When Nick Saban was a high school sophomore quarterback, he called the plays for his high school football team. At the end of that year, he found himself in the state championship and behind with seconds left in the game. It was fourth down, and his coach called their final timeout. As he jogged over, he thought, “Great, the coach is going to call the last play.” Instead, he asked young Nick what play he wanted to call. Then he said he didn’t care what play he called, but that he had the fastest halfback in the state and a three-time All-State wide receiver, and the ball should end up in one of their hands. Sure enough, young Nick threw a touchdown pass to the wide receiver with no time left to win the game. After the game, the coach came up to him and said, “When the game is on the line, it’s the players, not the play, that is important.”
When I heard Coach Saban tell this story, I immediately recognized it as another valuable lesson that applies to how we should run our organizations. It’s essential to have a great business plan and great sales strategies. However, it is the team that has to perform and implement those plans and strategies that ultimately make the difference. Are you doing everything possible to ensure that your players are ready to implement your plans and strategies? Are those plans reflective of the organization’s values and principles? All of this must be clearly and concisely communicated to your team so they can perform at a high level.
How do we make this happen and become your standard? One way to learn more would be to purchase a copy of my book or schedule a complimentary call with me, during which we can discuss how I’ve helped numerous companies and individuals transform their plans into game-winning strategies.
Until next time, keep the main thing, the main thing, and bring the best version of yourself to the game every day!
Joe (JM) Fields
The Bucketlist Coach