Konstantin Grigorishin is a Ukrainian businessman, investor, and philanthropist whose 2018 founding of the International Swimming League (ISL) marked a turning point in the world of competitive swimming. Incorporating a format more in line with the wider world of modern professional sports, the ISL includes drafted rosters, international teams and venues, an annual competition calendar, and a fast-paced, team-based approach to events.
With annual competitions, drafted rosters, and a focus on team identity, the ISL mirrored the dynamics of elite global sports leagues. Under Grigorishin’s leadership, it quickly expanded beyond its original eight clubs, welcoming teams from Japan and Canada and establishing itself as a truly international showcase of elite swimming talent.
Grigorishin had previously played a key role in the sport, establishing the Energy Standard Swimming Club in 2012 and overseeing the Energy Standard Group’s patronage of the Ukrainian Swimming Federation. He served as both Founder and President of the ISL, overseeing an organization that has attracted some of the top swimming talent from around the world. A truly international competition, the ISL – under Grigorishin’s leadership – has offered elite swimmers an innovative platform to compete on the global stage.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My typical day involves walking my dog in the morning, working during the day and working out in the evening. I wake up early and go to sleep early. I enjoy listening to various podcasts during the day – philosophy, politics and physics are some of my favorite topics.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I work hard on their realization and don’t give up when difficulties arise.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Global paradigm shifts
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I work on things that spike my interest, so productivity and dedication come naturally.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Be wiser.
Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.
I believe in large scale, global projects.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Working out both physically and mentally to stay in shape.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I work hard to overcome these feelings, trying to solve the problems that cause them. Something that helps with this is structuring my thoughts and immediate tasks.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
To always think outside the box and view things globally, which allows me to see opportunities other people don’t. Something that helps with this, is understanding how things (specifically businesses) work on a conceptual level.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
I stayed in a business (my Ukrainian assets) that originally made me successful for too long. In order to overcome this failure, I started a global project that I am passionate about – the International Swimming League. The lesson I’ve learned from this experience is to always follow my passion and to let go of things that no longer interest me, even if they are profitable.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
I don’t really think of abstract business ideas. When I have a good business idea, I immediately attempt to realize it. Thus, I don’t have anything to share.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
Money is not so important for me, so I don’t really think about these things. Probably, a bottle of wine that turned out to be of significantly higher quality than what I paid for.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
The books and podcast i like change all the time, so it’s virtually impossible to pick a favourite.