This week marks the 1 year anniversary of the tragic loss of Hall-of-Fame basketball player and iconic leader Kobe Bryant. He was not only an inspiration on the court, but a true leader in so many ways. Here are some valuable lessons learned from Kobe that can be specifically applied to the real estate market.
Relentless work ethic
Kobe once said, "I have nothing in common with lazy people who blame others for their lack of success. Great things come from hard work and perseverance. No excuses." Kobe's relentless work ethic was undeniable, he was the first one at the gym working to be his personal best at all times.
In his mind, showing up is everything. He was always willing to put in the hours no matter what obstacles came his way. This type of work ethic will separate you for the rest of the pack. Real estate rarely takes a day off, so showing up and refining the craft is how you will out work and out deliver your competition.
Dare people to be their best
“I liked challenging people and making them uncomfortable," Kobe once said. "That’s what leads to introspection and that’s what leads to improvement. You could say I dared people to be their best selves.”
Whether you are negotiating a million dollar deal for a buyer or making sure a contractor holds up their end of the deal, this Mamba Mentality is important to embrace within your real estate business.
Handling pressure like a champion
“Everything negative pressure, challenges — is all an opportunity for me to rise.” Kobe once said. In 97’, 18-year-old Kobe missed the game winning point against the Utah Jazz. This seeming failure ultimately led him to zero in and refine his skills. He used his failure as feedback, and went on to have 36 game winning shots throughout his 20 year career.
There are a million different ways the real estate game can go, and utilizing this game winning attitude will help you to recover and improve no matter the circumstances.
The Mamba Mindset
“Mamba mentality is all about focusing on the process and trusting in the hard work when it matters most,” Kobe said in an interview. “Hard work outweighs talent — every time,” he continued. “Mamba mentality is about 4 a.m. workouts, doing more than the next guy and then trusting in the work you’ve put in when it’s time to perform. Without studying, preparation and practice, you’re leaving the outcome to fate. I don’t do fate.”
This competitive spirit and preparation is an essential component to success in the luxury real estate market. Each meeting, listing, or deal has the potential to lead to a win but it takes preparation and practice to get there.