A long, strange trip. http://amzn.to/2hHeNww
Book: Eleven Rings
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What a long strange trip it has been
In Eleven Rings, Phil Jackson uses a phrase made famous by the Grateful Dead. A long, strange trip. The line comes from their song Truckin’, and Jackson, a fan of the counterculture, borrows it to describe his journey from player to championship coach. Few careers follow a straight path, and his certainly did not.
Jackson played for the New York Knicks, explored Eastern philosophy and Native American traditions, and developed an unusual coaching style. He combined the triangle offence with meditation and team rituals. Along the way, he faced setbacks, criticism and moments of doubt before winning eleven championships.
Embracing your own long strange trip
Looking back, most lives look like strange trips. Unexpected jobs, chance meetings and detours often turn out to be decisive. Steve Jobs famously said that you can only connect the dots looking backwards. Therefore, the twists that feel confusing today may make sense later.
This perspective can ease pressure. Instead of demanding a perfect plan, we can stay curious and open. For example, a temporary job in an unfamiliar field might reveal a passion or build skills that become valuable years later.
Gratitude fits naturally here. Reflecting on the journey, including difficult moments, often reveals how much we have learned. Moreover, telling the story of our path helps others see that their own detours are normal.
Humour helps too. Calling life a strange trip invites a lighter attitude toward surprises and mistakes.
Companions make the trip meaningful. Jackson often credited players and staff for shared success, reminding us that journeys are rarely solo.
In the end, the phrase celebrates the unpredictable nature of life. Enjoy the ride, learn from the turns and remember that strange trips often lead to the most interesting destinations.
In short, detours are part of the story. Therefore, welcome them. For example, a failed project may lead to a better one. Moreover, unexpected paths often teach more than straight ones. Finally, remember that every great journey looks strange from the inside.
