Case Study – Muhammad Ali
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Case Study: Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali said he was “the greatest” long before it was true.
Did his declaration create his reality? Some would argue yes. But here’s what we can learn about the man who routinely said, “I’m a baaaaaaaad man. And I’m pretty too.”
Confidence Can Never Be Overstated
People who fear rejection often qualify themselves as being “confident, not cocky” but is there really a difference? Actually yes and no. Confidence can be displayed in a cocky manner or it can be a quiet confidence. Likewise, a cocky demeanor may actually be masking deep insecurity. So, the real answer is “maybe” confidence and cockiness are cousins but are not mutually exclusive.
Ali saying “I’m the greatest” was a self-fulfilling prophecy. He knew that he would one day be “the greatest” so he spoke powerful language into existence.
LESSON: Affirm what you’re creating.
Too Many Cooks In The Kitchen Often Ruin The Stew
Ali, like many stars, had a hefty entourage, who did little more than stroke their egos and deplete their bank accounts. Yet when he decided to skinny up his business team, his brand exploded.
LESSON: Don’t be scared to trim the fat.
Be A One Man or Woman Publicity Wrecking Crew (if you have to)
Willie Nelson said ‘if ya done it, it ain’t braggin’. Ali believed this. He was his most vocal evangelist. To get your message out there, you’ve got to do more than toot your own horn. You’ve got to beat the drums and strum the guitars as well.
LESSON: Evangelize, evangelize, evangelize.
Don’t Be Afraid To Say “No”
Sponsors were throwing money Ali’s way yet he never wavered on being true to himself. He doesn’t endorse products he doesn’t believe in. He doesn’t hang out with people he doesn’t like or trust. And never supports causes that aren’t aligned with his beliefs.
LESSON: Don’t chase dollars.
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