What skills can athletes develop in order to enjoy a successful post-sports career? The following examples reveal some key attributes: relentless optimism, openness to helpful advice, and a willingness to keep learning even when you seem to have won it all.
Michael Strahan: the Power of Relentless Optimism
It takes no small amount of talent and determination to have a sports career as brilliant as that of Michael Strahan. The former defensive end spent the entirety of his 15-year career with the New York Giants, setting a record for most sacks in a season (22.5 in 2001) and winning Super Bowl LII over one of the most dominating dynasties in the history of the NFL, the New England Patriots. This is an impressive list of achievements for sure. But can these skills translate into success off the field? Strahan has built a wildly successful career as an NFL analyst and media personality thanks to one trait that set him apart as a player and has proved irresistible for audiences: his relentless optimism.
“Sometimes happiness and a positive attitude does take grit, desire and discipline,” Strahan explains. “Sometimes it also takes patience and persistence. You have to trust yourself and always do what’s best for you.”
George Foreman: Good Advice Is Invaluable
George Foreman has become a textbook example of how athletes can find success after retiring. The George Foreman Grill is now a pop-culture icon worthy of a place in the Smithsonian collections. In the process, the legendary boxer has earned an estimated $200 million from the endorsement. It’s hard to believe that, had it been for Foreman, he would have passed on the opportunity to become a millionaire. In fact, he wasn’t impressed when he was first presented with the grill. It was the prodding of his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, that made him reconsider his decision. Moral of the story: surround yourself with people whose advice you can trust—and pay attention to them.
Roger Staubach: Don’t Rest on Your Laurels
Roger Staubach was the face of the Dallas Cowboys during the 1970s. “Captain America” was one of the world’s most recognizable sports personalities at the time, but he didn’t rest on his laurels. Staubach began learning the ropes of real estate while still playing for the Cowboys, laying the groundwork for a brilliant post-football career that was crowned in 2008 when the former quarterback sold his real estate services company for $613 million.
New Tech Outreach: Empowering Individuals and Changing Lives
At New Tech Outreach we assist athletes at all levels and the public at large with counseling, coaching, life skills training, and financial education. We aim to change lives by empowering individuals to achieve the goals they have set for themselves.
We work with clients in Washington, Arizona, and all over the United States. Contact us today by email (info@newtechoutreach.com), telephone (202-412-4768), or through our social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.
