Introduction:

Emmitt Smith, known as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, not only excelled on the football field but also applied his winning mindset to other areas of life, including business. Throughout his career and beyond, Smith has shared valuable insights on achieving success in both business and life.  I had the honor of listening to and meeting Emmitt a couple of years ago and in this article, we will explore his top five lessons about winning in business and life.

Lesson 1: Set Clear Goals

One of the key lessons we can learn from Emmitt is the importance of setting clear goals. Smith consistently sets ambitious goals for himself, both on and off the field. In business and life, having clear and specific goals allows us to focus our efforts and work towards achieving them. By setting measurable and attainable goals, we can create a roadmap to success and stay motivated along the way.

Lesson 2: Embrace Hard Work

Emmitt Smith's success can be attributed in large part to his incredible work ethic. He understood the value of hard work and was willing to put in the effort required to achieve his goals. Smith's dedication to practice, conditioning, and continuous improvement allowed him to become a dominant force in football. Similarly, in business and life, embracing hard work and going the extra mile can set us apart from the competition and lead to long-term success.

Lesson 3: Perseverance in the Face of Challenges

Life is full of challenges, and Emmitt Smith's career was no exception. He faced numerous obstacles and setbacks along the way, including injuries and doubters. However, Smith never let these challenges define him or hinder his progress. Instead, he persevered and used these obstacles as fuel to push himself even harder. This lesson reminds us that resilience and determination are key qualities to cultivate in both business and life.

Lesson 4: Surround Yourself with a Winning Team

Emmitt Smith understood the importance of surrounding himself with a winning team. In football, he relied on his teammates to succeed, recognizing that no player can achieve greatness alone. In business and life, building a strong support system is equally crucial. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals who share our values and goals can provide the necessary support, guidance, and inspiration to reach new heights. As the old saying goes, "you are who you hang around".

Lesson 5: Give Back and Make a Difference

Emmitt's success has allowed him to make a positive impact beyond just football. He has been actively involved in various charitable initiatives, using his platform to give back to the community. Smith's commitment to making a difference reminds us of the importance of using our success to uplift others and contribute to the greater good. Whether through philanthropy or mentorship, giving back is an essential aspect of winning in both business and life.

Conclusion:

Emmitt Smith's journey from the football field to the world of business offers valuable lessons on winning in life. By setting clear goals, embracing hard work, persevering through challenges, surrounding ourselves with a winning team, and giving back, we can create a path to success. As we incorporate these lessons into our own lives, we can strive for greatness and achieve our own versions of success, just like Emmitt Smith. Thank you for the insights, Emmitt!

 

Mario DiMarcantonio, CEO

Progressive IT Solutions

Dallas, TX

Executive-level IT & cybersecurity for Dallas-area private equity, VC's, family offices and HNWI's

mario@progressiveitsolutions.com | 214-717-4311