Who thought when Netflix set out to document the rise of cocaine trade in Colombia it would give binge-watching a whole new meaning! Narcos follows the gripping journey of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar and the relentless pursuit of the law enforcement officers as they battle the war on drugs.

The Spin off of Narcos released in 2018 and switched locations for the series to Mexico and follows the Guadalajara Cartel. Decades after his death, Pablo Escobar remains as talked about as he was during his heydays. Despite being a criminal, he worked harder than most people would ever imagine. Larger than life Escobar has valuable lessons for a lot of us to take home.

Rise To Power

Escobar was the son of a farmer and schoolteacher. He learnt the tricks of the trade by starting small. Once he knew he had what it takes there was no stopping him. A striking resemblance to the journey of a poker player; start off as a fish playing small poker stakes grinding your way up into a fierce shark playing higher stakes and remember, there are no shortcuts!

Life Lesson: Hard work is a two way street, you get back exactly what you put in.

Every Business Takes Serious Work

Most poker players start off with the notion that this is easy work. Well, your mistaken my friends and who says it better than the Columbian drug lord. Whether your selling drugs or playing poker or marketing cotton candy, you are going to need to put in an effort!

Life Lesson: 

If your are not going to put your best foot forward, don’t expect to bask in its rewards!

Also see: How To Play Poker

Mucho Dinero

Bigger the reward, the bigger the risks. At the peak of his power, the MedellÃn cartel earned an estimated $420 million a week. The numbers definitely caught the evil eye of many. Here’s the deal, don’t go to war with half your ammunition. If you have to fight, go the distance and make sure you actually win. In poker terms, be all in or all out.

Life Lesson:

Compromise or side stepping an issue only delays the problem temporarily.

Robin Hood was known for his philanthropic efforts, which earned him nickname Robin Hood. He is known to have built hospitals, stadiums, and housing for the poor in Columbia. Charity is synonymous with Poker, with professional players donating their winnings to various causes worldwide. The community also has an unspoken rule of helping each other and not taking unfair advantages.

Life Lesson:

Don’t forget where you come from. Help those in need and always have the back of those who support you.

Courage

Pablo’s courage goes undeterred, a take away for beginners on the felts. Having not played many poker hands, new poker players are often afraid to make a mistake or afraid to lose. Practice and strengthen that game and learn to trust your instincts.

Life Lesson:

Nothing gives the fearful more courage than another’s fear.

Hit the felts with this piece of mind and you shall be golden!

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