I have finished some incredible books lately. Here is the list from the last two weeks:
- Gridiron Genius: A Master Class in Winning Championships and Building Dynasties in the NFL by Michael Lombardi is well, genius. Michael shares his leadership lessons on talent acquisition, culture, strategy and much more from his years of working for Bill Walsh, Al Davis, and Bill Belichick. Simply a must-read for anyone interested in leadership.
- No Limits: Blow the CAP Off Your Capacity by John Maxwell. His chapter on increasing your spiritual capacity is as good as anything you will read.
- Five-Point Play: Duke’s Journey to the 2001 National Championship by Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski. What I found fascinating about this book is how Coach K’s leadership principles in 2001 are as relevant today as they were then. Sound principles are timeless.
The book I am currently reading is Why The Best Are The Best: 25 Powerful Words That Impact, Inspire, And Define Champions by Kevin Eastman. Kevin was an assistant coach for the 2008 NBA champion Boston Celtics. He is a thought leader on basketball and leadership. Kevin is also a speaker to multiple audiences in the sports, business, and military communities. His book is outstanding!
One of the topics he discusses is the need to “master the bilities.” I want to share his thoughts with you. As you read, you will want to pick up a copy HERE on on the image provided.
The following are 11 Abilities The Very Best Leaders Have as told by Kevin Eastman:
- Responsibility – You must do your job completely.
- Accountability – You must take ownership of your words, actions, decisions, mistakes, and failures.
- Dependability – Can people count on you?
- Vulnerability – You do not have to always be right. You just need to get it right.
- Adaptability – Can you change and adjust as needed?
- Credibility – Your actions must match your words. Are you competent? Do you have integrity?
- Compatibility – You must value teamwork and understand what it takes to be a great teammate.
- Availability – My personal favorite. Are you first physically there. You then must bring all you have every day. Are you prepared to go every day?
- Stability – Do you have composure? Can you perform with emotion without being emotional?
- Capability – You must reach your maximum potential when it is most needed.
- Sustainability – Are you a “one-hit” wonder or can you deliver every day?
What is one thing from Kevin’s list you need to work on to become a better leader? And do not forget to pick up a copy of his book Why The Best Are The Best: 25 Powerful Words That Impact, Inspire, And Define Champions. You will be glad you did.