Today, during practice 143, Batman chose to open a can of worms. Translation. He decided to bring up garagegate instead of talking about what the rest of America seems fixated on now that it’s football season – deflategate. He moved practice in a productive direction by taking on a tougher topic. We’re currently playing in the courage essential, so his move was particulary poignant and timely.
By practice end, I managed to piss off more than a few participants. I didn’t do this on purpose, I simply focused on the facts and tried to speak truth even when it was hard. I’ve been too easy on this team. In fact, I’m too easy on every, single team we take to practice. It is acutely painful to push people you like and I don’t like to hurt anyone. So, I listen to bullshit and every so often correct it. Every so often turns into every once in a blue moon. Once in a blue moon, before long, becomes some kinda script that never makes it out of my head. It sounds something like this…
“Nothing’s going to happen, so why bother.” “I’ve already told them this truth fifteen times, a sixteenth won’t matter.” “These people are doing the best they can, give them the benefit of the doubt.” “The timings just not right. Wait till next time.” “Chet, you’ve worn out your welcome here – time to bite your tongue.” “Yeah, someday the truth’s gonna set you free – for now, however, it’s just gonna get you fired.”
So, today, I told some hard truth. I cared too much to keep silent. My focus was on the facts – ccd and truth. This team gets better every time I decide to push for performance. Lead anything and you’re gonna have to fight for performance. Like me and the team today, you’re going to avoid most of them because you’re soft. Tough and tender, remember. Tough and tender. And, get ready for push back from those you’re trying to die for. Get ready for them to think you’re “that guy.” Get ready for them to call you “tough NO tender.” Get ready to wear out your welcome. Get ready to give them the facts – ccd and truth. Good…
BUILT TO LEAD 