Recently, I interviewed Cocktail creator, Heywood Gould, and asked him what Doug Coughlin would tell aspiring pupils today.
Coughlin’s Laws are often recognized and quoted, even in the modern era. I’ve personally found it quite amusing when I share a Coughlin quote on social media, and someone responds, exclaiming their brilliance and admiration. My personal favorites among the laws are “Anything else is always something better” and “Never show surprise, never lose your cool.” These principles have proven valuable in navigating various situations.
When I was given the opportunity of a lifetime, to interview Cocktail creator Heywood Gould, I asked him: What would Doug Coughlin tell aspiring pupils if he were among us today? How would Coughlin’s Laws evolve to fit the nuances of the 21st century?
Heywood indicated that today, Coughlin’s teachings would take on a slightly different tone. While still emphasizing the art of manipulating and finessing situations, the context of the modern world may require a greater focus on strategic navigation and calculated decision-making. Coughlin would likely encourage aspiring individuals to identify who they can charm and discern those they don’t need, all while maintaining a more pragmatic and ambitious approach to their careers.
Furthermore, Coughlin’s experiences would have taught him the perils of solely chasing material wealth. Today’s society often places immense pressure on individuals to work tirelessly in pursuit of financial success. The advent of phenomena like overnight sensations on social platforms and the allure of lotteries has driven some to madness.
In light of this, Heywood imagines Coughlin advising against chasing unrealistic dreams or relying on chance to achieve success. Instead, he would encourage aspiring individuals to cultivate a solid plan, as a well-thought-out strategy is essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world.
While he possessed a relentless entrepreneurial spirit and was always ready to make deals, he came to realize the hollowness of his pursuits a little too late.
The Life and Times of Carson V. Heady 