Dicky Fox, the “late, great mentor” of Jerry Maguire from the movie of the same name, may have been a fictitious character but I think he would have made an excellent graduation speaker.

Throughout the 1996 movie we see flashbacks of Dicky sharing bits of wisdom as Jerry negotiates a rough time, both personally and professionally.

Like most advice, it’s simple to say, but much tougher to practice day in and day out:

1. “The key to this business is personal relationships.” Being genuinely interested in people and who they are is the key to building good relationships. It all starts with asking questions, listening to the answers, and looking for ways to help. The posture of wanting to help will always keep us in good standing with family, friends, clients and co-workers.
2. “Roll with the punches. Tomorrow is another day.” The hits, the punches – the problems – will come and they will hurt. But there is always tomorrow. Absorb the blows and keep moving.
3. “If the heart is empty, the head doesn’t matter.” Emotional safety and stability are key. It’s hard to concentrate on work or other things when the heart isn’t feeling it. This usually comes from the support of family and friends, spouses and kids. Work is better when things are good with the ones we love.

Dicky ends the movie with one final thought: “I don’t have all the answers. In life, to be honest, I have failed as much as I have succeeded. But I love my wife. I love my life. And I wish you my kind of success.”

Have a great week.

Kindest regards,