Like A Pro.

So for those who know me, you know I love to write about being "Pro"... Why? 

I have always been fascinated by what it takes to be a "PRO" - in life, in sports, in business, in your presentation, in everything you do. 

Unfortunately, we are at a place in time where "being pro" is not what it once was.. and those who are actually living on the polar opposite coast of "pro" are receiving acclaim... promoting more outlandish, attention-seeking behavior. 

This can be seen almost anywhere today, starting with social networks and ending on grand stages of events like the Grammys.

True.. we all have thoughts, opinions, dreams, goals, and stances... but we must always remember that our personal "presentation" is everything.

If you study the great leaders in American History... those who have left legacies long after their passing... you will see some individuals who were often times "opinionated & convicted", renegades in the their own way... but they had immense respect and professionalism.

Freedom of speech, freedom of thought are all beautiful things.. and it is encouraged..

But, to truly be perceived as a "pro," or somebody that has the ability to lead others, there is no substitute for class, elegance of presentation, and speech in a vernacular that is powerful, yet uplifting.

In spending so many years watching great players give interviews on topics of both positive and negative performances in which they were involved, what I found amazing was that when things were going great, they credited others.. when things were going poorly for them, they took all the blame..

Never pointing fingers, never blaming others for a negative performance... and certainly always respecting authority and leadership because that is what sports is all about...

Example: I watched Bill Belichick and Tom Brady in a press conference last week.. both men of extraordinary ability in their craft... both with extremely high praise and respect for one another. Like any relationship... there were times of pressure during the season.. but "respect" and "professionalism" allowed for an outstanding outcome to prevail...

TIPS: Commit to a cause,Stay well groomed, always dress comfortable- yet well tailored and based on the environment (dress up not down), stay fit, keep your surrounding organized and tidy, always shake hands with people and maintain eye contact, care for others.

I write today's piece as "food for thought" as we watch so many people "rebel"... abandoning timeless standards, core values, and ethics that allow for unity and strength over time. If you see somebody that is "acting out"... don't think that is the light... stay classy, stay PRO... in the end you will be granted the utmost respect. #TrainLikeAPro