Recapping My SXSW Experience
Black Future House
took SXSW by storm and I was fortunate enough to have time before leaving to check out their opening few sessions. Here are my notes and insight from some very successful game changers in their respective spaces…
Future of Modern Athlete
This session was about the new phenomenon around athletes challenging the status quo and being more than just athletes. How can athletes leverage their playing opportunities into business opportunities while also avoiding the traps and trials of transition. 4 former UT football players took the stage and it was great to see their brotherhood shared on the stage. The best part was their old strength coach closing the session with a heartfelt message emphasizing brotherhood, commitment, respect, and leaving a legacy.
Takeaways
Collaboration Starts From The Ground Up
Things aren’t build top to bottom, they are built from the ground up. Don’t take for granted the process of the journey and building from the ground up
Break Bread With Your Brothers
You have a network of teammates and classmates that you can ultimately grow with if it makes sense for all parties involved. Your brothers (and/or) sisters understand your situation more than most because they are living it as well. We are seeing more and more teammates team up to share deal flow and partner on projects which is great to see as long as all the logistics and partnerships are squared away
Use No As Data Points
Take No’s and use them as lessons to get your closer to your solution.
Can’t Say Yes to Everything
I struggle with this, I want to do everything. In order to increase your bandwidth you have to learn how to say no. Saying no gives you the opportunity to say yes to the things that are truly for you.
Power In Proximity
Network is your net worth, as an athlete, leverage the ability to get in front of anyone that can help or provide value in the areas you are interested in exploring. Leverage your network
Put the Pride Down & Ask for Help
When it comes to the transition you have to forget you were a star athlete and be vulnerable. Don’t block your blessings by not seeking help or taking a couple steps back to ultimately take leaps forward.
The Worst Thing Somebody Can Tell You Is No Is False! Because The Best Thing Somebody Can Tell You Is No
Rather get a fast no then a slow maybe, go to where you’re wanted and don’t see no as a bad thing
BUSINESS BUILDING
Relationships are built over time
Get uncomfortable with asking questions
In terms of growing a business, it’s a balance between grit and intention
The speed at which you are moving towards your potential is how you identify if you are in your purpose
Business is 50% Acquisition + 50%Attrition
Nobody owns inspiration
Ideas come and go, Execution is the name of the game. Execution gets you paid.
FINANCIAL LITERACY
Know your thing... be involved. The athletes that are making the moves we see today are the ones that are involved in their business moves. Asking questions, taking meetings, making decisions. If you don’t know your thing, how can you really know what’s good at the end of the day.
