4 Life lessons drawn from the life of Muhammad Ali

Legends are not born, they are made. They are made by hard effort, which is the price which all of us must pay to achieve any goal that is worthwhile. It was dedication, determination and grit that made the man behind the legend- Muhammad Ali.

Muhammad Ali transcends his sport and remains, indisputably, the greatest personality in boxing history. His documentary 'I am Ali'which airs on Star Movies Select HD this Saturday, January 9 at 9pm, gives anintimate and heart-warming look at the man behind the legend.

"I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'" - Muhammad Ali

Here are some valuable lessons that have been drawn out from the life of the man who lives, loves, has fought and conquered to it all, earning him the title 'The Greatest'.

Discover your passion

You would be surprised to learn that Muhammad Ali was not at all interested in boxing. It was a Louisville police officer who changed the fate of young Ali. The latter was enraged at a thief who robbed his bicycle and told police officer, Joe Martin that he wished to whip the robber. It was then that Martin suggested him to learn boxing first. Martin served as his early coach, teaching him the technicalities involved in the game.

Be Dedicated

Ali was known for his dedication.It wasn't enough for him to just "train hard" Ali wanted to know exactly what these men did to get where he wanted to go. He had an insatiable curiosity for the sweet science, a willingness to do more than the other guy and a drive unlike any other fighter of his time.

Seek Wisdom

When Ali settled on the fact that he wanted to be heavyweight champion of the world, he didn't pick up a guru-written paperback or ask probing questions of the guy hitting the heavy bag next to him. He sought out one of the most accomplished trainers of his time and devoured anything he could about the routines of other top boxers.

Overcome Limitations

Ali was stripped of his title as he refused to render his services to the army in the Vietnam War. Not only was his boxing license suspended he was sentenced to three and a half years in prison along with a fine. After his period of exile, he made a comeback with the fight against Jerry Quarry. Ali never gave up. He came back stronger and fought harder earning him the title'The Greatest'.