Wasted Talent

TALENT WITHOUT DISCIPLINE

Kirkland Laing had a gift. He was a naturally talented boxer who took on and beat the legendary boxer Roberto Duran in 1982. Kirkland, a Jamaican immigrant from Nottingham, who grew up in the poor parts of East London, had the prospect of becoming a success as one of the greatest British boxers, which would have brought Kirkland fame and fortune. But, Kirkland was someone who did things his own way and despite the best intentions of those closest to him to curb his partying antics (often going at it hard the night before a bout), he managed to blow his money and any future of making the millions of pounds so deserved of a gifted fighter. After beating Duran, he went on a year-long partying spree at the point when he should have focussed on becoming a world champion. Kirkland eventually slipped into obscurity, filling his days with gambling, drink and drugs. He could have taken a different path, but he lacked an important tool that talent needs in order to shine out - self-discipline.

Kirkland talked in this video about one day giving up his partying ways and writing a book on his life. A book has been written, but not by Laing. It's called 'The Gifted One' by Oliver Jarrett. This story of greatness unrealised is the same story we all can have played out in our lives if we allow it. Planning out our fun times to fit around much needed work focus can be achieved through having daily assessments and checks, insuring we never lose track of our intended life path.