Having Been Raised as a “Military Brat” Son in Army Bases Like West Germany, Shaquille O’Neal Presented Interesting Analogy for His Father’s Never Quit Teachings

Shaquille O’Neal dominated the NBA hardwood like none other. His ability to bulldoze past his opponents and finish with sheer power at the rim catapulted him to the apex. Whichever team the big man took his talents to, he was instrumental in their success. Diesel carved himself a legendary career that is studded with countless accolades and triumphs.

Shaq’s unwavering conviction was something that stuck out about him throughout his playing days. One may be certain and then some that the 7-foot behemoth will not give up no matter what. It is a motto he still follows to this day and has greatly benefited him in his corporate life. And according to Shaq, being raised by a drill sergeant instills that no-quit mindset in one.

The four-time NBA champion grew up without his biological father and was raised by his stepfather, Sergeant Philip A. Harrison. He was the one who introduced Shaq to basketball and instilled in him disciplinary ideals that set the tone for his life.

Furthermore, the big man even spent some time in the army bases of Germany, where his father was stationed.

Shaq has always spoken highly of Harrison. In fact, he gives him the majority of the credit for shaping him into the man he is today. He has also stated multiple times that being raised by a drill sergeant taught him never to quit.

During a recent interview, the 15-time NBA All-Star expressed the same thing, but this time he used an interesting analogy to paint us a clearer picture.

Shaquille O’Neal provides an interesting analogy for how his father taught him never to quit

Shaquille O’Neal recently made a visit to Australia and provided a dose of his wisdom to the Land Down Under. He conducted numerous interviews, giving Australians a fascinating glimpse into his life and career. One of the shows that Shaq was featured on was the “Be Better Off Show”, providing an insight into his life and the lessons he has learned in all these years.

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He talked about how goal setting and dreaming about his goals have played a big role in his life. Shaq then mentioned how being raised by a drill sergeant set the wheels in motion for him to achieve his dreams.

“When you grow with a drill sergeant, they prepare you on how to get things done,” said the Los Angeles Lakers legend. “And when you grow with a drill sergeant, you’re not allowed to quit, not allowed to get down on yourself,” he added.

Shaq then provided an intriguing analogy for his father’s never quit lessons.

“Let’s just say I had to swim across this lake and I didn’t make it the first time, I’m coming back tomorrow,” Shaq said pointing towards the lake behind him. “And if I made it to this point, and I’m trying to make it to this point and this point, and then one day, I’ll be able to swim across this with ease. So, you never give up,” he added.

Shaq continued by claiming that many people expect instant gratification whereas real workers must start from the bottom.

Shaquille O’Neal has certainly been an inspiration to many people. His unwavering work ethic, positive attitude towards life, and determination to never give up have propelled him to this point.

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