There is a great article today on www.si.com discussing why Joe Girardi is a great fit for the New York Yankees. In essence, he can handle the pressure of the New York spotlight because he is unflappable, all business and has a calm demeanor. That got me to thinking…
We all face high pressure situations in our life, particularly in a team environment. To better assist you in navigating these potential treacherous waters, the following key success links should ease the pain of your journey and get you to brighter days more quickly.
- Yield To Authority. Rebellion is one of the natural default modes of the human experience. However, during tough times, there is no safer place to be that under the umbrella of protection of those in authority. Make a particular effort to make those above you successful and be proactive in seeing their vision become reality. You will be viewed as part of the solution, not part of the problem.
- Play To Your Strengths. Do what you do well. This will make the tough time as enjoyable as possible. It will also position you to achieve success that is measurable.
- Declare Victory. Momentum is generated by getting a series of wins under your belt. Find any reason to declare victory. Set daily goals that are achievable and start to advance the organizational agenda. Just do something that you can celebrate and generate positive momentum.
- Become Others Focused. When a basketball player is not shooting well, he can always play defense, rebound or cheer on his teammates. If you are “others focused”, there will always be a place for you because you are multiplying your influence and impact by serving the team.
- Positive Attitude. Leaders are dealers in hope. Always be optimistic and don’t walk around with slumped shoulders or a bad countenance. This is not a “pollyantic” approach but rather one that identifies the organization’s positives and builds on those strengths.
- Remember. We often lack perspective. When tough times arise, there is a tendency to focus on that which appears hopeless, get frustrated and lose composure. This is the importance of journaling. It provides a framework of previous experience that gives us confidence and solutions moving forward.
- Tithe. I am apologetically a Christian. God has proved himself faithful in the area of my finances. Malachi 3:11 states “I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, so that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field.” My friend Joe Sangl, owner of I Was Broke. Now I’m Not (http://www.josephsangl.com/) has counseled thousands of individuals in the area of their personal finances. He states he has never counseled a family who faithfully tithed. You truly cannot out give Jesus Christ. There is nothing else left to say.
Therefore, if you are having a tough week at work, or in athletics, or with your parents, apply these seven principles and you will find stability in the present and hope for the future.