Jay Shetty - Chris Paul

Darshan Mudbasal
|
June 19, 2023

1) Chris Paul discusses the anxiety he used to experience before entering the court during a game due to his pre-game ritual. However, he decided to break up his routine and cut out certain parts, like the bodywork he used to get between 11:15 and 1, to give himself time to relax and do something different. Chris emphasizes how important it is to intentionally change up routines to prevent monotony and drive oneself crazy. Additionally, he talks about how routines, such as handshakes and chants, are developed on teams over time, and how these routines can be important for building team camaraderie. Chris also speaks about how, although he exudes confidence, there are things he has been insecure about in the past, such as his size, as he was always the smallest on his team and couldn't touch the backboard before a game.

2) Chris discusses his experience growing up and how he had to develop the actual skills of playing the game instead of just focusing on learning how to dunk. He talks about his grandfather, who provided for his family financially despite experiencing hardship growing up, and how watching him work hard every day inspired Chris to become more competitive and never give up. He also talks about how as a kid, he wanted things but eventually realized that money and materialistic items don't complete you; instead, the ability to help others and change their lives are more fulfilling.

3) Chris discusses the challenges of being a parent and instilling the right values in his children. He talks about how, as a child, he wanted a different life from what his parents gave him and how he struggles to motivate his children now that they are living an entirely different lifestyle. He emphasizes the importance of communication and being intentional in parenting, as there is no manual to guide one in raising children. Chris also shares a poignant moment when his son Chris was upset about having to move from LA to Houston, and how he recognized that he needed his son just as much as his son needed him.

Chris Paul in podcast with Jay Shetty

4) Chris discusses how he overcame the societal pressures and media narratives in his career. He talks about the importance of avoiding the clutter and distractions on social media during the playoffs, as they could affect a player's confidence. Chris also shares his experience as a parent, highlighting the struggles that children face in dealing with social media and the constant pressure it brings. He emphasizes the need for mental strength and avoiding the negativity.

5) Chris talks about how his grandpa used to encourage him to listen to obituaries as they came on the radio, naming the people who had passed away. This early exposure to death made it hard for him to deal with his grandmother's passing when he was seven, and he still struggles with it today. However, he feels better knowing that he has footage of his grandpa from his 60th birthday that he recently found on a converted DVD. He notes that while his kids have been fortunate enough not to have to deal with much death, it is meaningful for him to have his grandpa's voice and to be able to share that with his family.

6) Chris talks about his grandfather's tragic death and how it has impacted his life. He explains how he found an amazing tape that helped him reconnect with the memory of his grandfather, but also made him feel emotional as he wasn't there during his grandfather's last moments. Chris Paul mentions that his grandfather's biggest lesson to him was about work ethic but also how important it is to balance work and family. Paul shares that he has tried to help his family with their grief while processing his own and how he hopes his book will help his parents understand some things about him that they may not know.

Chris Paul

7) Chris explains why it was important to share his grandfather's tragic death in his book. He talks about calling his mom to learn more about his grandfather and why it's important to ask grandparents questions to learn about family history. Chris also talks about treasuring the relationship his kids have with his parents and wife's parents and how it taught him to appreciate them more. He reflects on the emotional journey of coming to terms with his grandfather's death, finding empathy for the individuals who assaulted him, and realizing that being incarcerated for a long time can also be a big mistake.

8) Chris talks about how he never received an apology or any remorse from the boys who were responsible for his grandfather's death. Even though the case was reopened years later, it was difficult for him to accept that he would never hear an apology. He describes this as accepting an apology you never received to rise above it. He also discusses his book, which he wrote as an honoring of his grandfather, detailing how traumatic events happen, and he remembers everything. The book allowed Chris Paul to share his experiences and honor his grandfather, and he hopes that readers can draw any experience from his memoir.

9) Chris shares the emotional story of how he honored his late grandfather who passed away when he was young. He talks about how he was determined to honor him and did so in one of his basketball games where he scored 61 points, and it became a highlight of his life. He also mentions the difficulty of losing a loved one and navigates the "what if's" in his career and how he applies off-court lessons on the court and vice versa. Chris talks about how he was also able to sit down and have a profound conversation with Kobe Bryant two months before his tragic passing and how Kobe's dedication and presence continue to inspire him.

Chris Paul

10) Paul discusses the best advice he ever received: to never delay gratitude. The advice came from his college coach, who was one of the most influential men in his life. The coach had many sayings, and this particular one related to sports as it's hard to win a game. Chris also emphasizes the importance of thanking parents for the opportunities they provide, which is something he makes kids do during his basketball camps. Chris talks about the value of giving his undivided attention to people, especially kids who look up to him, by taking pictures or giving them the opportunity to watch him warm up.

WRITTEN BY
Darshan Mudbasal

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