When did we start playing for the name on the back of our jerseys instead of the front? When did the PART we play not include a WHOLE? When did we start finding value in competing against our own teammates, rather than with them? And when did we start using excuses over truth or reasoning? When did we stop taking responsibility or accountability?
Growing up, I learned that leadership was taking initiative as a part of something for the betterment of the whole. I learned that leadership is selfless, it's guidance, it's setting an example. It's taking criticism and turning it into strength and bravery. It's observing. It's taking your own mistakes and asking how to change them. It's observing others mistakes and learning from them. It's about not letting our own pride stand in the way of being there for the rest of the team.
It's about casting out your characteristics, and putting yourself out there without the fear of failure. It's about letting go of excuses and holding on to faith and perseverance. It's about being resilient. It's about taking a bad day and making the next one better with no exception. I never felt a sense of entitlement. We were aware of our own talents and flaws, but we learned the talents and flaws of our teammates as well, because only then could we reach our full potential. Ego was not boisterous, and we were encouraging rather than discouraging.
Leadership taught me about being appreciative, not how to demand it. It taught me how to excel in life. It taught me that my individual strength has value for not only me, but as an asset to my network or team. You don't outgrow leadership...it manifests itself into all aspects of your life. If you choose to internalize leadership, then you might ultimately be choosing to short yourself of the skills it takes to be successful in a world made ip of all sorts of teams, traditions and networks.
No matter what kind of team you are a part of, whether it is sports, work, family, group, band...etc, you are a part of something bigger than yourself! You are representing your family, school, company, community, or organization. You represent the pride and traditions of something others built for you before your time, so who are you to tarnish that with your unappreciative attitude? You cannot stand tall if you cannot learn to rise with your team.
As for me, I'd build my team/network from heart, drive, motivation, discipline, adaptability, and selflessness over strictly talent ANY day! If I had a team who possessed all the talent in the world and felt entitled to their earnings, it would be hard to convince them I could teach them anything more. Those who have heart...they are the ones that crave personal growth. Plant your seeds wisely.
