Bo Jackson Research Paper- Outliers

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Bo Hard or Go Home The epitome of a prestigious American athlete, extravagant cultural icon, and diligent self-made man, Bo Jackson defines the outlier label as seen through his journey from rural poverty to ultimate stardom. Whether he was furiously shaking off defenders in the National Football League or powerfully crushing fastballs over the fence in Major League Baseball, Jackson consistently shined during his career as a two-sport phenomenon. Despite the odds, Jackson rose to the peak of success, displaying what a determined, fearless attitude can accomplish. Contrary to common belief, Jackson’s driving force for success came from his underprivileged childhood of rural poverty in Alabama. The small town of Bessemer was home to young Bo, who was raised by a single mother struggling to support her large family. Being the lowest in the social food chain, Jackson had no where to look but up. Most people born into wealth take their status for granted, but Jackson, who was not so fortunate, hungered for something more in his lower-class state. Complacency seldom exists at the bottom, so most poverty stricken people either get into trouble searching for something greater, or they climb their way up through persistence and hard work. Bo was a natural talent at baseball, but it was this incredible work ethic that enabled him to surpass his peers. Jackson very well knew the requirements for such a remarkable success story, saying, “Set your goals high, and don’t stop until you get there.” However, young Bo was often digging himself into trouble. His mother threatened to send him off to reform school, so Jackson realized he needed to change his ways or be sent off. As a result, all the time he formerly spent getting into trouble was now directed towards sports – in addition to the energy he already put into athletics. The gridiron and the diamond provided
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