Paul Epstein thought he had it all – a high-flying career in the NFL and NBA, prestige, and decades of success. But there was a pot of doubt and dissatisfaction bubbling away beneath this surface of success. Was this what he truly wanted?
Many of us have moments like these where we wonder if the road we’re on really fits with our deepest values and goals. In Paul’s case, he didn’t just have fleeting doubts; they were signs that led him to a road he hadn’t yet explored.
His story shows how hard it is when our results on the outside don’t line up with our inner direction. It’s about having the guts to question, reevaluate, and, if needed, change direction.
The Legacy of a Father: A Guiding Light in Darkness
At the tender age of 19, Paul faced a devastating loss – the death of his father. A respected teacher and a guiding light in Paul’s life, his father’s legacy became a beacon, influencing Paul’s choices and values profoundly. Years later, a conversation with one of his father’s former students would serve as a poignant reminder of this impact, reinforcing the belief that “tomorrow is worth it.”
Peak Success in the Sports World: A Glimpse into Glamour
Paul’s career as a high-profile sports executive was the dream of many. However, beneath the surface of this glittering success lay a deeper quest for meaning. A retreat in 2016 marked a turning point, revealing the chasm between his professional achievements and personal fulfillment.
Paul’s quest for self-discovery led him to realize the dichotomy in his life – the professional triumphs of a sports executive versus the personal quest for meaning. This realization was a catalyst for change, guiding him towards a path of purposeful living.
The Beauty of Discomfort and Growth
As a father, Paul learned the importance of embracing discomfort. Parenthood brought its challenges, but also immense joy and learning, further enriching his journey.
Looking at the bigger picture, life’s downfalls taught Paul valuable lessons. These moments of despair were not just obstacles but opportunities to forge deeper, more organic connections and gain new perspectives.
During his quest, consistency became a cornerstone of Paul’s life philosophy. Defining and acting on his values daily helped him align his life with his purpose, a practice he encourages others to embrace.
Today, Paul Epstein is a celebrated two-time bestselling author and a distinguished speaker renowned for his insights on decision-making and leadership. His works have earned him a prestigious spot among SUCCESS magazine’s top thought leaders, and he actively shapes the culture of major organizations, including Amazon and the LA Lakers.
Balancing his professional success, Paul is a devoted family man with a lighthearted passion for bacon.
Important Life Nuggets from Paul:
- Overcoming the Voices of Doubt. Paul’s transformation was met with external opinions and societal expectations. He learned the importance of overcoming these voices to pursue his greater passion and purpose.
- Embracing Change Amidst Fear. Change is often accompanied by fear and doubt. Paul’s experience taught him that these feelings are natural responses to transformation. Taking the leap, despite these fears, led him to discover that the most daunting fears often diminish once confronted.
- Decision-Making in Times of Change: The Confidence Formula. Paul’s journey underscored the importance of decision-making in times of change. He developed the 4 Cs – clarity, confidence, conviction, courage – a framework that helped him navigate through life’s challenges. His confidence formula, which multiplies values by action, became a tool for personal growth.
- Living on Your Terms. Paul Epstein’s journey is a powerful narrative of transformation, courage, and authenticity. It teaches us to live life on our own terms, to choose ourselves, and to trust that those who love us will continue to do so, even if they don’t always understand our choices. His story is a beacon for anyone seeking to find their true purpose and live a life aligned with their deepest values.
This story has a strong message. Being open to confusion can help you find out important things. Anyone who has ever felt the pull of a different calling can relate to his choice to leave a dream job and try something new. It’s about finding true self and meaning amid doubts that everyone has.
Win a Signed Copy of “Better Decisions, Faster” by Paul Epstein
As a special thank you to our listeners, we’re excited to offer a giveaway that’s sure to inspire your journey towards making better decisions and living a more purposeful life. Enter for a chance to win a free signed copy of Paul Epstein’s transformative book, “Better Decisions, Faster.”
More of Paul:
- Website: paulepsteinspeaks.com
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/paulepsteinspeaks/
- Instagram: @paulepsteinspeaks
- YouTube: @PaulEpsteinSpeaks
- Facebook: @PaulEpsteinSpeaks
- Confidence Quiz: paulepsteinspeaks.com/confidence-quiz
