Live Better with Willie Jolley: The Magic of Earvin “Magic” Johnson
The Magic of Earvin “Magic” Johnson
By Dee Taylor-Jolley
Some years ago after my husband, Willie Jolley, was on a program with Magic Johnson, he wrote an article about his budding business empire. He shared that Magic Johnson had made a decision to “WIN” at every level of life. He won a State Championship in high school; a National Collegiate Championship in college, and a World Championship in his first year with the Los Angeles Lakers. He had a winner’s mindset and that was a major reason for his continued success.
Yet, in November 1991, Magic Johnson held a news conference to tell the nation he was HIV-positive. He was leaving the Lakers after 5 Championships and twelve years with the team. We were all shocked and saddened.
Still The Magic
But, Magic Johnson came back and reinvented himself as a businessman! As Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Magic Johnson Enterprises, Earvin (Magic) Johnson, Jr. has the magic still! His focus now is to provide quality entertainment and services to neglected urban communities throughout the United States.
Targeted Investments
Magic Johnson has a portfolio of national franchises, including, Burger King, 24 Hour Fitness, Washington Mutual Home Loan Centers, AMC/Magic Johnson Movie Theatres and T.G.I. Friday's. His franchise network serves more than 32 million consumers annually in 163 locations in 19 states across the United States!
And in March of this year, Magic Johnson and a group of private investors bought the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2 billion, in cash!
Focus and Philosophy
In a Fortune magazine article Magic Johnson stated, "Kids look to ballplayers as idols, but BET founder Bob Johnson is my idol." Magic’s focus is on bringing life back to the inner city by creating jobs. "Creating young inner city presidents, vice presidents, general managers, managers--that has been the best part," says Johnson.
Few athletes have been able to make the massive leap from sports figure to successful businessman. Magic Johnson created his own magic. And so can we!
Magic Lessons
Save, Save, Save.
Magic Johnson is universally known for his illustrious sports career. He made over $18 million playing basketball. He was able to use some of those funds to launch his empire that is now valued at over $1 billion with a personal net worth of $500 million.
While we may not make millions a year, all financial advisors stress saving more money! Saving your money gives you options for investing in other revenue generating opportunities.
Set Your Goals.
Magic wanted to revitalize urban communities that looked like where he grew up. Magic’s vision was crystal clear. Are you able to articulate your goal? Is it written down? Do you review it every day? Does it motivate you to action?
Plan Strategic Action.
Magic Johnson set his sites on being a successful businessman. He identified a role model, Bob Johnson, founder of BET. He focused on the areas of business he wanted to master. Then, he partnered with other successful businessman in the areas where he wanted to grow. He is strategic in his thinking and long range planning.
Distractions are everywhere we turn! Ignore all ideas, proposals, and activities that do not fit with your strategic plan!
I’m watching the Miami Heat beat the Oklahoma City Thunder in game #3 for the NBA championship. I’m watching with the two main men in my life - my husband Willie and my son William. But I’ve zeroed in on the commentator, Ervin “Magic” Johnson. He’s articulate, dapper and humorous! And wow, working at another income stream!
My strategic plan definitely has more than one income stream. And yours should too!
Dee Taylor-Jolley, President & Training Manager, Willie Jolley Worldwide
Dee Taylor-Jolley is the President of The Jolley Institute, the learning division of Willie Jolley Worldwide, which focuses on presentation skills, leadership development and customer service.
She holds a Masters Degree in Curriculum Design from The Catholic University of America.
