The Russell Westbrook Trap: Why Clinging to Past Success Can Kill Future Growth

There’s a fascinating and dangerous phenomenon I call “The Russell Westbrook Trap.” Named after the NBA star, it’s the challenge of letting go of the tools, methods, or identities that once made us successful but no longer serve us.

Russell Westbrook’s career is a perfect example. His triple-double stats are legendary. He’s one of the most electrifying players the league has ever seen. But here’s the hard truth: his style of play hasn’t consistently translated into team victories. In fact, it’s led to frequent trades and growing frustration from teams.

The trap here isn’t about talent, it's about attachment. We cling to the things that once defined us. Those wins, those recognitions, those milestones they become part of our identity. Letting them go feels like losing a piece of ourselves.

Success Breeds Attachment

When you’ve been rewarded for doing something a certain way, it’s incredibly hard to change even when the game has changed. I’ve seen this everywhere in business, in entertainment, and in our personal lives. People and organizations hold onto old playbooks because they fear losing the status they’ve built.

Think about it:

• A company keeps pushing its flagship product even though the market has moved on.

• An entertainer resists streaming platforms because it doesn’t fit their old business model (Steven Spielberg famously pushed back against Netflix’s disruption of Hollywood).
  A leader keeps leading the same way they always have, ignoring new dynamics and challenges.

It’s not about a lack of skill, it's about the discomfort of reimagining yourself in a new reality.

The Identity Lock

Our tools and methods often become part of who we are. Switching them out can feel like tearing away our identity. That’s why change isn’t just a strategic challenge it’s an emotional one.

The fear of slipping in status, of no longer being the best at what we’ve always done, pushes us toward safe, small wins instead of transformative leaps.

The Illusion of Progress

It’s like perfecting your breaststroke while being lapped in the pool. You might look great doing it, but you’re still losing the race.

Clinging to outdated metrics or styles might make us feel accomplished, but it blinds us to the bigger picture:
Are we actually winning? Are we truly creating impact?

The Antidote: Self-Disruption

Escaping the Russell Westbrook Trap requires something uncomfortable proactively disrupting yourself.

It means decoupling your identity from past successes, even if that means stepping down from the pedestal you’ve built. It’s about making space for experimentation, learning, and reinvention before the world forces it upon you.

And here’s the hardest part: you have to choose to do it yourself. You have to willingly let go of the very things that made you who you are today in order to become who you need to be tomorrow.

Final Thoughts

The Russell Westbrook Trap isn’t about basketball it’s about life, leadership, and innovation.

If you feel like you’re stuck, maybe you’re still holding onto an old version of yourself that’s no longer serving you. Let go of the highlight reel. Step into the next game.

Because the only thing more dangerous than failing is succeeding at something that no longer matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 - Why is it hard to let go of past success?

Past success becomes part of our identity. The tools and methods that once brought us recognition feel safe and familiar, so letting them go can feel like losing a part of ourselves.

2 - How does success create attachment?

When we’re rewarded for doing something a certain way, we build emotional and professional attachment to that approach. Over time, these habits become harder to change even when the world changes around us.

3 - How can I identify when my approach is outdated?

Look for signs like declining results, increased frustration, or changes in your industry that make your methods less effective. If you’re relying on old wins instead of creating new ones, it’s time to reassess.

4 - How can leaders adapt to new challenges?

Leaders can adapt by staying curious, encouraging experimentation, and being willing to let go of past playbooks. Embracing feedback and learning from different industries can also spark innovation.

5 - What’s the first step to self-disruption?

The first step is honest self-reflection acknowledging that what worked before might not work now, and being open to exploring new approaches.

6 - Can you reinvent yourself without starting over completely?

Yes, Reinvention doesn’t mean erasing your past, it means building on your experience while adapting to new realities and opportunities.

About the Author:

Shawn Kanungo is a globally recognized disruption strategist and keynote speaker who helps organizations adapt to change and leverage disruptive thinking. Named one of the "Best New Speakers" by the National Speakers Bureau, Shawn has spoken at some of the world's most innovative organizations, including IBM, Walmart, and 3M. His expertise in digital disruption strategies helps leaders navigate transformation and build resilience in an increasingly uncertain business environment.