Lead Like a Leader

All the pundits predicted it couldn’t be done. The odds favored the Chiefs by 1.5 points, yet what unfolded on the field defied expectations. Why? Because true leadership isn’t about individual talent alone—it’s about the power of the collective. It’s about a mindset that shifts from “me” to “we.” Success is built on teamwork. Trust and a shared commitment to excellence are essential.

This ethos was on full show in yesterday’s EAGLES performance. Every player understood their role and executed it with precision and unwavering dedication. It wasn’t about individual glory. It was about lifting each other up. They played for the person next to them. They worked toward a common goal.

Great teams—and great leaders—recognize that victory is never the result of one person’s efforts. The key to winning is creating an environment where every team member feels valued. They should feel empowered and inspired to do their best. It’s about fostering a culture where success is a shared pursuit, not an individual conquest.

This philosophy is central to Chapter 16 of Lead Like a Leader. In this chapter, I introduce the concept of “What’s Your Wake?” Just as a boat leaves a wake that influences everything around it, a leader’s presence creates ripples. These ripples are formed by their actions and mindset. They shape the team’s culture and performance. Some of the key lessons from this chapter include:

1. Your Impact Outlives Your Actions

A true leader recognizes that their influence extends far beyond what they do individually. The way they communicate, support, and uplift others creates a lasting impact. During the game, the EAGLES demonstrated this by playing selflessly, trusting one another, and stepping up when it mattered most.

2. Empowerment Over Micromanagement

Winning teams thrive on trust, not control. Leaders who empower rather than micromanage allow their teams to flourish. The EAGLES coaching staff made sure every team member felt confident. Veteran players also contributed, enabling them to execute their roles without hesitation.

3. Shared Ownership Leads to Shared Success

When individuals take ownership not just for their own performance, it affects the entire team. They also focus on the success of the team as a whole. When this happens, something powerful occurs. In yesterday’s game, it was not about one superstar carrying the team. Each player made the extra block and took the extra hit. They put in the extra effort because they believed in each other.

4. Culture Determines the Outcome

Talent wins games, but culture wins championships. A leader needs to cultivate a culture of resilience. Mutual respect and shared responsibility are also essential. These qualities are what separate good teams from great ones. The EAGLES proved that the right culture—one where every member contributes to the collective success—can overcome even the toughest odds.

In sports, business, and life, true leadership is not about being the best—it’s about making those around you better. Leaders unlock immense potential when they create an environment where everyone feels valued. This supportive setting accomplishes more than any single person could achieve alone.

That’s exactly what we saw from the EAGLES last night. And that’s why they won.

Lead Like a Leader Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/dpjWyBA