Jimmy Butler only has eyes for the future

TAKING motivation from a quote is one thing, but this NBA star has taken a popular inspiration to a whole new level, and the possible ramifications are severe.

Chicago Bulls v Charlotte Hornets

IT is not uncommon for athletes to use the odd motivational quote to give them direction in their sport. But when some take those quotes a bit too literally, things can get dangerous.

Such is the case for Chicago Bulls shooting guard Jimmy Butler.

The 26-year-old comes from a difficult background.

With a story described byESPN’s Nick Freidell as “the basketball version of ‘The Blind Side’,” Butler’s ascent into the NBA in 2011 did not come easily.

One of Chicago’s best last season, it is not surprising that he has a more than appreciative view on life. The forward’s attitude to “never looking back” has even inspired the likes of actor Mark Wahlberg, enough to get himself in on the Hollywood star’s famous entourage.

But it is his attitude to the past that has the potential to land Butler in serious hot water.

In a recent interview with Chicago Magazine, Butler told reporter Bryan Smith such is his passion in only having eyes for the future, that the Bulls star has actually removed the rearview mirror from his car.

“Still, he loathes reliving the past — so much so that he has removed the rearview mirror on his car (yes, really) as a symbolic reminder to never look back,” Smith wrote.

Obviously when you sign a five-year, $95 million contract, safety is not an issue.

While removing the rearview mirror is not illegal in Butler’s home state of Illinois, that doesn’t make it any less stupid. Let’s just hope his side mirrors stay attached.

Regardless, his motto looks like it is working wonders this NBA preseason.

Jimmy Butler with the steal and slam. #SEERED https://t.co/JhJqsfcqYk

— Bulls Nation (@BullsNationNet) October 20, 2015

REPORT: Jimmy Butler to make all the doors in his house one way only because he never stops going in.

— Brian Schroeder (@Cosmis) October 19, 2015