Arnold Schwarzenegger’s ambitions were not only limited to bodybuilding. He also wanted to be a movie star since childhood. But his determination and hard work played a vital role that helped him achieve worldwide fame despite his humble beginnings.
Schwarzenegger started lifting weights at 15 and won his first Mr. Universe title at 20. After that, he won seven Mr. Olympia titles, which shows how great the world’s top bodybuilder he is. When he retired from bodybuilding, he became an actor and then eventually a politician.
But he still remembers those days when he used to sleep with his first trophy because he was anxious if he could ever win the second.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Slept with His First Trophy
During an interview with People, the Terminator star was asked about his satisfaction with life. No doubt, considering his success and the experiences he’s gained, the question was indeed valid. In response, the Austrian Oak shared the story related to his self-doubts:
“I don’t know what you mean by contentment. I’m always content, but, I mean, I’m always hungry for more. I slept with my first trophy. No one could take it away. But at the same time, the other foot is already out of bed going for the second Mr. Universe title.”
He meant to say that when he won his first trophy, he was skeptical if he could ever win a second. In addition to that, Schwarzenegger also added that he feels good where he is today — he feels that he’s much wiser and smarter. Arnie continued:
“I’m not as crazy. I think more about people. I think more about people’s feelings. In your 20s, you don’t do any of that. It’s me, me, me, me. As time goes on, you learn from your mistakes.”
His reply shows that the seven Mr. Olympia winner is extremely content with his life. When he won his first trophy, he was merely 20, which is why, when he looks back, he feels he has come a long way. Why would he not be? He is now one of the most successful bodybuilders of all time.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Has Come a Long Way
Schwarzenegger won 19 bodybuilding contests, starting with Mr. Europe and ending with Mr. Olympia in 1980 (he won an unprecedented 14 world titles, including seven Mr. Olympias).
Arnie followed his childhood dream of acting in movies. His first film, Hercules in New York (1970), featured him as the lead. The actor-turned-politician has starred in over 40 films. That’s not it — he had also explored directing and producing.
In politics, he was elected as the Governor of California. In this role, he championed several personal initiatives, particularly in the areas of environmental protection and public health. Alongside his political career, Schwarzenegger also found success as a businessman.
He owns several commercial real estate properties in Southern California. Schwarzy also owns a production house, Oak Productions, and is also an investor in companies like Genius Brands International.