Killer Instinct: Basketball reflects Business

Tonight my intramural basketball team lost by two points, I usually don’t dwell on losses but tonight’s game was especially poignant because of the way the game ended. With about 6 seconds left on the clock we had the ball at the other end of the court, any other time I would have begged for the ball to shoot the game winning shot…but for some reason tonight I did not have that killer instinct. Instead I decided to take the ball out and pass to a fellow teammate where he would launch the winning shot. Winners want the ball at the end of the game. Tonight I wanted to defer.

On my way home, I kept telling myself that I was not myself and even after scoring 13 points, I lacked the focus and the determination to win the game.

Why tonight of all nights?

Can a basketball game imitate life? I play basketball to win. I sell real estate for the achievement. More importantly, I sell real estate because like basketball I have exhibited a history of skill which has resulted in success.  It isn’t enough to be average in a game. Consequently, it isn’t enough to be average in business.  Success is guaranteed to those who are prepared and skilled enough to complete the transaction.  Business imitates basketball.

 Here are my rules for success:

1. Be prepared;

2. Never be intimidated;

3. Play hard and

4. Never lose.

I did not sell any real estate today….go figure.