7 lessons entrepreneurs can learn from Manny Pacquiao
There’s something magnificent about the inconceivable power of mind, body and spirit a human being can muster when challenged to overcome an opponent in physical combat
Editor’s note: Over the weekend, Philippine boxer and senator Manny Pacquiao defeated Argentine Lucas Matthysse in his first win in the ring since 2009. This article by contributor Gina Romero was first published in 2015, but her words of advice to entrepreneurs still resonate.
I love boxing. Yes, I know it’s barbaric, but there’s something magnificent about the inconceivable power of mind, body and spirit a human being can muster when challenged to overcome an opponent in physical combat.
Today’s long anticipated fight between Pacquiao & Mayweather was a great example of strategy vs passion – and the fact that sometimes fighting the smart fight can get you to where you need to be.
While Mayweather’s technical fighting tactics might not have been uber-entertaining, (and certainly didn’t achieve the dramatic pinnacle of the 2012 fight between Pacquiao and Marquez) – he managed to keep Manny’s aggression at bay and control both the pace of the fight and the judges’ verdict.
Manny said it best with this quote, “With experience in boxing, you learn how to be a scientific boxer and how to fight easy.”
As an entrepreneur, I know that playing it safe is not an option, that if I’m going to fight, then I’m going in for the KO, and that if I fail spectacularly, it will be an honourable failure in pursuit of the big win.
So for all the Pacquiao fans and entrepreneurs out there, here are 7 lessons we can learn from the indomitable spirit of Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao:
1. Focus, focus, focus
Like all great success stories, Manny’s prowess in the ring is a result of an excruciating training regime, discipline to the point of insanity, razor sharp focus and fanatical drive.
You will not reach the top of your game with anything less than obsession. Full stop.
I don’t look ahead … I keep focused on my next opponent. I am looking forward to my next opponent, I don’t think past that point.
2. Have immense self-belief (and faith in something more)
Whether you are religious or not, you will have to agree that Manny’s display of unwavering faith in God and his own ability gets him back on his feet time and time again.
A sense of greater purpose and faith is fuel for the soul. Find it, grab onto it and never let go.
Only in death will I relinquish my belts.
3. It’s not just about you
Manny is a true believer of adding value. It’s not just about the win – it’s about inspiring people to be more and do more.
When Manny fights, it’s about something more than the belt or the money.
I remember as a little boy I ate one meal a day and sometimes slept in the street. I will never forget that and it inspires me to fight hard, stay strong and remember all the people of my country, trying to achieve better for themselves.
Also read: Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao invests in Philippines car rental platform Graventure
4. Let your team do their thing
Manny constantly reiterates that his job is to fight well and keep his fans happy. He never makes assumptions about what he will be doing next and even though he is the star in the ring, he is very clear that the other decisions are not up to him.
Empowering your team and trusting them to do their job is essential. Success is never a solo game.
All those who are around me are the bridge to my success, so they are all important.
5. Stay grounded — always
Despite his incredible rise to global fame, Manny is the epitome of gratitude and humility.
Never cocky or arrogant, he has won the hearts of fans with his easy going, nonchalant attitude. He is quick to learn from his mistakes and is open and honest about his performance. He compliments his opponent and doesn’t rise to the bait of disparaging the other team.
Never underestimate the importance of staying humble and grounded in your success.
I was just doing my job in the ring and doing my best to make people happy.
6. It’s about performance
During the post-fight interview with Max Kellerman, Manny was clearly unimpressed with Mayweather’s win: I thought I won the fight. He didn’t do nothing, he always runs”, Pacquiao said. “I got him many times with solid punches … I can handle his power.”
“Boxing is not about your feelings. It’s about performance – Manny Pacquiao
7. Stay hungry and humble
While Pac-Man fans everywhere are outraged by the results of the fight – Manny continues to be an inspiration for entrepreneurs, and a living example of how hard work – blood sweat and tears (literally in Manny’s case) and humility, will always serve you well.
Don’t fear failure, in great attempts it is glorious even to fail. – Bruce Lee
If you found the tips helpful, please share! Or comment below if you have anything to add.
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This article was first published on ExecutiveLifestyle, the Business and Lifestyle Directory for Female Executives and Entrepreneurs.
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