Deloris Jordan once admitted that when her son Michael Jordan missed a certain family event she was happy. The party he missed was her eldest son, Ronnie Jordan’s retirement reception. For 31 years, Ronnie had dedicated his life to serving in the military. Hence, this party was a special moment of celebration for him. Deloris wanted her eldest son to have his moment. She once said, “Michael called and said his car broke down and I secretly thought, ‘Good, Ronnie will have the acknowledgment and attention he deserves.” No one blamed Jordan, but with the fame around him, it was natural for him to steal someone’s thunder. However, with this fame, came the aspect of being watched all the time. Hence, the reminder to ‘Keep your nose clean’.

To be akin to Michael Jordan is something many people strive for. This means they are constantly looking up to him and simultaneously studying each one of his moves. On the other hand, some people, especially reporters, always want to catch him at a vulnerable or weak position because, as the six-time champion puts it, negative news sells. With that said, His Airness parents helped him deal with the pressure of living in the limelight.

Michael Jordan on the lessons he learned from his mom and dad

Jordan revealed during a 2017 Uncut Interview with Marvin Shanken of Cigar Aficionado that he and his mother talk on call every day and at the end of each conversation, she tells him, “Keep your nose clean”. This has been a practice for years. Instead of ending the call with a ‘goodbye’, Deloris would always end the conversation with the words above. This has helped the billionaire stay grounded and realize that people are scrutinizing him all the time.

Following this, the five-time MVP spoke about a lesson his father taught him. It revolved around taking a moment and asking the question “what if” before making a move. This “what if” helps Jordan “deal with the consequences” of the decision he makes. He said, “You think about the consequences pro or con, you make the right decisions, that you feel is the right decision.”

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Despite being extremely careful with each resolve of his, Jordan doesn’t stop himself from living life to the fullest. He is simply thoughtful and mindful. The 14-time NBA All-Star continued to acknowledge the fact that not everyone will agree with the decisions he has made. But as long as he has looked into the ‘what if’ and is happy with his choice, that is all that matters at the end of the day.

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