Max Maeder at Olympics: What I Learnt from Singapore's Medal Hopeful

Max Maeder in kitefoiling final at Paris Olympics

Like many Singaporeans, I am spending Singapore's National Day at home watching the Paris Olympics kitefoiling finals.

17-year old Max Maeder has qualified for the men's kitefoiling final at the Paris Olympics, and is close to winning Singapore's first medal at the Games. 

While I was awaiting the finals to start, I looked up some of the earlier interviews with Max Meader, and found that he has many insightful reflections on success and perseverance.

Here, I share some of the quotes from the World Champion and Asian Games Gold medalist that I thought can help us to achieve our own financial goals and personal aspirations. 

The Power of Effort and Joy

"What drives me (to succeed) is the ability to put in a lot of effort and work, and seeing people smile because of the results of it.

Max Maeder’s drive to succeed is deeply rooted in his love for hard work and the joy it brings to others. 

He eloquently states, “What drives me (to succeed) is the ability to put in a lot of effort and work, and seeing people smile because of the results of it.” 

This highlights the intrinsic value of effort—not just for personal gain, but for the positive impact it has on others. 

It’s a reminder to me that true success is often measured by the happiness and inspiration we can bring to those around us.

Focus on the Process

"I have enough people worrying about whether or not I will win. I get to focus on trying to be faster around the racecourse."

In competitive sports and many other aspects of life including investing, it might be hard to get our emotion in check. 

However, Maeder chooses to focus on the process rather than the outcome. “I have enough people worrying about whether or not I will win. I get to focus on trying to be faster around the racecourse.” 

This mindset is invaluable, emphasising the importance of concentrating on what we can control and letting go of what we are not able to control. 

It’s about being present in the moment and giving our best effort, regardless of the outcome.

The value of showing up 

"It's by showing up every day and doing it, dealing with it anyway. Show up and do the best that you can"

Success is not always about achieving a single milestone or reaching a certain end point. Often, it’s about consistency and perseverance. 

Max Maeder’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “It's by showing up every day and doing it, dealing with it anyway. Show up and do the best that you can.” 

This tenacity is a powerful lesson in commitment. Whether in sports, work, or even learning to invest, showing up and putting in the effort every day is what ultimately leads to progress and achievement.

Positivity in adversity

"When you get something unexpected in life, you need to remain patient.  Remember what you prepared for, and see how you can turn it into a positive outcome."

Life is full of unexpected challenges, and how we respond to them defines our journey. 

Maeder advises, “When you get something unexpected in life, you need to remain patient. Remember what you prepared for, and see how you can turn it into a positive outcome.” 

This wisdom highlights the virtue of patience. By staying calm and focused on our goals, we can turn setbacks into opportunities for growth and success.

Pursuing your path relentlessly

Max Maeder’s success at such a young age is a testament to following one’s passion, even when the path is not straightforward. 

"I just followed what I wanted to do. I followed, perhaps, even what I didn't want to do, but where it would get me closer to where I wanted to be.  It's simply taking steps towards where you want to be, regardless of what situation you are in"

This advice is about taking deliberate steps towards our goals, even if the journey involves unexpected detours or challenges. 

It’s about maintaining focus and commitment, no matter the circumstances.

The spirit of perserverance

"Don't give up, and keep doing what you love"

At the heart of Max Maeder’s philosophy is an unwavering commitment to never giving up. 

His words, “Don't give up, and keep doing what you love,” are a reminder for anyone facing difficulties. And yes, Max Maeder shared these words when he was just 12-years old!

This spirit of perseverance is crucial for achieving long-term success and fulfillment. 

It reminds us that passion and persistence are the keys to overcoming obstacles and reaching our dreams.

What would Beansprout do?

Max Maeder's reflections teach us the importance of hard work, the power of focusing on the process, the value of showing up consistently, and the need for patience and positivity in adversity. 

More importantly, his unwavering commitment to following his passion and never giving up serves as a powerful inspiration for anyone of us striving to achieve our goals.

We wish Max Maeder all the best in the Olympic finals!

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