Racing motocross has helped me become a better trial lawyer. What I learned will make you better in business.

Most of my friends know that I rode and raced motocross for more than 3 decades. Back in the day, I looked forward to competing in the 40+ vet series held each weekend on the different Southern California tracks.

I believe that some of the success I've found in court comes from the lessons and experiences gained on the motocross tracks. Each step is crucial for being competitive and earning a victory.

The Equipment and Track

Without a fast bike, winning the race is unlikely. If your equipment isn't properly set up and your suspension isn't adjusted for the day's track conditions, you're making each lap harder than necessary. Most racers walk or roll the track before a race to spot every rut in front of a jump and to determine which side of a turn or whoops offers better soil and traction opportunity.

The Start

A clean and fast start is critically important. It puts you ahead of the pack, sparing you from riding through dust and mud, which interferes with your view, and from rocks hitting your face and body. Another advantage of leading is avoiding accidents caused by the mistakes of other riders in the crowded first turn.

Putting Laps Together

As the race progresses, monitoring your bike's performance is crucial, as well as doing what's necessary to avoid arm pump and overall physical and mental fatigue. Among all the sports I've participated in, none match the excitement and physical and mental demands of motocross.

Paying Attention and Adjusting

Just as important as keeping track of your own performance, you must pay attention to all the other riders, trying to get a read on their physical and emotional conditions. Figuring out their lines and strategy, which evolves as the race develops and track conditions change, is key to staying upright, fast, and leading the pack.

The Finish

Getting a good start and staying competitive is important, but the ultimate goal is winning. At the end of the day, the only question that matters is whether you're standing on the podium. If you're not first, second, or third, holding up a trophy, it wasn't a successful race, regardless of what anyone says.

To ensure a strong finish, you must be smart and dig deep during the last five laps of the race. Avoiding unnecessary contact, clicking off clean laps, and not becoming too conservative are all essential for consistency and securing a top finish.

How This Works in Business

Just as a fast, well-tuned bike and familiarity with the track are essential in motocross, in the courtroom or business world, having the right tools and understanding your constantly changing environment set the stage for success.

A strong and clean start, whether in a race or in a trial or business venture, positions you ahead of the competition. Being out front and leading allows you to navigate challenges with a clear perspective and minimal interference.

Just like enduring the physical and strategic demands of a race and adjusting tactics after watching your competitors, succeeding in court or business requires persistence and the ability to change strategies based on careful observation and dealing with unexpected obstacles. Being well-prepared and flexible in your approach are crucial for anyone looking to be a winner, whether in sports, legal fights, or business challenges.

Between now and the next time your gate at the starting line drops, keep twisting the throttle and never stop hitting those triples and accelerating through the whoops in life!

Mitch Jackson | Lawyer and Private Mediator

?? Are we connected on LinkedIn? Do you receive my free "AI, Web3 and Metaverse Update" LinkedIn newsletter?