Lessons I Learned From Kobe Bryant

A legend in his own time, Kobe Bryant was a world-wide phenomenon. Whether he was scoring points with the Lakers, coaching a team of young players, competing for Olympic Gold or making an Oscar-winning documentary, he gave his all to whatever he was doing. His work ethic was as legendary as his exceptional athletic ability. He was totally dedicated to being the absolute best he could be, and he completely mastered his sport. He was unstoppable.

Upon hearing the recent tragic news about Kobe, legions of fans flocked to Staples Center all week to express their condolences, show their support, and share their grief. Loyal fans left thousands of tokens of affection. Everyone from celebrities and athletes, to heads of state, shared their shock and sadness all over social media. Not since the death of Princess Diana or Michael Jackson, can I recall such an outpouring of adulation and admiration.

Very few people in life ever make such an impact. One of the greatest champions in NBA history, Kobe's achievements and accomplishments both on and off the court made him one of the most inspirational athletes and leaders of our time. He was bigger than basketball--his legacy will continue forever. And for as many unforgettable moments as he gave us on the court, he also gave us many memorable leadership lessons from the way he approached the game and lived his life.

Here are some of the lessons I have learned:

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1. Outwork everyone

Kobe had a habit of practicing in the gym at 4:00 am. If your job is to become the best at what you do, you need to out-practice everyone else. Practicing was a lifestyle for him. Over the years, this habit set him apart from his competitors, (including his teammates,) giving him a competitive edge. Train yourself often, start earlier, stay later, make it your mission to become the best at what you do. Outwork your own potential. Practice and practice hard, to totally master your craft.

2. Become a thinker

Have a teachable spirit and ask a lot of questions. Be intentional. Set aside time to think and reflect about your success, failures and lessons learned. Reflection turns your knowledge into insight.

3. Go for your purpose

Don't spend time on the things that won't get you closer to your purpose. Knowing your goals is very different than knowing your purpose. Purpose is more deliberate and intentional. You need to reach your goals to achieve your ultimate purpose. Goals are just steps to getting you there. Your purpose is about the impact you make on something and the legacy you leave behind. Often, when you are pursuing your goals, you get discouraged and you give up. But when you are focused on your purpose, you give it all you've got-you are passionate, enthusiastic, determined. You become unstoppable.

4. Compete with yourself... and only yourself

Get better every single day. Be better than yesterday. How you improve yourself, is more important than comparing yourself to others. When you compare, you lose focus. But when you compete with yourself, you are laser focused.

5. Follow your passion

The most fun thing in life is doing a job you love, so you never feel like you're working. The rewards are 10 times greater. Find what you love and do it. Live your life with no regrets. 

6. Commit first and get busy

Commit yourself to be the best God created you to be. Share your commitment publicly or with people you trust. Then get busy taking massive action

and do not procrastinate.

7. Be laser focused

Stay focused on your craft. It's OK to be obsessed. The world becomes your library when you're dedicated to your mission in life.

8. Become the best version of yourself

Never stop learning. Never stop giving your best, never stop living life to the fullest. Set clear expectations for yourself, elevate your game, aim high and as KB said: "Everything negative - pressure, challenges - is all an opportunity for me to rise."

 9. Study Success

Success leaves clues. Kobe took the lessons he learned from the game and applied them to his life and business both on and off the court.

10. Learn from failures

Everyone makes mistakes-that's how you learn. Pay attention to the lessons.

11. Protect your dreams

Keep your dreams pure. Never let anyone steal your dream.

12. Love the game

The passion of the game will carry over to real life. True champions never retire. They may stop being a player, but they still find a way to 'stay in the game' and be fully engaged in life.

13.Push through the pain

You have to love the game, no matter how tough it gets. Keep pushing and don't give up.

Being a legend doesn't automatically make you a leader. Being a leader isn't just about fame, fans, or winning awards. It's about the legacy you leave behind. Just by being who he was, through his actions and the way he lived, Kobe accomplished that very well. His legacy will be with us forever.

Farshad Asl www.farshadasl.com