There are many parallels in the attributes that make a successful elite athlete and someone who has found success in the business world. In these competitive fields those who do well have to be dedicated and persevere through obstacles to find success. The similarities in character make some former athletes great businessmen.
Former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Bradie James has found success in franchising post-athletic career with
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes. He owned a few locations before joining the corporate team in a marketing and operations role this year and has found his first career gave him skills he utilizes on and off the field.
"As an athlete, we thrive in chaotic situations. [On the field], there are so many different things that are going on—the crowd, the opponent—you have to do your job. What you have to do is just hone that ability," he says to Fast Company.
In the competitive athletic field, you develop a mental toughness to come back from losses and persevere, James uses this skill in business as well. But the greatest lesson his first career as an athlete instilled in him is to be a creative problem solver to accomplish your goals.
"Sometimes you say, ‘You know what, the team is banking on this, so let's look at it from a different perspective. Let's try a different way. I'm all in no matter what we do, but let's make this one adjustment. What do you think?’" He told the publication.
