Two weeks ago I wrote about Keeping Your Eye on the Ball (click to read article) and incidentally mentioned how while playing tennis I had blisters on my feet. This prompted Randy to respond on my blog and share the following funny comment.
“Jon, excellent post. But…blisters? I was reminded of a Coach John Wooden principle that first you have to teach your players how to tie their shoes correctly — no one can play well and persevere with sore feet! THEN, you can keep your eyes on the ball!!”
As someone who has also studied the leadership of John Wooden I knew I had effectively been called out. Randy was right. Preparation is everything and you must not only focus on the ball but focus on the preparation and fundamentals that help you hit the ball most effectively.
So often we fail because we fail to prepare. We focus on hitting the ball but we forget to take the time to tie our shoes tight before the game starts.
I’ve heard it said that people spend more time planning their summer vacation than their life. We want success but we are either not willing or forget to do the little, ordinary and boring things that are essential to succeed.
My friend is the VP of sales of a fast growing company and a part of their business involves a customer service center. One of their essential service goals is for their employees to answer the phone within 2 rings.
“What happens if it goes beyond 2 rings,” I asked.
“It’s Code Red,” he said.
Their focus on the ordinary and boring details of their business has enabled them to thrive.
I encourage you to think about the boring but essential fundamentals of your business and job. Have you mastered them? Have your employees mastered them? How prepared are you? How much do you practice? Have you trained your team to be their best?
As Chuck Noll said, “Champions do ordinary things better than everyone else.”
If you and your team want to be your best you must master the obvious, excel at the ordinary and do the little things that 
create big results.
As for me, Randy’s blog comment made me go out and get a new pair of shoes that were a size smaller. And before each practice I make sure to tie them tight. Now, I’m truly prepared and ready to keep my eye on the ball. Thanks Randy!
Be Your Best and Bring Out the Best in Others,
Jon
Post Your Comments on this article here.
Share this on Twitter or Facebook.
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my Blog Updates! You can also follow me on Facebook or Twitter.
facebook 
twitter 
