As I wrapped up the 3rd Season of Better Call Saul, I am reminded of one of the components of Breaking Bad that had me enthralled.

I am referring to the Character Gustavo Fring (played by Giancarlo Esposito).

I really enjoyed that villainous character, Gus Fring. Heels and villains always draw a lot of interest; the best ones make you consider the spectrum of their humanity as it relates to their negative traits. This show was no different, and it can be argued that the show’s hero (or protagonist) Walter White was actually the real villain. But, that’s a discussion for another day.

My girlfriend asked me why I like the character so much.

My response is that I have a deep appreciation for his cerebral manner. I like how collected he always seems to be no matter the intensity or urgency of the situation. I also appreciate his strategic mind (something I strive to do in my work at Integrated Designs). He was always steps ahead of people who prided themselves on being steps ahead of everyone. So, it wasn’t just that he was a judicious person, but that he was extensively more tactical than the other most strategic people. It reminds me of something that David Goggins said on the Joe Rogan podcast; he described his mindset on competition. David Goggins explained that his goal is to become uncommon among uncommon people. The character, Gus, is a good example of being uncommon amongst uncommon people.

But, I’ve come to realize that the reason I like him is for a far more rudimentary reason – his DISC profile aligns with mine. As we know, people tend to be biased towards others who remind them of themselves. If I ascribed to villainy, I believe I would most like Gus Fring and least like The Joker.

Although, I’d be much less competent than Gus lol let’s be honest.

One of my favorite quotes about men’s role in life comes from Gus:

What does a man do, Walter? A man provides for his family. A man provides. And he does it even when he’s not appreciated, or respected, or even loved. He simply bears up, and he does it. Because, he’s a man.

Well said, Gus. Well said.