“I am not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my decisions.” ~Stephen Covey
Many books and articles have been written on what it takes to be “highly successful”. Whether it is the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People or The Four Critical Traits of Highly Successful People, there are some common themes on what it takes. Do you have the traits to be highly successful? Yes, and you have already proven that. For example, you have set goals and met them. You have practiced and performed. You have failed and overcome obstacles and learned from each of those experiences. 
Think back to your experience as a professional athlete, what made you different from the rest? Was it “just” your talent or were there other traits/characteristics that separated you from others. Testimonial after testimonial suggest “talent is not enough.” The traits that led to your success on the field can be applied to your post-football career as well.
- Never give up on the dream. Set goals and take disciplined steps to meet your goals.
- Invest in experience. As a football player, you practiced and simulated game situations. Through The Trust, there are endless resources to expose you to opportunities and provide you with experiences to learn about different careers. Go to a Trust Regional Conference to engage in personal and professional development, speak to your Program Manager about attending Babson College Entrepreneurship Workshops, talk with your AthLife Advisor about participating in the College Athletics Networking Event… practice, practice, practice.
- Learn relentlessly. Are there additional skills/knowledge you can acquire through continuing education? Speak to your AthLife Advisor about your goals and the necessary educational requirements. Apply for The Trust Scholarship to assist you continuing education expenses.
- Be persistent but patient. “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier
For more information, review The Four Critical Traits of Highly Successful People by Naomi Simpson, Founding Director, RedBalloon.
