In this article from The Athletic, an unnamed NFL executive said of recently-benched Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, “The lesson is not starting a guy before he is ready to play the hardest position in sports, especially a guy who barely played in college.”
This illustrates a problem not only in the National Football League but in every other industry as well – the need to develop young leaders and position them for success.
The Athletic’s Jacob Robinson and Dianna Rossini’s research revealed three things previously unsuccessful quarterbacks/leaders who had success later in their careers had in common:
- 27 or older.
- In new organizations.
- Playing for new, offensive-minded coaches or impressive coordinators.
Let’s unpack these three items as they give us a picture of what is needed to position young leaders for success.
Evaluated Experience
Many times young leaders are in the processes of education and exposure. But exposure is never to be confused with experience. As young leaders gain and evaluate experience, they are positioned for more success.
Healthy Culture
I tell young leaders to look for healthy cultures, not just compensation packages. If you are part of a healthy culture, the money will come.
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell noted, “Organizations fail young quarterbacks before young quarterbacks fail organizations.” Even the most talented young leaders need healthy cultures to thrive. You cannot overcome dysfunctional environments.
Excellent Leadership
I also tell young leaders to look for excellent leadership more than dollars.
John Maxwell famously said it best, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” Just as young leaders cannot overcome unhealthy cultures, they cannot overcome poor leadership. It becomes a young leader’s lid.
An Insane Work Ethic
Here’s one more. Jayden Daniels has been a revelation for the Washington Commandeers this season. Most everyone reading this article will never have his athletic ability, but we can all learn from his preparation and do likewise.
This article from The Athletic discussed several of Daniels’ behaviors including arriving at the building each morning at 5:30 AM, sometimes even earlier. Teammate and future Hall Of Famer Bobby Wagner noted this was, “Not normal for most. Normal for the great ones.”
Great ones simply do things average ones don’t.
Conclusion
If you are a young leader and want to become a great leader, do the following:
- Gain experience and learn from it.
- Join a healthy culture.
- Follow and serve and excellent leader.
- Work hard. Come in early, stay late. Do the extra. Have a great attitude. Stand out.
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