Young leaders often come into an organization with immense talent and potential. They also bring with them a sense of optimism that the organization will remain relevant and have a sustainable future. Talented young leaders are a breath of fresh air.
But because of limited life experience (which can’t be helped), young leaders can also lack perspective and the necessary wisdom to navigate certain leadership landmines. This is why wisdom and advice from those who have gone before them is so important.
Last night, Connor Bedard, considered to be a generational talent, was taken by the Chicago Blackhawks as the top overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. Mark Lazerus of The Athletic wrote an interesting article in which previous players also deemed as generational talents gave him advice.
Their advice is applicable to all young leaders regardless of their profession. The following are five pieces of career advice young leaders need to hear:
Keep It Simple
Jonathan Toews, the 2006 top pick of Blackhawks, said, “There are probably a lot of things, if I think about it, but the No. 1 thing I would say is to keep hockey No. 1. Keep your life simple. Nowadays, especially, it’s easy to get distracted. It’s easy to get wrapped up in a lifestyle — because your lifestyle will change pretty quick. There are a lot of people and a lot of things trying to grab your attention. Just keep it really simple. Focus on hockey. If you do that, things will progress, your game will get better, and you’ll get where you need to go.”
Toews continued, “You want to be a professional hockey player, then you can’t do it all. You’ve got to be really good at one thing, and you’ve just got to learn how to weed things out, different aspects of (life), even when it’s really hard. When you keep things simple, it’s easy to enjoy that life and be grateful for what you have. Even though it definitely comes at a price.”
Enjoy The Moments
Connor McDavid, the first pick of the Edmonton Oilers in 2015 and three-time Hart Trophy winner, said, “I put more pressure on myself than any of the expectations or whatever there was outside. It all came from within, and I’m sure (Bedard’s) the same way. He seems like he’s got a good head on his shoulders. He seems to know what he’s doing. I’d just tell him to enjoy it. It goes by quick. Just enjoy all the moments as you go through it.”
Be Patient
Jack Hughes, the top overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft by the New Jersey Devils, said, “Everyone’s path is different. He’s a great player and I’m sure he’ll come in next year and do pretty well. He’s going to be the top kid and he’ll do great. But it’s a tough league. It’s the best league in the world, so it’s a challenge, for sure.”
Continually Improve
Alexis, Lafreniere, the top overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft by the New York Rangers, said, “It’s not going to be easy. Obviously, it’s (a) really good league. There are plenty of good players. You have to stay patient, keep working on your game, and try to enjoy being here. We’re really lucky to play in this league, so you just have to enjoy it and work on your game. You’re going to get better.”
Focus On Your Job
Nico Hischier, 2017’s top overall pick by the New Jersey Devils, said, “Keep the focus on the team, and try to put away all that outside noise. You’ve just got to keep focusing and working hard on what the organization says. It’s a hard league. If you come in as an 18-year-old, you’re like a kid still, and you’re playing against men. So it’s definitely not easy. … Listen to the team, and not to all the outside noise. They want what’s best for you.”
Conclusion
If you or I could sit down with an immensely talented young leader, telling them to keep it simple, enjoy the moments, be patient, continually improve, and focus on your job would be really good advice.
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