AAMRI Write Up: Special Guest – Daron K Roberts. by Joshua O. Nyangon
At The University of Texas at Austin, the initials DKR are often associated with the Darrell K Royal stadium. However, there’s another man who bears the same initials who is cultivating a legacy on campus; Daron K Roberts. Roberts’ background is far from conventional. He is an Alum of UT who went on to obtain a law degree from Harvard University. On a clear path to what many would regard as successful law career he “called an audible” and went on to pursue coaching. He further details his journey in his highly acclaimed book, “Call an Audible: Let My Pivot from Harvard Law to NFL Coach Inspire Your Transition.”
In his talk with AAMRI, Roberts gave three key points.
- Hope is not a strategy: There’s a difference between the “Instagram hustle” and working towards your goals. If you’re spending more time talking about what you’re going to do than doing it, there’s a disconnect. Forget what people think, who cares if your idea fails, the process of turning your dreams into a reality will teach you much more than just hoping everything works out.
- Turn Your circle into a triangle: In our social media driven society, the word “friend” gets loosely associated with too many people. Roberts’ recommendation is to find 3 people who you match with in terms of work ethic, goals, and aspirations. Beyond that, diversify your network, connect with individuals outside of your expertise.
- Don’t outsource your inspiration: If your source of inspiration does not come from within, you leave yourself vulnerable and limit your own personal growth.
Hearing Roberts story and insight left a clear impression on everyone in the room. He encourages others to embrace the uncertainty of life and to fall into your goals. You have the ball of life in your hands, will you carry it all the way to your end zone?
