Fly Beyond Limits: The Saquon Barkley Story of Rising Higher

Dr. Cherry, Quite Contrary #ceowhisperher

In life, some people will try to put limits on you. They’ll tell you what you can’t do, what you’re too old for, or how you’re not worth what you know you bring to the table. But greatness doesn’t listen to limits—it rises above them. No one embodies this truth more than Saquon Barkley, who dared to bet on himself, walk away from a team that underestimated him, and prove the doubters wrong on the biggest stage.

Know Your Worth and Demand It

When Saquon Barkley made the bold choice to leave the New York Giants, he wasn’t just switching teams; he was sending a message. He knew his value, and when the Giants chose not to recognize it, he didn’t beg or settle—he soared. The Philadelphia Eagles believed in him, and Saquon gave them everything he had. The result? A player who not only matched their faith but exceeded it, carrying the team on his back all the way to the Super Bowl.

It’s a lesson for all of us: When others refuse to see your value, it’s your job to believe in yourself. You don’t need everyone’s approval to succeed. What you need is to find the right environment where your contributions are valued and respected.

Play the Game Your Way

Life is a game, and how you play it determines whether you win or lose. Saquon didn’t waste energy arguing with the Giants or trying to prove his worth to those who didn’t see it. Instead, he focused on what mattered—his work ethic, his dedication, and his belief in what he could achieve. When the Eagles gave him a chance, he showed up with everything he had and then some.

This is a powerful reminder for anyone feeling undervalued or overlooked: Don’t waste time trying to convince people who don’t see you. Focus on being undeniable.

Haters Are Just Spectators

After Saquon left the Giants, some people wrote him off. They said he was done. But here’s the thing: What others think of you is none of your business. Saquon’s focus wasn’t on the people bad-mouthing him—it was on proving himself to those who believed in him.

And now, as he heads to the Super Bowl with the Eagles, those same doubters will have no choice but to watch. While they sit in the stands, he’ll be flying high, showing the world what happens when you bet on yourself and win.

Bet On Yourself, But Be Honest With Yourself

There’s a deeper lesson here, too. As an executive coach, I’ve seen people stay in toxic situations, begging to be valued by teams or organizations that simply don’t care. I’ve also seen people blame everyone else when the problem is their own behavior. Saquon’s story is a call to be honest with yourself.

If you’re giving everything you have, if you’re contributing fully to the team, and still find yourself undervalued, it might be time to walk away. But if you find yourself in conflict with every team you join, take a moment to look in the mirror. Self-awareness is as critical to success as self-belief.

Play to Win, Not to Please

Saquon Barkley teaches us a final, powerful truth: Play for those who believe in you, not for those who try to control you. Life isn’t about pleasing everyone—it’s about winning on your terms. Love others, work hard, and never be afraid to make the bold move if it’s the right move.

The Eagles are flying high because they invested in someone who refused to let others dictate his worth. As they prepare for the Super Bowl, Saquon stands as a testament to what happens when you know your value, align with the right people, and play the game your way.

So, to anyone standing at a crossroads, wondering if they should stay or go, fight or walk away—remember this: When you bet on yourself and put in the work, you can win big. And when you win, the ones who doubted you will have no choice but to watch.