I listen to a lot of TED talks and motivational speakers.

Hear the humble confession of Jordan Burroughs, warrior of the wrestling mat and champion of perseverance: “I listen to a lot of TED talks and motivational speakers.” Though it may seem a simple admission, these words carry the strength of hidden wisdom. For even the mighty know that greatness is not forged alone. The strongest among us do not rely solely on their own fire, but draw warmth from the flames of others. In these talks and speeches, Burroughs finds the voices of guides—echoes of courage, resilience, and determination that sharpen his will as steel sharpens steel.

From the beginning of time, men and women have sought wisdom from those who walked before them. The ancients sat at the feet of philosophers, absorbing their words as seeds of strength. Warriors listened to elders before battle, poets listened to sages before weaving their verse. Burroughs, a champion of our own era, follows this same eternal path. By listening to motivational speakers, he acknowledges that the journey of greatness is not traveled in silence, but in dialogue with those whose voices inspire us to rise higher.

Consider the tale of Alexander the Great, who carried with him the works of Homer wherever he went. Before campaigns, he would recite passages of the Iliad, drawing strength from the story of Achilles. Those ancient words were his TED talks, his motivational speeches. They lit within him the fire to conquer worlds. Likewise, Burroughs seeks voices of strength—not from Homer, but from modern storytellers who share their struggles, their failures, their triumphs. It is the same principle: the heart is fueled by the wisdom of others.

There is also humility in this confession. For Burroughs, though a champion, admits that he still seeks encouragement, still hungers for guidance. This is the mark of true greatness—not the arrogance of believing oneself complete, but the wisdom of knowing one must always be a learner. He listens not because he is weak, but because he is strong enough to recognize the power of continual growth. Motivational voices become his allies, reminding him of his purpose when doubt creeps in, restoring his focus when fatigue presses upon him.

The meaning here is clear: motivation is not a luxury, but a necessity. Just as the body requires food, so too does the spirit require nourishment. When we listen to those who inspire, we are not merely entertained; we are fed, strengthened, and equipped for the battles we face. Burroughs, in his discipline, shows us that even the most disciplined warriors must guard the heart, for it is the wellspring of action. Without motivation, strength fades. With it, even the weary can endure.

What lesson, then, shall we take from these words? Seek out voices that lift you higher. Fill your ears not with noise, but with wisdom. Read the words of the great, listen to the testimonies of those who have struggled and triumphed, and let their fire kindle your own. When despair approaches, let the voice of another remind you of your power. When distraction tempts you, let their example return you to your path. For as Burroughs has shown, to listen to motivational speakers is not weakness, but strength—the deliberate act of feeding the soul.

And what actions must we follow? Choose daily to nurture the mind and spirit. Listen to talks that challenge you, surround yourself with stories of courage, speak with those who inspire you. Do not wander aimlessly in the silence of despair, but actively seek the voices that call you back to greatness. In doing so, you too may rise like Burroughs, prepared not only with strength of body, but with strength of spirit.

Thus, let it be remembered: the greatest among us still listen, still learn, still seek motivation. Jordan Burroughs teaches us that inspiration is the armor of the heart. Wear it daily, seek it constantly, and let it guide you toward victory in the battles of life.