Meaning: The quote by Frank Shorter, a former American long-distance runner and Olympic gold medalist, reflects the minimalist lifestyle and mindset often adopted by elite athletes. Shorter's statement suggests that athletes, including himself and his competitor Bill, are capable of living on very little and do not require much to sustain their lives. This sentiment speaks to the discipline, focus, and determination that athletes cultivate in their pursuit of excellence.

In the world of competitive sports, athletes often undergo rigorous training regimens and adhere to strict dietary and lifestyle choices to optimize their performance. This commitment to their craft may lead athletes to embrace a minimalist approach to life, focusing on the essentials and eschewing excess material possessions or distractions. Shorter's assertion underscores the idea that athletes are able to thrive with simplicity, emphasizing the value of resilience, fortitude, and self-reliance.

Frank Shorter's own life and career exemplify the dedication and perseverance characteristic of elite athletes. He rose to prominence as a distance runner during the 1970s, achieving significant success on both the national and international stages. Notably, Shorter won the gold medal in the marathon at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, solidifying his place in Olympic history. His accomplishments and insights into the athlete's mindset offer valuable perspectives on the intersection of athleticism, mindset, and minimalism.

The concept of living on very little extends beyond the material realm and can be interpreted in a broader context. It speaks to the resilience and adaptability that athletes develop, not only in managing their physical needs but also in navigating the challenges and uncertainties of their competitive pursuits. The ability to thrive with minimal resources or external comforts exemplifies the mental toughness and resourcefulness that athletes cultivate to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

Furthermore, Shorter's assertion may also resonate with individuals outside the realm of sports, offering a philosophical perspective on the value of simplicity and the ability to thrive with less. In a society often driven by consumerism and materialism, the idea of living on very little can serve as a reminder of the intrinsic resilience and capabilities that individuals possess. It encourages a reevaluation of priorities and a recognition of the potential for fulfillment and success through a more minimalist and purposeful approach to life.

In conclusion, Frank Shorter's quote encapsulates the minimalist ethos embraced by many athletes, emphasizing their ability to thrive with simplicity and resilience. His words provide a glimpse into the mindset and lifestyle of elite competitors, showcasing the discipline, determination, and self-reliance that underpin their achievements. Beyond the world of sports, the quote invites contemplation on the broader significance of living on very little, offering insights into the value of simplicity, resilience, and purposeful living.