There was a Nike ad I saw this week in Sports Illustrated that is the title of today's blog. It sums up this piece I had rolling around in my head since Duke won the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship a couple of week's ago. Duke has been a perennial powerhouse in college basketball, though there has been a drought the past six years-no trips to the final four. 2010 put things back in order.
Duke is lead by their coach Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K). He had been there 30 years, nearly half his adult life. In that time, Duke has won 4 National Conferences (including 2010), been to the Final Four 11 times; have been in 12 Elite 8's, won the ACC Conference Championship 12 times and the regular season 12 times. They play meaningful games almost every night. To be this effective, there must be a system.
Whether you like Duke or not, you must respect what they've accomplished. The men on this team typically graduate and most don't have a career in the NBA. He brings in players that will excel in his system, not be standouts who will leave after their freshman year. He is a tactician, a motivator, and has a system that works. On occasion, he tweaks the system but there is no doubt it is his.
Every successful organization has a system in place in order to replicate success. One of the hardest thing for small organizations is to take the time to create processes that still allows creativity and the flow of new products. It's a delicate balance that many organizations can't achieve which stymies or extinguishes growth. Every organization needs a Coach K at a leadership level that will create and execute a successful system. What kind of order does your organization have? Maybe its time to create some.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Sometimes, The Best Person Wins!
I don't watch much golf, but for some reason I always seem to watch the Masters and US Open. I had a run in my youth where I saw three out of four US Opens in a row. Incredible courses and incredible golf. Perhaps heading to Augusta is on my bucket list-but that's not the point of today's blog.
The Master's has been hyped for weeks as the return of Tiger Woods. Against all odds, he actually played well and kept himself in the tournament until late today. Fortunately, that's not the story. Today, Phil Mickelson won his third Masters. He is such a likable guy and like most of us on the golf course, takes shots that defy logic. In many of the major tournaments, those shots fail. He has finished second or tied for second five times at the US Open including last year. You may recall that his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer a few weeks before the tournament.
Phil is an easy guy to root for. He seems like a regular guy who grinds his way to wins. Today he took the same shots he did at the US Open last year, but made them. On the 13th hole, after hitting his fourth tee shot into the woods, he made an impossible shot between trees and landed on the green. Pure Phil.
His wife continues to battle breast cancer and last July, his Mom was diagnosed with it also. If anyone should have won today it was Phil Mickelson. The embrace and tears after his win with Amy (his wife) was touching. Reminiscent of Tiger's emotions after his father died.
Who in your organization deserves to "win?" Most of us have people who battle personal issues but come in every day to do their best. Perhaps they have ailing parents and a special needs child. Maybe they've overcome an addiction and fight it every day. In our own way, we need to reach out and let them know they're appreciated-that they're making a difference for the organization. We all want to see our teammates do well-what should we be doing to support them? Just like Phil, the best person needs a win.
The Master's has been hyped for weeks as the return of Tiger Woods. Against all odds, he actually played well and kept himself in the tournament until late today. Fortunately, that's not the story. Today, Phil Mickelson won his third Masters. He is such a likable guy and like most of us on the golf course, takes shots that defy logic. In many of the major tournaments, those shots fail. He has finished second or tied for second five times at the US Open including last year. You may recall that his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer a few weeks before the tournament.
Phil is an easy guy to root for. He seems like a regular guy who grinds his way to wins. Today he took the same shots he did at the US Open last year, but made them. On the 13th hole, after hitting his fourth tee shot into the woods, he made an impossible shot between trees and landed on the green. Pure Phil.
His wife continues to battle breast cancer and last July, his Mom was diagnosed with it also. If anyone should have won today it was Phil Mickelson. The embrace and tears after his win with Amy (his wife) was touching. Reminiscent of Tiger's emotions after his father died.
Who in your organization deserves to "win?" Most of us have people who battle personal issues but come in every day to do their best. Perhaps they have ailing parents and a special needs child. Maybe they've overcome an addiction and fight it every day. In our own way, we need to reach out and let them know they're appreciated-that they're making a difference for the organization. We all want to see our teammates do well-what should we be doing to support them? Just like Phil, the best person needs a win.
Monday, April 5, 2010
The Best Day of the Year
Everyone has a favorite day. Perhaps it's your birthday, a holiday, etc. Today, is my favorite day. This is the day that baseball opens (officially) and the college basketball champion is crowned. It is a day of optimism, enthusiasm, pride, patriotic fervor and a chance to finally shake the winter.
This is a day that I've been anticipating for weeks, if not months. If I had thought it through, I would have taken the day off and watched 10 hours of baseball, taking a break to watch the first hour of "24" then settle in for the men's National Basketball Championship. I would have eaten a lot of junk food, monitored my blood sugar to make sure I would live to see tomorrow then struggled the rest of the week with my normal sleep patterns. It would have been a fine day. I'll have to write a note to myself to do it next year.
To be fair, I don't watch college basketball until mid-March. I play a pool and am usually humiliated, but have fun trying. There is so much about life that gets played out in 2+ weeks of the NCAA tournament. Hard work, determination, preparation and the feeling that on any given day, David can beat Goliath. I'm not sure that will play out tonight (Butler vs. Duke) but it's a nice thought. What I do know is that the tournament is the perfect lead in to my favorite sport-baseball. Today there are 13 games starting with the Nationals hosting the Phillies and ending with Seattle at Oakland. Thus, the long and winding road of 162 games culminating with the playoffs and World Series. Life is good!
What is your favorite day? Does your organization have a favorite day? We all need to look forward to something out of the ordinary that recharges our batteries and gives us a positive outlook on life. For many, this is done on personal time. Nothing wrong with that. Forward thinking organizations need to create days that bring a sense of fulfillment while helping to invigorate our thinking. It could be a retreat or training but it should help to motivate all your employees. Clearly, it's easier to do in small organizations but that shouldn't stop us from trying.
Enjoy today-no matter your motivation, interests or passions. I'll revel in the fact it's the best day of my year.
This is a day that I've been anticipating for weeks, if not months. If I had thought it through, I would have taken the day off and watched 10 hours of baseball, taking a break to watch the first hour of "24" then settle in for the men's National Basketball Championship. I would have eaten a lot of junk food, monitored my blood sugar to make sure I would live to see tomorrow then struggled the rest of the week with my normal sleep patterns. It would have been a fine day. I'll have to write a note to myself to do it next year.
To be fair, I don't watch college basketball until mid-March. I play a pool and am usually humiliated, but have fun trying. There is so much about life that gets played out in 2+ weeks of the NCAA tournament. Hard work, determination, preparation and the feeling that on any given day, David can beat Goliath. I'm not sure that will play out tonight (Butler vs. Duke) but it's a nice thought. What I do know is that the tournament is the perfect lead in to my favorite sport-baseball. Today there are 13 games starting with the Nationals hosting the Phillies and ending with Seattle at Oakland. Thus, the long and winding road of 162 games culminating with the playoffs and World Series. Life is good!
What is your favorite day? Does your organization have a favorite day? We all need to look forward to something out of the ordinary that recharges our batteries and gives us a positive outlook on life. For many, this is done on personal time. Nothing wrong with that. Forward thinking organizations need to create days that bring a sense of fulfillment while helping to invigorate our thinking. It could be a retreat or training but it should help to motivate all your employees. Clearly, it's easier to do in small organizations but that shouldn't stop us from trying.
Enjoy today-no matter your motivation, interests or passions. I'll revel in the fact it's the best day of my year.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Birthday Celebrations
This is a big week for our family. It turns out that my parents were born six days and four years apart. This Friday, my Dad turns 80 and last week my Mom turned 76. I probably get no points for stating their ages, but both are milestones to be celebrated. These are special days for both, with many experiences between them. Thankfully, both are in good health and stay active.
When one looks back on their lives, there are lessons and experiences that stick with us. Both of my parents were born and raised during the Great Depression. As many of you know, those raised during that time tend to be conservative with their money, have a great work ethic, and never want to be without again. My mom's side had it a bit easier than my dad's family, though the impressions formed run deep. Like many families, they never knew they were poor or did without. This allows one to grow up without airs or feeling like you need to catch up with others.
My parents represent the baby boomers and part of the "Greatest Generation." They have worked hard all their lives, put three kids through school, supported us when necessary, and provide an on-going example of how to live your life. They don't ask much in return and probably don't get much back. They have lead by example all their life and my siblings and I are better off for it.
Birthdays are a time of reflection and hope. We celebrate the past and hope it has positioned us well for the future. When you're 80 and 76, there is much to celebrate. I suppose one wonders about their legacy, did they make good decisions, and what if they had to do it all over again? We all make decisions throughout our lives that define who we are and what we have to give. My parents are no exception. My Dad was in the Marines then went to Virginia Tech. He met my Mom and then took a job with Chrysler in Detroit. For thirty-two years he worked there, and created a life for themselves in Michigan. In 1996, they moved back to Virginia to Williamsburg, about an hour north of where they were raised.
Who knows how many years they have left? By the looks of both of them-I'd say many. I can attest they have made good decisions and don't need to consider "what-ifs." I'm proud to be their son and thank them for all their love and support. I guess that's the best way to say thanks and repay them for all they've done and given to me. Join me in celebrating their birthdays and let's hope there are many more.
When one looks back on their lives, there are lessons and experiences that stick with us. Both of my parents were born and raised during the Great Depression. As many of you know, those raised during that time tend to be conservative with their money, have a great work ethic, and never want to be without again. My mom's side had it a bit easier than my dad's family, though the impressions formed run deep. Like many families, they never knew they were poor or did without. This allows one to grow up without airs or feeling like you need to catch up with others.
My parents represent the baby boomers and part of the "Greatest Generation." They have worked hard all their lives, put three kids through school, supported us when necessary, and provide an on-going example of how to live your life. They don't ask much in return and probably don't get much back. They have lead by example all their life and my siblings and I are better off for it.
Birthdays are a time of reflection and hope. We celebrate the past and hope it has positioned us well for the future. When you're 80 and 76, there is much to celebrate. I suppose one wonders about their legacy, did they make good decisions, and what if they had to do it all over again? We all make decisions throughout our lives that define who we are and what we have to give. My parents are no exception. My Dad was in the Marines then went to Virginia Tech. He met my Mom and then took a job with Chrysler in Detroit. For thirty-two years he worked there, and created a life for themselves in Michigan. In 1996, they moved back to Virginia to Williamsburg, about an hour north of where they were raised.
Who knows how many years they have left? By the looks of both of them-I'd say many. I can attest they have made good decisions and don't need to consider "what-ifs." I'm proud to be their son and thank them for all their love and support. I guess that's the best way to say thanks and repay them for all they've done and given to me. Join me in celebrating their birthdays and let's hope there are many more.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Nothing Left to Lose!
The first weekend of the NCAA men's basketball tournament is a sports junkie's dream. For 96 hours, 32 games are played where anything and everything can happen. Just ask the men of the University of Kansas. They were the best team in America according to every poll and now they sit and watch. Murray State and Michigan State have won games at the buzzer. This is sports at its finest.
In my mind, no team has been more impressive than Cornell from the Ivy League. Typically, the Ivy League sends their champ to be a sacrificial lamb for a big school on their way to the final four. This year, Cornell dominated their opponents with a 27-4 record. On Friday, they whipped Temple and did the same on Sunday to Wisconsin (Big Ten). Next stop, Kentucky on Thursday night. I suspect teams like Cornell feel like they are playing with house money. They have nothing to lose. They have already gone much further than anyone thought. Now, they play on the national stage against one of the great basketball programs in the country. Expectations are low and their intensity will be high.
This reminds me of start up organizations. While their owners have a lot to lose, they're not given much credit (initially) in the marketplace. The organization is intensely focused on product launches, sales and effectively utilizing cash (or at least should be). It is hard to keep this intensity for long and soon process and ritual take over. Many organizations would be better off having the entrepreneurial mentality and going for broke. Most organizations settle into a certain pace where ultimately, mediocrity is the standard.
When making a decision this week, figure out how to light a fire under your organization and play like you have nothing left to lose.
In my mind, no team has been more impressive than Cornell from the Ivy League. Typically, the Ivy League sends their champ to be a sacrificial lamb for a big school on their way to the final four. This year, Cornell dominated their opponents with a 27-4 record. On Friday, they whipped Temple and did the same on Sunday to Wisconsin (Big Ten). Next stop, Kentucky on Thursday night. I suspect teams like Cornell feel like they are playing with house money. They have nothing to lose. They have already gone much further than anyone thought. Now, they play on the national stage against one of the great basketball programs in the country. Expectations are low and their intensity will be high.
This reminds me of start up organizations. While their owners have a lot to lose, they're not given much credit (initially) in the marketplace. The organization is intensely focused on product launches, sales and effectively utilizing cash (or at least should be). It is hard to keep this intensity for long and soon process and ritual take over. Many organizations would be better off having the entrepreneurial mentality and going for broke. Most organizations settle into a certain pace where ultimately, mediocrity is the standard.
When making a decision this week, figure out how to light a fire under your organization and play like you have nothing left to lose.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Warning Signs
On February 27th, a Georgetown University junior named Austin Freeman was suffering from a cold and stomach virus-like symptoms. He is their leading scorer with an average of 17.3 points per game. He had to take intravenous fluids to come off the bench against Notre Dame. By all reports, he was shaky and pale while scoring five points in 23 minutes. Two days later, he was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with Type II Diabetes. He is 20 years old.
A couple of days earlier I felt chest pressure, numbness in my left arm and numbness in both pinkies. The chest pressure took me to the hospital. My heart is fine, but I was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes. I am 51 years old. Diabetes is a serious condition, but not life threatening. It requires a change in diet, exercise, and constant monitoring of your blood sugar. I was self injecting insulin for the first week of my diagnosis, but now take oral medication twice a day. There a things I have to watch for and understand how my body reacts to foods-but all manageable. The good news is that I've lost weight and maintaining it along with an improvement in eyesight. Go figure.
Michael Wilbon of the Washington Post wrote an excellent column on Austin Freeman, other athletes with Diabetes and his own diagnosis a couple of years ago. Click here for the link to his column. The good news for all of us and many of the 285 million people across the globe is that we know what we have and if we take responsibility, can control it. There are many who have it much worse, some who don't realize it.
Are there warning signs of disease in your organization? Is there less enthusiasm than normal? Is absenteeism up? Are people taking calls on their cellphones outside of the office? Are there more whispers around the water cooler? Leadership's first reaction may be to get angry and challenge folks. Look deeper-perhaps you're the cause. I find that there are buoys everyone in life-many are in the workplace. Look to read those buoys and react accordingly. Sometimes we make a decision without understanding the consequences. Think about the warning signs and get help. Many diseases are controllable-both in the body and the organization.
A couple of days earlier I felt chest pressure, numbness in my left arm and numbness in both pinkies. The chest pressure took me to the hospital. My heart is fine, but I was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes. I am 51 years old. Diabetes is a serious condition, but not life threatening. It requires a change in diet, exercise, and constant monitoring of your blood sugar. I was self injecting insulin for the first week of my diagnosis, but now take oral medication twice a day. There a things I have to watch for and understand how my body reacts to foods-but all manageable. The good news is that I've lost weight and maintaining it along with an improvement in eyesight. Go figure.
Michael Wilbon of the Washington Post wrote an excellent column on Austin Freeman, other athletes with Diabetes and his own diagnosis a couple of years ago. Click here for the link to his column. The good news for all of us and many of the 285 million people across the globe is that we know what we have and if we take responsibility, can control it. There are many who have it much worse, some who don't realize it.
Are there warning signs of disease in your organization? Is there less enthusiasm than normal? Is absenteeism up? Are people taking calls on their cellphones outside of the office? Are there more whispers around the water cooler? Leadership's first reaction may be to get angry and challenge folks. Look deeper-perhaps you're the cause. I find that there are buoys everyone in life-many are in the workplace. Look to read those buoys and react accordingly. Sometimes we make a decision without understanding the consequences. Think about the warning signs and get help. Many diseases are controllable-both in the body and the organization.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Rae Burton
It's time for another profile. As I mentioned last month, I had the thought of writing a book and went about the business of interviewing those who have had a positive influence on me. This profile is about Rae Burton, a retired PPG Industries Vice-President, who I met in 1993 when I transferred to Lake Charles, LA. I reported to Rae through my plant manager, then on a dotted line basis when I was the Information Technology for the Chemicals division.
Rae is an "old school" guy who believes in personal relationships. Your word is your honor. He used the phone and travelled extensively to personally meet with customers, suppliers and his team. My first and lasting impression of Rae is that you had to be prepared and know your stuff. He doesn't suffer fools easily and helped me understand that preparation is the key to success. There are no free rides with Rae. You have to work for respect. He will not ask a person to do anything he wouldn't or hasn't done himself.
He is from San Antonio, TX with a degree from the University of Texas in Chemical Engineering and Business. He then went into the Navy for four years after graduation. Once leaving the Navy, he found PPG and stayed for 32 years, retiring in 2004. He picked PPG from the handful of offers because he felt they listened to him in the interviews and understood what he looked for in a career. He also felt they had high ethical standards, which would be supported throughout his career.
I'm a better person and leader because of Rae. I may not have always agreed with his methods, but he taught me that consistency and adherence to high ethical standards is a foundation for personal and professional success. With Rae, ethics are not situational. I define integrity as being true to your actions. Rae exemplified that core value for me. He would not tolerate unethical behavior and always moved quickly to root it out of his organizations. In addition, he lead his divisions to high levels of profitability year in and year out. I think of him often and hope I have the character to stick to my core values in every situation.
I wish Rae well and glad we had the chance to connect a couple of years ago. I know he is enjoying the three "g's" in his retirement-grand kids, golf and gardening. I hope he knows the impact he's made on me and those who worked with him.
Rae is an "old school" guy who believes in personal relationships. Your word is your honor. He used the phone and travelled extensively to personally meet with customers, suppliers and his team. My first and lasting impression of Rae is that you had to be prepared and know your stuff. He doesn't suffer fools easily and helped me understand that preparation is the key to success. There are no free rides with Rae. You have to work for respect. He will not ask a person to do anything he wouldn't or hasn't done himself.
He is from San Antonio, TX with a degree from the University of Texas in Chemical Engineering and Business. He then went into the Navy for four years after graduation. Once leaving the Navy, he found PPG and stayed for 32 years, retiring in 2004. He picked PPG from the handful of offers because he felt they listened to him in the interviews and understood what he looked for in a career. He also felt they had high ethical standards, which would be supported throughout his career.
I'm a better person and leader because of Rae. I may not have always agreed with his methods, but he taught me that consistency and adherence to high ethical standards is a foundation for personal and professional success. With Rae, ethics are not situational. I define integrity as being true to your actions. Rae exemplified that core value for me. He would not tolerate unethical behavior and always moved quickly to root it out of his organizations. In addition, he lead his divisions to high levels of profitability year in and year out. I think of him often and hope I have the character to stick to my core values in every situation.
I wish Rae well and glad we had the chance to connect a couple of years ago. I know he is enjoying the three "g's" in his retirement-grand kids, golf and gardening. I hope he knows the impact he's made on me and those who worked with him.
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