Putting in the Work: Inside the Mindset of Charlie Morris

At just 21, Charlie “Chuck” Morris made a bold move - quitting his trade to chase a dream. Trading the toolbox for the board, he set his sights on becoming an Ironman. It wasn’t the easy route, but for Chuck, it was the only one that made sense. Driven by passion, discipline, and a deep love for the ocean, he’s proof that backing yourself can change everything. We sat down with him for a quick chat on his current training, goals and what keeps him inspired everyday. 

1. What keeps you motivated even on those days when training feels tough?
Motivation is just a feeling and it comes and goes. Every athlete knows that 5 am battle when every voice tells you to stay in your warm bed. That’s when discipline takes over. You show up because you said you would. I never rely on motivation, just discipline.

2. How do you define “hard work”? Any routines or habits that help you stick to it?
Hard work isn’t about how hard I can go, it’s about how consistent I can be. It’s doing what I said I would do, even when I don’t feel like it. Every time I break a promise to myself, I notice I lose confidence. Every time I follow through, I build confidence. Hard work is keeping the promises no matter what mood I’m in.

3. Can you share a moment where persistence really paid off for you?
I’ve been creating content for six months now, and there are definitely days I don’t feel like doing it. But I’ve learned that when you’re closest to giving up, that’s usually when something big is about to happen.
A few months ago, I was ready to stop posting content. My girlfriend said “Just post one more video.” That one video hit 400,000 views and got me thousands of followers. You’re always just one post or one race away from everything changing.

4. What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in swimming or fitness, and how did you get through it?
My biggest challenge has always been getting to swim training. I’ve never loved it but I knew it was my weakness. So a year ago I forced myself to go swimming five times a week. After four weeks, it felt strange not to go. That’s because it became a habit.

Ps. The book “atomic habits” is an amazing read and has helped me a lot.

5. How do you usually set goals, do you go day by day, or think big picture?
I think big picture, then build systems around it. For example, my goal was to swim a sub 4:20 400 m. The system: five swim sessions a week, non-negotiable.
For content, the goal was 10,000 followers. The system: post four times a week, no excuses. Goals give you direction. Systems create progress. Without a system, a goal is useless.

6. Teamwork’s huge, what does a good collab or squad vibe look like for you?
This year I moved to Wanda. And ever since I’ve noticed the importance of intensity in every session. We all push each other to the absolute max when we’re training and get so much out of every training session, then after training we always have a laugh. Smithy is the best coach and I’m so excited for what Wanda is going to bring to the table this year!

7. How do you balance the mental and physical side of training? Any tricks to stay sharp?
I stay sharp by staying present and giving 100% to the session that’s in front of me. When I focus too much on what’s tomorrow, I lose focus on what’s today. Just take it 1 day at a time.

8. Have any daily rituals or “little things” that keep you performing at your best?
Nutrition is huge for me, tracking calories daily and hitting targets has completely changed my performance. I also meditate and visualise every day to stay grounded and focused. Stretching every night has been a game changer for my swimming efficiency.

9. If you could inspire the next generation of athletes with a brand like ENGINE, what’s the mindset or message you’d want to share?
Set goals, and every Sunday reflect on what you could’ve done better, then fix it. And build a personal brand because your story can inspire more people than you realise. 

Charlie Morris is the definition of discipline and drive - the kind of athlete who doesn’t just show up, but shows what’s possible when hard work becomes a habit. His approach to training, teamwork, and life reflects the same values that fuel ENGINE: purpose, persistence, and passion. Whether he’s chasing new goals in the pool or inspiring others to dig deeper, Charlie reminds us that success isn’t about luck - it’s about the work you’re willing to put in when no one’s watching.