Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable is a best-selling motivational and self-development book written by Tim S. Grover, a legendary trainer of world-class athletes such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Dwyane Wade. The book is not just about sports performance—it’s about developing an unstoppable mindset to dominate in any field of life, whether in business, personal goals, or career development.
Grover reveals the psychological traits and mindset that separate average performers from the elite champions. His approach is straightforward, raw, and unapologetically honest. The book is not for those who are satisfied with mediocrity—it is for those who want to be relentless and perform at their absolute best.
This guide will break down the core ideas of the book, provide actionable lessons, and help you understand how to apply these principles in your own life.
The Three Levels of Competitors
Grover divides people into three distinct categories based on their mindset and performance:
1. Coolers – The Average Performers
Coolers are good, but they rarely push beyond their comfort zone.
- They prefer safety, structure, and instructions.
- They can deliver results, but they don’t take risks.
- Coolers are afraid of making mistakes and often avoid challenges.
2. Closers – The Great Performers
Closers are great at what they do, but they are inconsistent.
- They can perform under pressure, but only in favorable conditions.
- They like recognition and care about other people’s opinions.
- Closers finish strong but may hesitate in uncertain situations.
3. Cleaners – The Unstoppable Performers
Cleaners are on an entirely different level. They dominate their field and set new standards of success.
- They thrive under extreme pressure and perform best when stakes are high.
- They don’t need external motivation—they act because winning is their obsession.
- Cleaners don’t just play the game—they change the game.
Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant are perfect examples of Cleaners—obsessed with excellence, unshaken by pressure, and relentless in their pursuit of greatness.
The Mindset of Being Relentless
The central theme of the book is about becoming relentless—a state of mind where you are driven by an unstoppable desire to achieve your goals, regardless of the challenges.
1. Comfort is the Enemy
Average people crave comfort, while champions embrace discomfort. Growth happens when you push beyond your limits.
2. Trust Your Instincts
Cleaners don’t wait for approval or overthink—they trust their instincts and act decisively.
3. Obsession is Necessary
You must be obsessed with your goal. Average people call it “crazy,” but this obsession is what makes you unstoppable.
4. Focus on Winning
Winning is not about luck—it’s about consistent effort and mental toughness. Cleaners are addicted to winning and never settle for “good enough.”
5. Control Your Emotions
Cleaners stay calm under stress. They don’t let emotions or external criticism distract them from their mission.
The 13 Rules of Being Relentless
Grover outlines 13 powerful rules that define a relentless mindset. Some of the most impactful ones are:
- You push harder when everyone else is exhausted.
- You get into “the zone” and shut out everything else.
- You know who you are and don’t care what others think.
- You don’t celebrate success for too long—you’re already chasing the next win.
- You thrive under pressure; it fuels your best performance.
- You are not afraid of being misunderstood or feared.
- You make decisions confidently; you don’t ask for permission.
These rules can be applied in any area of life—business, sports, personal growth, or leadership.
Practical Lessons from the Book
The book is more than just motivation; it offers practical strategies to develop mental toughness.
1. Build Discipline, Not Just Motivation
Motivation fades, but discipline keeps you consistent. Cleaners show up every day, whether they feel like it or not.
2. Learn to Handle Pressure
Pressure reveals who you really are. Instead of avoiding it, train yourself to thrive in high-stress situations.
3. Work in Silence
Cleaners don’t talk about their goals; they let their results speak for them.
“When you’re great, you don’t have to tell anyone. They already know.”
4. Embrace Your Dark Side
Your “dark side”—your inner hunger, drive, and obsession—can be a powerful source of energy. Use it to fuel your success.
5. Never Be Satisfied
Relentless people are never satisfied with one win. The moment you get comfortable, you stop growing.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Athletes who want to reach elite levels of performance.
- Entrepreneurs who want to dominate their market.
- Students or professionals who want to build strong mental resilience.
- Anyone stuck in mediocrity who wants to push beyond their limits.
Final Thoughts
“Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable” is a raw and honest guide to success. Tim Grover doesn’t sugarcoat the truth—success demands sacrifice, obsession, and an unshakable mindset.
If you truly want to be unstoppable, you must stop seeking comfort, stop worrying about other people’s opinions, and start pushing yourself harder than ever.
As Grover says:
“Being relentless means demanding more of yourself than anyone else could ever demand of you.”
This book is not for everyone—it’s for those who are willing to do whatever it takes to be the best.
FAQs About “Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable”
1. What is the main idea of the book?
The book teaches how to develop a relentless mindset, build mental toughness, and push yourself to become unstoppable in any area of life.
2. Who is Tim Grover?
Tim S. Grover is a world-renowned performance trainer who worked with legendary athletes like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Dwyane Wade.
3. What are Cleaners, Closers, and Coolers?
- Coolers are average performers.
- Closers are great but inconsistent performers.
- Cleaners are unstoppable and dominate their field.
4. Is this book only for athletes?
No, the principles apply to anyone—entrepreneurs, professionals, or students—who wants to achieve greatness.
5. Does the book focus only on motivation?
No, it emphasizes building discipline, controlling emotions, and developing a winning mindset.
6. What makes a person relentless?
A relentless person thrives under pressure, trusts their instincts, is obsessed with winning, and never settles for average results.