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When You're On Top of Your Game, Change Your Game

Having managed sales teams for the majority of my career, I’m always intrigued by the secrets of high performing teams.

How is it that some leaders and coaches are able to harness the collective talent of a group of individuals to achieve desired outcomes whilst others are unable to do the same.

One of the most interesting books I’ve read is Legacy by James Kerr, which delves into the secrets of the all-mighty All Blacks. A group of elite sporting professionals who deliver time and time again, the execution of a strategy in an environment that is unpredictable and ever-changing.

It’s not luck… it’s not talent… it’s not even elite athleticism. It’s the commitment to a set of values and a common purpose that is deeply embedded in the hearts and minds of every player on the team. Most importantly it’s leadership at it’s finest. Leadership that empowers, that develops, that teaches but most importantly that listens. Leadership that delegates accountability and then unconditionally trusts each player with their own responsibility.

I won’t be able to do justice in explaining the principles that are the backbone of the All Black’s success but in summary, these are the 15 key messages:

Sweep the Sheds

Never be too big to do the small things that need to be done

Go for the Gap

When you’re on top of your game, change your game

Play with Purpose

Ask “Why”

Pass the Ball

Leadership creates leaders

Create a Learning Environment

Leaders are teachers

No Dickheads

Follow the spearhead

Embrace Expectations

Aim for the highest cloud

Train to Win

Practice under Pressure

Keep a Blue Head

Control your attention

Know thyself

Keep it Real

Sacrifice

Find something you would die for and give your life to it

Invent a Language

Sing your world into existence

Ritualise to Actualise

Create a culture

Be a Good Ancestor

Plant trees you will never see

Write your Legacy

This is your time

Although I’m not an avid sports fan, I am always moved by the humility and respect the All Blacks demonstrate on the field and you can understand why having aligned themselves to the above values.

To gain a deeper understanding  of the above principles, pick up a copy of :

LEGACY – WHAT THE ALL BLACKS CAN TEACH US ABOUT THE BUSINESS OF LIFE, James Kerr

 

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