DB Systel’s Sprint Starter Program Helps New Grads Build Critical Skills

Chances are, you can relate to the title of this post. (I certainly can.) But, you might be surprised to know who it came from.
Dr. Shaquille "Shaq" O'Neal.
It's hard to believe there are still rocks left unturned or goals unachieved for someone as accomplished as Shaq. After all, he spent 19 years with the NBA, starting with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996 and ending here in Boston with the Celtics in 2011. During this time, he won an Olympic gold medal, four NBA championships, and NBA most valuable player, among many other accomplishments. He is considered one of the "greatest players in NBA history."
Here at Skillsoft, we just hosted our annual conference, Perspectives Unleashed. It was an incredibly empowering and inspiring two days. More than 16,000 people — from all around the globe — registered to take advantage of world-class keynotes, brilliant lightning talks, in-depth panel discussions, and more. All focused on “what’s next” and the power of learning to help organizations meet the challenges ahead.
One of the highlights of Day One was a fireside chat I was privileged to share with Shaq himself. During our conversation, I learned there is far more to the man than basketball. In fact, I would argue some of his most impressive achievements have happened off the court. Yes, he is a world-renown player, but he's also a media personality, philanthropist, educator, and yes … lifelong learner. And during our 40-minutes together, Shaq shared some incredible life lessons that anyone — actually, everyone — should find value in.
It's hard to pinpoint the most inspiring moments of our conversation — there were so many — but these might be my favorites. (And, I‘ve included some food for thought for us mere mortals.)
One of the more memorable moments came towards the end of our conversation when I asked Shaq what he had left to conquer. What he needed to learn. His answer once again involved his "Yoda," Dr. Lucille O'Neal. He met with his mother shortly after retiring and as she embraced him, putting both hands on his cheeks, she said, "You've done everything I've ever asked. From now on, I want you to try to help one person a day. Just one person. Make a person smile."
And that is just what he's doing. Now, what didn't make the final cut but is forever etched in my mind is this … Shaq ended our time together telling me that on his epitaph shouldn’t list accolades or acknowledge career achievements. He simply wants it to read, "He was kind."
I am so grateful for having met and interviewed this incredible leader. To listen to our full conversation, you can watch the replay by visiting www.Skillsoft.com/perspectives2021.
Get ready to be inspired. I know I was.
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