Success based on numerical and statistical data and accolades such as a high grade point average, numerous awards won or even touchdowns scored is always a great accomplishment.It is not hard to believe these tangible and visual evidences of success are a just measure of what a person can bring to a group in a social or business sector. This can be in the form of a business, team, organization or simply any form of a group that all work toward a common and singular goal. Though, the tangible and visual evidences of success are incomplete without a trait that is all-important.
National Football League wide receiver Terrell Owens is notorious for having a lack of character and self-discipline, though he has compiled outstanding statistics. Good character is the vital supplement of measuring true success.
Character and self-discipline are measured in all aspects of life. Interviews are used to measure character and self-discipline regardless of success on paper.
Wide receiver was my position for the nine years of my football career on the high school, collegiate and professional level. I cherish the position and Terrell Owens has been one that I have always loved and looked up to.
Owens has accumulated nearly 1,000 receptions, over 14,000 receiving yards and 139 touchdowns over his fourteen NFL seasons. This is enough to enroll him as a first ballot hall-of-famer in anyone’s book.
Owens has played for three NFL teams, each stint ending in controversial manners created by Owens and questions of his team officials and their respective fans.
Most recently, Owens three-year stay with the Dallas Cowboys ended last week as Owens was a disturbance to teammates and coaches. Essentially the Cowboys were unable to succeed as a team.
Owens will now once again attempt to put his character issues at rest to become a successful asset to his new team, which is the Buffalo Bills.
If one needs to consider further evidence of a similar scenario to Owens, Pete Rose played 25 Major League Baseball seasons. His last ended in 1986 and he has compiled superb statistics and field respect by his on-field production from analysts enough that could enshrine him into the hall of fame.
Over 20 years later he finds no fortune in obtaining this prestigious honor because of his gambling addiction on the same games he participated in.
Owen’s scenario is a microcosm to reality. It is vital to take pride in any endeavor, activity and challenge that one is encountered with, and wanting to do the best. Though, one must not let a disciplined character be of sacrifice.
Employers and a interview panelist may love one’s grades, accolades and numerical successes, but what is not tangible or visual like being able to co-exist fairly, honestly and to adjust effectively with peers of various backgrounds and personalities for a same goal also goes a long way in determining success.
