Eric Heiden: 'It's not a sport you get famous at. If I wanted to be famous, I would have stuck with hockey.'

It's not a sport you get famous at. If I wanted to be famous, I would have stuck with hockey.

In this blog article, we will delve into the quote by Eric Heiden, "It's not a sport you get famous at. If I wanted to be famous, I would have stuck with hockey." At first glance, the quote may seem straightforward, highlighting Heiden's perspective on fame and his choice to pursue speed skating rather than hockey. However, let us explore a philosophical concept that adds an unexpected twist to the discussion.To begin, let's summarize the surface meaning of Heiden's quote. Heiden, a former American speed skater who won five Olympic gold medals and set numerous world records, suggests that speed skating is not a sport that typically brings fame. He contrasts his chosen path in speed skating with the alternative of pursuing hockey, indicating that if he desired fame, he would have stuck to the more traditionally recognized sport.The straightforward interpretation of Heiden's words implies that some sports are more likely to lead to fame than others. In the case of hockey, with its wide international popularity and the media attention surrounding professional leagues, it is easier to envision athletes becoming well-known figures. Speed skating, on the other hand, may not receive the same level of public recognition, even for accomplished athletes like Heiden.Now, let us introduce a thought-provoking philosophical concept into the discussion: the distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic motivation. While fame is often considered an extrinsic motivator, reflecting external recognition and approval, pursuing a sport for the sheer passion and personal fulfillment it offers aligns with intrinsic motivation. This concept sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the choices athletes make and the reasons behind their pursuit of a particular sport.In the case of Eric Heiden, his words can be seen as an affirmation of the intrinsic motivation that drove him to choose speed skating over fame. Throughout his career, Heiden displayed an unwavering dedication to his craft, driven by his love for the sport and the pursuit of excellence. His focus was not on seeking external validation but rather on personal growth, self-improvement, and the sheer joy of skating.This philosophical perspective provides an interesting parallel to the world beyond sports. It prompts us to reflect on the choices we make in our lives, the motivations behind those choices, and the role fame plays in our pursuit of happiness or fulfillment. In a society that often places great emphasis on recognition and fame, we may overlook the intrinsic value of pure passion and personal satisfaction.Ultimately, Eric Heiden's quote reminds us that the pursuit of fame does not necessarily equate to a fulfilling and meaningful journey. While some sports may provide a more direct path to fame, it is essential to choose our endeavors based on intrinsic motivation and personal fulfillment rather than external validation. In a world that encourages us to be fame-driven, we should not underestimate the power and value of pursuing our passions simply for the love of doing so.In conclusion, Eric Heiden's quote offers more than a simple statement about fame and sport choice. It invites us to reflect on the motivations that drive our actions and raises the philosophical concept of the distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic motivation. By choosing speed skating over hockey, Heiden prioritized his love for the sport and personal fulfillment over the pursuit of fame. This perspective challenges us to reconsider our own pursuits and the role of fame in our lives, reminding us of the intrinsic value in following our passions for the joy they bring.