When to Walk Away
Ready — Greatness in any field is defined by knowing when to push forward and when to step away. Basketball star Kobe Bryant, a player whose work ethic and drive set him apart, found the decision to retire from professional basketball difficult.
Set — “How do you know when it’s your time?” was a question on Bryant’s mind toward the end of his career. He found the answer by . . .
Listening to His Body: For two decades, Bryant poured everything into the game—countless hours of practice, playing through injuries, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. But as the years wore on, his body began sending a message he could no longer ignore. Injuries mounted, recovery took longer, and the explosive quickness that once defined his game began to fade.
Listening to His Mind: When Kobe meditated before a game in the early years of his career, his thoughts were always focused on basketball. As he aged, he found his quiet thoughts turned to other areas of life. Basketball didn’t command his mind as it once did, which he interpreted as a sign it might be time to walk away.
Listening to His Results: In the 2014-15 season, after returning from a series of injuries, Bryant found himself struggling. Shots that once came effortlessly now required extra effort. His legs felt heavier, his movements less fluid, production turned downward.
Listening to His Gut: During one game, he felt it—this is it. The moment wasn't filled with regret, but rather a sense of peace. He knew his time had come.
Listening to His Heart: True to his nature, Kobe announced his retirement in a heartfelt poem, Dear Basketball, expressing gratitude for the game that had given him everything. He approached his final season with appreciation rather than desperation, soaking in every moment.
Grow! — Bryant’s decision to retire wasn’t about giving up—it was about recognizing when one chapter had ended, and another was ready to begin. And in a storybook ending, he delivered an unforgettable 60-point performance in his last game—one final reminder of the greatness that defined his career.
Two Questions
What signals—physical, mental, or emotional—indicate it's time for you to step away?
How can you walk away with dignity and a sense of fulfillment rather than regret?