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Writer's pictureManuel Aragon

Becoming a Champion: Adopting the Winning Mentality to Mold Leaders

Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs at us when we least expect it. Unexpected changes in life, or just the everyday uncertainties of life can make staying motivated very challenging. I'm not motivated everyday, if anything I lost a sense of direction over the past year. I'm tired and exhausted but still I'm building towards a much bigger vision. Uncertainty can be scary but I never lose focus on the long term goals.


Embracing The Challenge

The first step is to accept uncertainty is a natural part of life. Instead of letting the unknown paralyze me I'm just trying to remove the emotions and make logical decisions. Its an opportunity to test myself in the chaos. Its like shooting practice in the Gym. The crowd isn't around, just hard work and dedication.


Michael Jordan been an inspiration for years and these are a few of his quotes I keep around the office to feed my mentality:


"My attitude is that if you push me towards something that you think is a weakness, then I will turn that perceived weakness into a strength."


"It's heavy duty to try to do everything and please everybody. My job was to go out there and play the game of basketball as best I can. People may not agree with that. I can’t live with what everyone's impression of what I should or what I shouldn't do."


"Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen."


"To be successful you have to be selfish, or else you never achieve. And once you get to your highest level, then you have to be unselfish."


Embracing Uncertainty
Embracing the unknown in life can lead to newfound opportunities.

Chase Greatness

I have always had a natural ability to catch on to any concept and learn quickly, but remain true to myself in any environment. Boardroom meetings wearing my Jordans and a Hoodie. I don't think the exterior clothes devalues what I bring to the table. However Leadership means you are exposed when bad decisions are made. My dad always said when you climb the ladder your leave your backside exposed for the world to see when you stumble.


I deal with that logic by not even looking back, only up. I aim to be better with balancing time, not only for work but also for relaxation and hobbies. I aim to take the time to educate myself on concepts that bring value to the things I feel obligated to and also impactful work to those around me. This is a much bigger goal than accounting and taxes. I see too many followers and not enough leaders.


Achieving greatness is not predetermined by fate; it is a decision we make. We each have the option to strive to uncover and express our individual greatness. Chasing greatness results in leading a meaningful life. As Henry David Thoreau stated, “One is not born into the world to do everything, but to do something.”


There is always so many seats in the stands spectating the ending, but reality is only a handful get to actually play the game. Basketball is a only a metaphor for me to practice and prepare, This is not a competition nor is life a game.


Maintaining Routine
Competing With Myself Only

Stay Focused on Inner Self

During uncertain times, isolation can creep in. I have not wanted to be around friends, family, or support groups but I'm breaking the norm. I know it's a needed step and I need to face growth head on. Research indicates that maintaining connections can improve mental well-being by reducing anxiety and loneliness. Plus having a support system can keep me accountable for achieving these goals.


I love the adaptability and killer instinct of Kobe Bryant. He held his peers to a higher standard and led by example. A few of my favorite quotes from the second best of all time:


“No matter what, people are going to like you or not like you. So be authentic, and let them like you or not for who you actually are.”


“Setting things up right from the beginning will avoid a ton of tears and heartache.”


“Pain doesn’t tell you when you ought to stop. Pain is the little voice in your head that tries to hold you back because it knows if you continue, you will change.”


"This train is going this way. You're gonna be on it, you're gonna be off it, or you're gonna be under it"


More Inspiration Worth Sharing for Women

I love reading about leaders who faced adversity, like Malala Yousafzai, read her story and remind yourself that overcoming challenges is more than possible. I love her quote:


"One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world." Her life changing story can be found here:

 


Aim to be a GOAT in your profession and not just above average! You will miss 100% of the shots you don't take.


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