Be Your Self, Boldly
In final preparation for the 2010 NCCA finals between Duke and Butler, Coach K reminded his Duke team to remember what got them there. He encouraged them to (and I paraphrase) "Just be who you are, and you will attract what you want. Shoot YOUR bullets, be yourselves, don't lose touch with your instincts." In 30 years of coaching at Duke Coach K has won 760 games. That's an average of a little over 26 games per season. In an interview with Charlie Rose before this year's Final Four weekend he made the point that a competitive mind is like a glass of water. The coach's job is to add water to the glass but not to fill it with all he or she knows. The players must add to their own glasses with their skills and instincts. Coach K was particularly proud of this year's team because of the level of trust they had developed with each other, with the coaching staff, and most importantly with the talents and instincts which had gotten them to the Final Four. He clearly felt they were the Best Team They Could Be. And how did that work for them? Famously, I would say!
In our Country, we actually do have the freedom to Be Who We Really Are! And, that is pretty awesome! Along with that freedom comes a good measure of responsibility. Responsibility to challenge and redirect ourselves when we get off track. Responsibility to actually lead our lives, rather than living in reaction to all the stuff happening around us. And, the responsibility to live a principled and disciplined life. I am thinking that in great part, that is what set Duke apart from the rest. What can we borrow from Coach K to pull us into Our Best Decade Yet?
Inspired by Coach K, I challenged myself to first become the Best Version of Me that I Can Be. To become the Best Me, I have committed to Several Practices:
Intentionally appreciating all the good surrounding me, every day. When I take the time to notice the good, it seems the good stuff literally multiplies in front of my very eyes.
Being clear on what's most important to me and giving it my undivided attention. And that most certainly, includes "who" is most important to me, and making them a priority.
Being clear about my values and living them, not just prattling on about them. While my values are far easier to talk about than to live, like with anything else, practice, and more practice, eventually creates a habit. The plan is to continuously create more good habits.
Being okay with all that I'm not. This also requires that I learn to appreciate those who approach situations and circumstances from a different perspective, and surround myself with a few of them.
Following my instincts and leveraging my talents and strengths. I am reminded of the children's song I learned in Sunday school about not hiding my light under a bushel basket, but letting it shine, shine, shine!!!
Personally and professionally improving a bit each day. Little improvements accumulate and momentum builds. My Uncle, who is in his mid '80s, took up bike riding at the age of 83. With each ride, he becomes a little stronger and more confident as he rides along the Riverfront Trail.
And, finally.....Being Myself, Boldly.
Our colleague, Bob Branscom, may he rest in peace, designed a wonderful workshop, entitled Be Your Self, Boldly! He offered it to a local market, but he dreamed it would make a large difference in the lives of a lot of people. Perhaps by passing his message along to you, we will contribute to the fulfillment of his dream.
And now for your coaching challenge, should you choose to accept it.
Spend a little time thinking about what it means to you to become "the best version of you." Write it down and elaborate on it as I did in my list above.
Challenge Yourself to Live the Best Version of You! And, then, go ahead! Be Your Self Boldly!!!
By the way, if you want to give yourself a treat, here's the link to the Charlie Rose interview of Coach K...ENJOY!!! http://www.charlierose.com/view/interview/10946
We'll see you on line next Monday. Wishing You Your Best You Yet!!!
Cheers! Coach Jeanne
To learn more about experiencing Your Best Year Yet, contact jeanne@thequalitycoach.com
The Quality Coach!®, Celebrating over 20 Years of Coaching Great Leaders & Teams.