Patrick Mahomes, the Grinder

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Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes decided to bring a television to training camp at Missouri Western College in St. Joseph, Mo., for the first time in his seven-year NFL career. 

Mahomes said the reason for his entertainment decision was he wanted to watch the Olympics, specifically the United States Men’s Basketball Team. 

It might not seem like a big deal, but when Mahomes does something outside of his complete commitment toward his level of play, people notice. Normally in his stark college dormitory room, Mahomes isn’t concerned with what is happening outside the Chiefs quest to become the first three-peat champion in NFL history. 

Mahomes is locked in; totally focused only on what he can do to help the Chiefs reach their 2024 goals. He is the rare player who combines talent with a love of being a grinder. Mahomes loves being on Grinder Island, isolated and focused.

Those who love Grinder Island like Mahomes have a championship mindset, all day, every day. He leads his team by his willingness to work hard on and off the field. He wants to take all the repetitions in practice, rarely allowing the back-up to take part because that’s what grinders do — they want the work. 

What separates Mahomes from others isn’t the number of repetitions he demands; rather, it’s his mindset of believing each rep is as important as the last play of a Super Bowl. His level of competition never rides like the ocean tide. For Mahomes, it’s always high tide on Grinder Island. 

Despite its positive aspects, the grinder mindset has faced recent criticism, mainly from those who don’t understand the heart of a champion. Some argue that it can lead to burnout and a lack of balance in life — which is fair — yet, when you enter the grinder lifestyle, you don’t care what others d, or think.

Being on “Grinder Island” is an isolated life, one that offers rewards down the road. Critics suggest that the relentless pursuit of success may overshadow the importance of rest and personal well-being.

But for the grinder, rest is vital to being able to improve each day. A true grinder goes to bed early, makes sure his/her health is as important as his work. 

The notion that one must always be "grinding" can create pressure and guilt for those who prefer a more balanced lifestyle — which is fine for some, but not for the great achievers. There are no shortcuts to being a champion, and being exceptional comes with a price. 

Mahomes bringing the television is a great concession, one he will feel awkward watching, because his grinder lifestyle isn’t conducive for ideal time. One thing can be certain, when Mahomes goes to work the day after watching a little hoops, his level of performance will be at an all time high. 

Being on “Grinder Island” isn’t for everyone, only for those who love high achievement. 

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