THE BEN SIMMONS' LESSON

On Sunday, June 20, 2021, if you were watching the second round of the NBA playoffs you learned a valuable lesson from former number one draft pick, Ben Simmons. The Philadelphia 76er star cost his team a trip to the eastern conference finals because he does not have a jump shot. I mention this not to expose Simmons’ inability as a basketball player but instead as an example of how it is costly to a team, business, family, and friends when you are not willing to develop yourself.

One of the most phenomenal things about life is that you only get one to live so, why not live it to the fullest? Better yet, why not continue to expand your craft, gift, and talent to reach new heights? In other words, understand that while on earth, your life is a constant work in progress that “can” improve. The success of a stud athlete such as Ben Simmons is determined by the three-letter word “can”; just like everyone else. Unfortunately, his behavior during the playoffs demonstrated that he does not believe he “can” be a great shooter. Simply stated, the word “can” is one of the most powerful in the English language. It means to be physically or mentally able to. It requires you to believe in yourself and have the understanding that an individual can only rise and achieve to the level of his or her self-concept. In essence, the truly great achiever never stops trying to improve because they know they can always be better. He or she shoots for zero defects which in turn is the difference between success and failure.

As you move forward in life, ask yourself these five questions daily and watch how pulchritudinous your lived experience will be.

What can I do to make myself feel good?

What can I do to make my family proud?

What can I do better at work?

What can I learn that I don’t know?

What can I do to show my friends, family, or others support?

Once these questions are answered then you must follow through!