The TOP CTRL Mindset: 'Take CTRL or Be CTRLD'

April 17, 2024

The TOP CTRL Mindset is more than a saying or catchphrase—it’s a way of life. In today’s world, where people talk about entrepreneurship like it’s a trend, the true essence of control often gets lost. Social media showcases overnight success stories, but few talk about the grind, the failures, and the resilience it takes to truly build something of value. An entrepreneurial mindset isn’t about faking it for attention; it’s about taking charge of your future and never letting external forces dictate your path.

That’s exactly what TOP CTRL (To Optimize Peak Control) represents: Taking control of your life, your mindset, and your success. Because if you don’t, something or someone else will.

The Rock’s TOP CTRL Mindset: A Blueprint for Ownership

Look at Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. He had every reason to let life control him. By the time he was 23, he was broke, cut from the CFL, and had only $7 to his name. He could have played the victim. Instead, he took control. He pivoted to pro wrestling, took charge of his career, and became one of the biggest entertainment moguls in history.

The Rock didn’t just rely on talent; he mastered his work ethic. He built a brand around discipline, consistency, and refusing to let outside forces dictate his future. Whether it was training harder, learning the business side of entertainment, or strategically expanding into Hollywood, he made sure he controlled his opportunities—not the other way around.

[ Dwayne "The Rock Johnson | Image Source: Art Streiber/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images ]

His transition from wrestling to acting wasn’t immediate. He was initially typecast, struggling to find the right roles. But instead of accepting mediocrity, he reinvented himself, focusing on action films and eventually producing his own projects. I don’t like most of his movies, but I have nothing but respect for his hustle. Now, he’s one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood, with ventures spanning fitness, tequila, and even football ownership with the XFL. Every step of his journey has been about control—shaping his destiny rather than letting circumstances define him.

One key takeaway from The Rock’s journey is that he never let setbacks define him. He made a conscious decision to focus on personal growth and work ethic rather than external validation. His mindset aligns with TOP CTRL—a philosophy centered on never allowing doubt, fear, or society’s expectations to determine your success.

Shannon Sharpe’s TOP CTRL Mindset: Life After the NFL

Then there’s Shannon Sharpe. He dominated the NFL, but what happens when the sport ends? A lot of players fade into irrelevance, letting the game define their entire identity. Shannon? He created Club Shay Shay and NightCap with Chad 'Ochocinco' Johnson, turning himself into one of the most influential voices in sports media.

[ Shannon Sharpe | Image Source: Elizabeth Weinberg/GQ ]

He didn’t wait for someone to hand him an opportunity. He built his own. And now, he’s thriving because of it.

Sharpe is the perfect example of adapting, evolving, and staying in control. He didn’t let football be the peak of his career—he used it as a stepping stone. He had doubters, those who assumed he wouldn't succeed as a media personality, but he silenced them through preparation and authenticity. His shows blend humor, deep insight, and raw truth, setting him apart in an industry crowded with former athletes looking for relevance.

Sharpe’s TOP CTRL Mindset shines through in his ability to build an empire beyond sports. When one door closed, he forced another one open. He used his platform, his intellect, and his relentless work ethic to create something bigger than himself. That’s what taking control looks like—turning uncertainty into opportunity and proving that your worth isn’t dictated by one career, one job, or one moment.

Watch this 8½-minute clip of Shannon Sharpe getting emotional as he reflects on overcoming career setbacks and the importance of not judging others without knowing their journey. [ Watch Here ]

My Journey: From Setback to Taking Control

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset. But like many, I faced setbacks. In 2020, I went all-in on the fitness industry—only to realize it wasn’t my true calling. It stung, but I didn’t let failure define me.

Instead, I regrouped and created TOP CTRL—a brand built on the idea of self-mastery. This time, I took control from day one. I didn’t seek validation from family and friends before launching. I made sure my brand stood for something real. 'Take CTRL or Be CTRLD' isn’t just a slogan; it’s a reality. If you don’t control your mindset, your environment, and your decisions, the world will do it for you.

Building a brand isn’t just about designing products; it’s about establishing an identity. I spent weeks fine-tuning the brand’s mission, ensuring it aligned with my beliefs. From choosing high-quality materials to refining the message behind each piece, every decision had to reflect the essence of control and empowerment. And now, as I continue growing, I see firsthand how discipline and consistency dictate success more than luck ever could.

Trust me, there’s nothing I love more than a challenge, but TOP CTRL is nowhere near where I want it to be. It hasn’t even hit puberty yet. I’m proud of the idea and what I’ve built, but I’m not satisfied with the brand as a whole—there’s still a long way to go. The journey has been full of ups and downs, but the TOP CTRL Mindset is what keeps my head above water.

Developing the TOP CTRL Mindset

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: No one is coming to save you. Success isn’t about luck; it’s about positioning yourself to win. Whether it’s The Rock, Shannon Sharpe, or anyone who has built something meaningful, they all have one thing in common—they took control.

So ask yourself: Are you in control? Or are you letting circumstances, doubt, and fear dictate your moves?

You have the power to create, to transform your life, and to push past setbacks. But that takes action. It takes belief in your vision—especially when others don’t see it yet. The TOP CTRL Mindset is about refusing to let setbacks define you. The greatest success stories come from those who adapt, learn, and keep moving forward.

Practical Steps to Live the TOP CTRL Mindset

Taking control isn’t about waiting for the right moment—it’s about seizing what’s yours, making the hard choices, and owning the outcome. Here’s how to apply the TOP CTRL Mindset in real life:

Build Your Discipline – Motivation fades. Discipline stays. Structure your days like your future depends on it—because it does. Wake up earlier. Set deadlines. Follow through, no matter what.
Move Without Approval – Stop explaining your every move. Most people won’t get it. They’ll doubt, question, or ignore you—until they see results. Let your work do the talking.
Adapt or Stay Stuck – Setbacks? They’re inevitable. The difference between success and failure is how you respond. Adjust. Learn. Pivot. But never stay stagnant.
Own Every Decision – If you fail, it’s on you. If you succeed, it’s because you put in the work. Hold yourself accountable for every outcome. Not everything will be your fault, but it’s the best way to be real with yourself and stay in control.
Cut Dead Weight – Your circle can elevate you or drag you under. Be ruthless with who you let in. Energy, ambition, and mindset matter more than history or loyalty.