8:24 — Words of Affirmation from Kobe Bryant
Deon Egenti
It’s August 24th and it still doesn’t feel real. It’s been a long year for everyone and it feels like it all started on January 26th. The fatal moment that made the whole world stop. Kobe Bryant was an amazing basketball player. The accolades that he has gained from this sport is astronomical. However, as we learned through the late stages of his career and post-retirement, he was an extraordinary human all around. His “Mamba Mentality” wasn’t some catchphrase. It was a way of life for him. The ability to give his all to something that he was passionate about. The ability to always learn and grow as a person. He exemplified that inside and outside of basketball from his Laker teammates to his own family. Kobe Bryant stopped at nothing to become the best person he can be. The same way he motivated himself is the same way we can motivate ourselves and each other. Here are eight quotes that stand a testament to this revolutionary person. The words that will double as affirmations to have that “Mamba Mentality”. Rest in Peace Kobe Bryant.
“Everything negative — pressure, challenges — is all an opportunity for me to rise.”
You have to take all the negative reception and turn it into a positive one. It is your time to rise above all the criticism and obstacles. Don’t let that hinder your opportunity to succeed.
“The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.”
Sometimes it takes inspiration from others to do what you do and be the best at it. Kobe was inspired by Jordan to be the best and that’s what Kobe wanted to be for others. You can be great and inspire.
“I realized that intimidation didn’t really exist if you’re in the right frame of mind.”
When you’re in the right state of mind to achieve your goals, there’s absolutely nothing that can stop you. Don’t feel intimidated by anything that you know you can accomplish.
“A lot of leaders fail because they don’t have the bravery to touch that nerve or strike that chord.”
There are a lot of qualities that align with being a leader. One of the most important traits is bravery. A good amount of people don’t have the bravery to be a leader and inspire multitudes of people. It’s a responsibility and risk that great people take.
“I can’t relate to lazy people. We don’t speak the same language. I don’t understand you. I don’t want to understand you.”
If you’re on the path of doing something for yourself, most people won’t be able to relate. One of the reasons is because they don’t have anything for themselves nor do they want to. Don’t let your life pass you by and go towards your destination to greatness.
“If you want to be great at something, there’s a choice you have to make. What I mean by that is, there are inherent sacrifices that come along with that. Family time, hanging out with friends, being a great friend, being a great son, nephew, whatever the case may be.”
As we all know, life is all about choices. Everyone has the option to be great. However, that comes with sacrifices and you have to be willing to give some things up to be the best. Your destiny to greatness will never be an easy road, but it’s a necessary road for anyone that wants to get there.
“The most important thing is you must put everybody on notice that you’re here and you are for real.”
You have to let people know that you are serious about your craft whatever that may be. You have to put yourself out there so people can recognize your talent. They’re always someone watching you. Let them know that you have arrived.
“It’s the one thing you can control. You are responsible for how people remember you — or don’t. So don’t take it lightly.”
When it’s all said and done, how will people remember you? What will your legacy be? Will you be satisfied with who you are and the work you have done after you leave this earth? The legacy that you build for yourself and your loved ones will leave an impact on people’s lives. That’s exactly what Kobe did. He built an unprecedented legacy. He will always be remembered for more than just basketball. He’s more than an athlete. He’s a friend, a brother, a husband, and a father. All of that will be a part of Kobe Bryant’s legacy. What will be a part of yours?
