Overcoming Adversity With Mark Cuban

Let’s be real, while nobody like to lose, setbacks are a part of life. The differential between those who overcome setbacks and those who fall prey to obstacles, are what they do AFTER events occur. That’s right, we may not always be in control of the circumstances surrounding life’s right hook to our jawline. However, we are fully in control of how we react and respond to them.

Picture this, business is going great and you’ve finally saved enough capital to really start expanding your horizons. BANG. Your business partner rushes into your office in a panic to inform you that your receptionist, Renee, has forged $83,000 worth of checks from the company account. How did this happen!?! WTF are we going to do now with only $2,000 left in the bank?? You immediately drive to the bank to talk to the Branch Manager about recovering your funds. He should be able to help you get your money back.. Right? Wrong. The Branch Manager basically says you are SOL…

If you haven’t caught on yet, this is a true story from Billionaire and Owner of the Dallas Mavericks, Mark Cuban.

I was pissed at Renee, I was pissed at the bank, I was pissed at myself for letting it happen. I remember going to the bank with copies of the checks, and the manager of the bank basically laughing me out of his office telling me that “I didn’t have a pot to piss in”. That I could sue him, or whatever I wanted, but I was out the money.” – Mark Cuban

Now, keep in mind this is WAY before Mark had reached the success he has today. In fact, I’m willing to bet you have more money in your personal checking account than Mark did at that time. How would you react to such a scenario?? Throw your hands in the air and give up?? No, I’ve got faith in you that you will keep pushing through the toughest of what life has to throw at you no matter what. There is only one option. Get back to work and keep going.

“I got back to the office, told Martin what happened at the bank, and then I realized what I had to do about all of this. I had to go back to work. That what was done, was done. That worrying about revenge, getting pissed at the
bank, all those I’m going to get even and kick your ass thoughts were basically just a waste of energy. No one was going to cover my obligations but me. I had to get my ass back to work, and do so quickly. That’s exactly what I did.” – Mark Cuban

So the next time you’re facing a huge setback, I hope you think of Mr. Cuban and his $83,000 loss. There are always several options open during times of distress. Only one option will move you in the direction of your goals and dreams. I have a good feeling you already know which option that is.. Until next time, keep pushing and progressing.

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