IT’S NOT OVER UNTIL I WIN : EMBRACING THE UNBREAKABLE RESILIENCE INSPIRED BY —LES BROWN

 

It’s Not Over Until I win

Les Brown is a master of igniting the fire within, urging us to push beyond limitations and never surrender on our dreams. One of his most resonant and empowering messages is the unwavering declaration: “It’s not Over until I win!” This isn’t just a statement; it’s a philosophy for navigating life’s inevitable challenges and a testament to the power of relentless perseverance.

This mantra embodies the spirit of never giving up, no matter the setbacks, the obstacles, or the voices of doubt that might try to convince you to quit. It speaks to the core of human resilience and the unwavering belief in your ability to achieve your desired outcome.

This phrase “It’s not over until I win” is more than just a motivational slogan— it’s a mindset, a lifestyle, a declaration of war against self-doubt and mediocrity. 

Let’s drive deep into what this message truly means.

1. The Power of an Unyielding Mindset 

Les Brown understood that success is rarely a linear path. It’s often filled with twists, turns, and moments that can make you question your capabilities. This is where the “It’s not Over until I win” mindset becomes your most valuable asset. It’s a refusal to accept defeat as final, a deep-seated conviction that you have the strength to keep going. 

As Les Brown himself often emphasized, “No matter how bad it is or how bad it gets, I’m going to make it.”

Les Brown also reminds us that no matter what we’ve been through, we are not our failures. You may have made mistakes. You may have fallen short. But that does not disqualify you from your dreams.

“Don’t let someone else’s opinion of you become your reality.”

The truth is  Most people stop just before the breakthrough. They get discouraged by setbacks and quit prematurely. But the difference between winners and quitters?

Winners don’t stop.

2. Embracing Setbacks as Stepping Stones 

For Les Brown, setbacks weren’t roadblocks; they were opportunities for learning and growth. The “It’s not Over until I Win” attitude reframes failure as a temporary detour, not a final destination. Each challenge overcome, each lesson learned from a misstep, brings you closer to your ultimate victory. 

He often encouraged people to embrace these moments, reminding them that “Anytime you suffer a setback or disappointment, put your head down and plow ahead.”

3. Refusing to Be Defined by Others’ Opinions 

The journey to winning often involves facing criticism and doubt from those around you. Les Brown passionately advocated for ignoring the negativity and staying true to your vision. 

The “It’s not Over until I win” spirit empowers you to rise above external validation and focus on your internal drive. He famously said, “Other people's opinion of you does not have to become your reality.”

4. The Importance of Tenacity and Persistence 

Winning often requires a level of tenacity that goes beyond mere effort. It demands an unwavering commitment to your goals, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Les Brown’s life story is a testament to this kind of persistence. 

The “It’s not Over until I win” mantra is a call to tap into that inner reserve of strength and keep pushing forward. He wisely stated, 

“If you do not develop the hunger and courage to pursue your goal, you will lose your nerve and you will give up on your dream.”

5. Living with Unbreakable Hope 

The “It’s not Over until I win” philosophy is rooted in an unwavering sense of hope. It’s the belief that no matter how dark the present may seem, a brighter future is still possible if you refuse to give up. 

This hope fuels your motivation and keeps you in the game, constantly looking for ways to overcome challenges and move closer to your win.

Applying “Its not Over until I win” to Your Life : 

How you can adopt this Powerful Mindset in  your own life? 

 1. Define Your “Win” 

What does success truly mean to you? Having a clear vision of your desired outcome is the first step.Winning starts with your thoughts. What you believe about yourself becomes the reality you live. That’s why Les emphasizes the power of self-talk and vision.

• Visualize success.
• Speak affirmations.
• Focus on possibilities — not problems.

Tell yourself:

🗣️ “No matter what I’m facing… It’s not over. Until. I. Win.”

2. Embrace the Long Game

Understand that significant achievements often take time and consistent effort. Be prepared for the journey and don’t expect overnight success.

 3. Learn from Every Setback 

View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow stronger. Analyze what went wrong and adjust your approach.

Les doesn’t pretend success is easy. He teaches that growth is painful, but necessary.

“You gotta be hungry!”

Hungry for growth. Hungry for change. Hungry for your future.

Setbacks are not signs to stop — they’re signs to get stronger.

 4. Cultivate Unwavering Self-Belief

 Believe in your ability to achieve your goals, even when doubts creep in. Remind yourself of your past successes and your inherent strengths.

 5. Stay Persistent 

Don’t let temporary setbacks derail your efforts. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep striving towards your win.

You don’t have to be the smartest or most gifted. What matters most is your determination.

“You are the only obstacle in your path to a richer life.”

Others may be more talented — but if you’re more consistent, more focused, more determined — you will outlast them.

 6. Surround Yourself with Encouragement 

Seek out positive influences who believe in your potential and will support you on your journey.

7. Keep Working Until the Goal is Achieved

When Les Brown says “It’s not over until I win,” he doesn’t mean just working hard for a few weeks. He means:

• Show up every day even when it’s hard.
• Keep learning even when you feel stuck.
• Take action even when the fear is screaming.

This mindset says: “I will not rest until I make it.” Whether it takes a year or a decade — you keep going.

8. Recommit Every Day

Winning isn’t a one-time decision. It’s a daily commitment to rise up, show up, and move forward — even when no one’s watching, even when you don’t feel like it.

Each day, remind yourself: 

➡️ “This journey isn’t over… because I haven’t won yet.”

Les Brown’s empowering message, “It’s not Over until I win,” is a timeless reminder that the power to achieve our dreams lies within our unwavering spirit. Embrace this mindset, cultivate relentless perseverance, and never give up on your journey to victory. Your win is waiting!

✅ Final Word: This Is YOUR Time

Les Brown’s life is living proof that your past doesn’t define you, failure isn’t final, and the dream is still alive — if you keep pushing.

So whatever mountain you’re climbing, whatever battle you’re facing…

Say it out loud with power:

👉 It’s not Over until I win.” 

Because it’s true.

And you?

You were born to win.

📌 Want more inspiration?

Read: “It’s Possible”  https://thejourney2wealth.blogspot.com/2025/07/its-possible-lifechanging-mindset.html – The Mindset That Changes Everything

Watch: Les Brown’s legendary speech on YouTube

Subscribe to Joan@Journey to wealth for daily motivation.

Written by Joan Nakagwe 

Watch more on my YouTube channel 

https://youtu.be/LoZKWSkH-wY?si=NG5Q20xewGYydqpS