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Just Do It: The Real Story Behind Nike’s Rise
Review of the book Shoe Dog - Phil Knight, The founder of Nike.
Nandan Kumar
April 28, 2025
So, I just wrapped up reading Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike, and let me tell you, it’s one of those books you just can’t put down once you start. I had heard a lot about it, but honestly, I didn’t realise how personal and raw it would be.
1. Ever wondered what a “Shoe Dog” is? It’s someone deeply obsessed with shoes—understanding how they function, which type of sole suits whom, and what design works best for a specific person or athlete.
2. The Past tense of Shoe is Shod.
It’s not your typical “success story” where everything is a smooth ride from the get-go. No, Shoe Dog is all about the hustle, the failures, the doubts, and the sheer determination that it takes to build something from nothing. Knight gives you an insider look into the early days of Nike, when it wasn’t even called Nike, and the many struggles that came with turning a shoe business into a global empire. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t easy!
What I appreciated about the book is how real Knight keeps it. He doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He talks about his mistakes, the sleepless nights, the financial challenges, and even the times when he almost thought about giving up. There’s something so refreshing about hearing from someone who has “made it” but isn’t afraid to admit how hard it was. If you’re thinking about starting something of your own or just looking for some inspiration, this book is like a wake-up call.
There are so many takeaways from this book, but one that stuck with me is Knight’s focus on surrounding yourself with the right people. Nike wasn’t built by one person, it was built by a team that believed in the vision, even when things looked grim. And the whole “just do it” mentality? Yeah, it wasn’t just a catchy slogan—it was a mindset that was crucial from day one.
The book is also a reminder that success doesn’t happen overnight. There were years of struggle before Nike became the giant it is today, and honestly, that was probably the most relatable part of the book for me. We all face setbacks, and sometimes it feels like progress is slow, but Knight’s story shows that persistence is everything.
The cowards never started and the weak died along the way. That leaves us, ladies and gentlemen. Us.
If you’re looking for a book that’s more than just business advice and is packed with lessons on leadership, perseverance, and innovation, Shoe Dog is a must-read. It’s not only inspiring but also gives you a peek into what it takes to turn a vision into a legacy.
And hey, if you’ve ever bought a pair of Nike shoes, you’ll probably have a whole new appreciation for the brand after reading this.
