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on March 14, 2022 in Performance

On this past Friday’s live edition of Smackdown originating from Birmingham, World Wrestling Entertainment superstar Big E (real name Ettore Ewen) suffered a broken neck after landing on his head outside of ring.  A video of incident is shown below.

Everyone watching on television or in-person immediately knew Big E was hurt and something was wrong.  Television cameras locked in on in-ring action for the remainder of Big E’s tag team match while emergency personnel assisted the wrestler on the floor.  During a commercial break, fans watched the wrestler being wheeled out on a stretcher.  People were slightly relieved and hopeful as Big E gave the “thumbs up” sign to the crowd.

https://twitter.com/JcsCommentary/status/1502704797660680194?s=20&t=980BshLpNVGpAa2jooGdkA

Shortly thereafter, Big E filmed a short video to give fans an update on his condition.  Sadly, though he had movement “in all his digits”, Big E had suffered a broken neck.  Watch the video below and I will then follow with a leadership perspective from this brave wrestler.

Leadership Lessons

The following are 5 thoughts on WWE professional wrestler Big E’s suffering a broken neck and how to handle difficult times:

Life is Paper-Tissue Thin

Big E is a world-class athlete and obviously in superior shape.  But pain, tragedy, misfortune, and difficult times do not discriminate.  Sooner or later, they unexpectedly visit all of us no matter how smart, talented, rich, or strong we may be.  Big E reminds us to be grateful for every moment we because life is paper-tissue thin.

Properly Evaluate Reality During Difficult Times

Though Big E was hopeful, he was also realistic.  He said, “I can move all my digits.  You see that?  That’s nice.  That’s always a good thing.  Strength feels fine but unfortunately right now, they tell me my neck is broken.  So there’s that.”  During difficult times we must all reach a point where we face reality and say, “So there’s that.”

Focus on Others During Difficult Times

The fact that Big E would be concerned about others and comfort them while he was in such pain and uncertainty is extraordinary.  Watching this video reminds us that the quickest way to lessen our problems is to place our emphasis on other people.  It doesn’t make the issues disappear, but it does make them easier to manage.

Stay Positive and Joyful During Difficult Times

As a performer, Big E’s gimmick is positivity.  Based upon the video above this clearly flows from his natural personality.  If Big E can stay positive in the midst of a broken neck, my problems seem less important.

Leaders Always Point to a Brighter During Difficult Times

A leadership fundamental is that if you are not pointing to a brighter tomorrow, why should anyone follow you?  Leaders must be dealers of hope, especially during difficult times.  Big E said, “I’ll be alright.  I’ll be good.  Don’t worry.  Go to sleep. Don’t worry about ‘ole me.”

In conclusion, I must restate that Big E’s focus on others and positive attitude after learning of a broken neck is simply extraordinary.  Our prayers are with him for a speedy and healthy recovery.  May we all handle our difficult times with half-as-much selflessness, positivity, and optimism as he did.

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