In Tulsa King, a show that balances grit and resilience through the eyes of Dwight “The General” Manfredi, Sylvester Stallone’s character drops countless gems of wisdom along his journey. One line, in particular, resonates deeply with those who live by the TOP CTRL philosophy: “We don’t wait for permission.”
This quote embodies the relentless, forward-thinking approach that drives TOP CTRL—the idea that success is not something you wait for, but something you go out and take. It’s a philosophy that encourages seizing opportunities, acting with confidence, and trusting your instincts, regardless of the obstacles you may face.
This blog will explore how Dwight’s line from Tulsa King reflects the core principles of TOP CTRL and why taking ownership of your life, rather than waiting for validation or permission, is crucial in overcoming challenges and achieving your highest potential.
What Does It Mean to “Not Wait for Permission”?
In the context of Tulsa King, Dwight Manfredi is a man out of time, having spent 25 years in prison only to be thrust into a world that has moved on without him. Yet, instead of being bogged down by the limitations of his situation or waiting for an opportune moment to act, he makes bold moves to regain control of his life. His philosophy, captured in “We don’t wait for permission,” is a reflection of how individuals can reclaim their power by refusing to let circumstances dictate their path.
This philosophy isn’t just for fictional mobsters or characters in a TV show; it applies to everyday life. Too often, people feel stuck waiting for external validation—whether it’s permission from a boss, recognition from peers, or approval from family or friends. But TOP CTRL teaches that real power comes from taking initiative and making decisive moves, regardless of whether others give you the green light.
The Core of TOP CTRL: Seizing Opportunities
In the world of TOP CTRL, waiting for the perfect moment or someone’s approval can be paralyzing. The philosophy encourages action, resilience, and self-reliance. Much like Dwight’s approach in Tulsa King, TOP CTRL pushes you to identify opportunities, no matter how small, and capitalize on them without hesitation. This doesn’t mean acting recklessly, but rather taking calculated risks and trusting your ability to navigate uncertainty.
By owning your actions and refusing to wait for someone else’s nod, you cultivate confidence and momentum. This is especially important when striving to achieve goals that require mental fortitude, personal accountability, or entrepreneurial spirit.
Think of any great entrepreneur, athlete, or innovator—they didn’t wait for permission to pursue their vision. They took control of their situation and acted, often before the world could see what they were building. This mindset applies whether you’re starting a business, pursuing a passion, or simply striving to become a better version of yourself.
Overcoming Obstacles Without Approval
One of the core elements of TOP CTRL is facing challenges head-on without waiting for ideal conditions or validation. In Tulsa King, Dwight operates within a harsh, unforgiving world. He’s exiled to Tulsa, cut off from the life he once knew, and surrounded by new threats. But instead of dwelling on what’s been lost or waiting for the right opportunity, he acts decisively. He builds relationships, leverages his past experiences, and takes control of situations even when the odds are stacked against him.
In our own lives, obstacles often seem insurmountable because we believe we need someone else’s approval or a set of perfect circumstances before we can proceed. The *Top Control* mentality teaches that there is never a perfect time. Life is messy, unpredictable, and full of roadblocks. Success comes from facing these challenges head-on, not from waiting for things to get easier.
When you embrace this mindset, you empower yourself to overcome hurdles. You stop waiting for permission, validation, or external circumstances to change and start making things happen for yourself.
Practical Steps to Take CTRL of Your Life
1. Set Clear Goals Important To YOU: Define what success means to you. It’s easier to take action when you have a clear vision of where you want to go.
2. Trust Your Instincts: Don’t second-guess your decisions based on the opinions of others. Trust that you know what’s best for you and that your instincts will guide you toward the right path.
3. Take Risks: While it’s important to take action, that doesn’t mean acting without thought. Assess the situation, consider potential outcomes, and then take bold, calculated steps.
4. Accept Failure: Waiting for permission often stems from a fear of failure. But failure is a natural part of growth. Instead of fearing it, embrace it as a learning opportunity that will propel you forward.
5. Stop Seeking Validation: The need for approval from others can keep you stuck in place. Break free from this mindset by focusing on your own goals and values, rather than waiting for others to validate your decisions.
Conclusion: CTRL Your Own Destiny
In Tulsa King, Dwight’s line “We don’t wait for permission” is a powerful reminder that true control over one’s life comes from within. It echoes the fundamental beliefs of TOP CTRL—that waiting for external permission, validation, or the perfect moment can leave you stagnant and powerless.
The TOP CTRL philosophy teaches that life is full of unpredictable challenges, and the only way to rise above them is by taking decisive action. Whether you’re launching a business, embarking on a personal journey, or simply trying to improve your everyday life, the power to move forward is in your hands.
Don’t wait for permission. Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Take control, seize opportunities, and chart your own path to success.
~ Take CTRL or Be CTRLD ~