.” — Phil Knight
Recently, I finished reading Shoe Dog, the story behind Nike – and honestly, what a book. I won’t lie, I was pleasantly surprised by Phil Knight’s journey. From running the streets of Oregon to his stories about his legendary coach and partner, Bowerman – it’s incredible how passion drives someone to achieve extraordinary things.
Even for me, there are moments when an idea pops into my head and I just can’t stop thinking about it. It feels like the angels are behind me – pushing, guiding, nudging me to bring that idea into fruition. All you really need is to take the first step.
“The cowards never started, and the weak died along the way—that leaves us.”
That line hit hard.
Phil borrowing money from his father just to explore the world – and still packing his Brooks Brothers suit because you never know – almost feels like manifestation in action. Maybe he already believed he would meet Mr. Onitsuka. Faith shows up in strange, practical ways. And I think that’s step one in achieving anything great (I haven’t done it yet – but I believe I will 😄).
The book itself is a rollercoaster and teaches so many subtle lessons. Running a company is anything but simple – and more than anything, it’s about people. Nike survived because of its people: Phil, Bowerman, Woodell, Hayes (“The Buttfaces”). They weren’t just employees; they were family. That culture is what helped them survive impossible moments.
What struck me deeply was how often truth saved Phil. Whether it was admitting he peeked into Mr. Kitami’s bag to learn about distributors before court, or being completely honest with Mr. Ito about Nike’s finances – transparency kept the company alive. There were countless moments when everything could have collapsed.
Truthfulness and self-belief matter.
This made me think: maybe I should write down my own tenets – principles that matter to me and won’t change throughout my life. In the end, that’s what separates the good from the great, right? Principles.
Hard work is another undeniable truth. Nothing comes easy. Luck matters, yes – but the harder you work, the better your tao. Phil doesn’t say “never give up.” Sometimes, it is okay to give up. Just don’t stop. Never stop. Don’t let that inner fire fade – because it can do wonders.
So what did I really learn from this book?
A lot – but more than steps or strategies, it’s about mindset. Phil Knight followed his soul plan with a certain mentality. I need to do the same – in my own way. Everyone has a story. You just have to live yours with gusto.
Just do it, I guess. 😄
I’m inspired. Energized. Curious. I’ll sit with these thoughts a bit longer – and maybe pick up another story of someone who built something meaningful, just to see how life unfolded for them and what I might learn.
Shoe Dog is definitely a must-read. Everyone will take something different from it – but you’ll take something.
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