How often do you find yourself worrying about, “what are people going to say?” I know as much as I try to restrict that thought from crossing my mind, it has a way of creeping in.
In 2020, we saw the boxing world announce to what many (including myself) saw as a circus, between YouTube sensations Jake Paul and Ali Eson Gib.
The reason why this was deemed a circus is because both men at this point had no proven boxing record even at an amateur level, and because the fight would be sanctioned by the Florida State Athletics Commission, this would be deemed a pro bout.
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What one needs to understand is that at this point, Jake Paul had made a career out of “not caring about what people were going to say” through his YouTube videos with his brother. Before the transition into boxing, Jake and his brother Logan were arguably some of the most disliked people in American popular culture, and of course now that he was looking to jump in the ring for six rounds against a rival ‘YouTuber’, he was receiving no love or well wishes.
Instead of being worried about the outcome or negative opinions, Paul put his mind into his goals regardless of the naysayers and he walked away with a first round Technical Knockout (TKO).
It wouldn’t end there, as Paul would go on to challenge former NBA player and three-time slam dunk contest winner Nate Robinson a proven athlete that he would put to sleep halfway through the second round.
Next would be former Bellator MMA and One FC MMA champion and former UFC welterweight contender Ben Askren in the first round also via TKO.
Paul was living up to his alias as “The Problem Child”. And in case you were wondering it’s not over, Paul’s next fight will no doubt be his biggest challenge.
He will take on former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley who is on his way to the MMA hall of fame in the early hours of August 30.
You see, I was one of the first doubters of Jake Paul. However after giving it some time and thought, regardless of his shenanigans and mischievous behaviour, we could all learn a thing about mental strength from him.
What if he had allowed all the negative comments and doubters, would he even have even achieved stardom as a YouTuber? Probably not. Many have compared what Paul is doing to Conor McGregor’s rise in MMA. Confident, brave and unapologetic.
Next time doubt crosses your mind due to the fear of public humiliation or public failure, remember that at the end of the day people will always remain attracted to and inspired by authenticity.
“If you don’t live by the praise of men, you won’t die by their criticism,” – Bill Johnson.
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