Lessons From the Soccer Field

As a leadership consultant, I’m always on the lookout for real-life examples that illustrate the principles of leadership in action. The other day, I had the pleasure of watching one of my sons try out for an academy soccer team. Little did I know, the coach’s comments during the session would offer some profound insights into everyday leadership.

Lesson 1: Average People Walk - Winners Run

The coach's first piece of wisdom was simple yet powerful: "Average people walk - winners run." In the context of soccer, it’s clear: those who put in extra effort and hustle on the field are the ones who stand out. But this principle applies just as well in the workplace.

Key Takeaway: In your organisation, do you have walkers or runners? Encouraging a culture where everyone is motivated to go the extra mile can make a significant difference. Whether it’s volunteering to take on new challenges, sharing innovative ideas, or supporting colleagues, those who run—not literally, but figuratively—are often the ones who lead.

Lesson 2: What Do You Need to Score a Goal?

At one point, noticing the team struggling with basic skills, the coach asked, "What do you need in order to score a goal?" The kids shouted out a variety of answers: teamwork, passing, good positioning. Surprisingly, they missed the most obvious one: a ball.

This scenario reminded me of many organisational settings. Often, teams focus on complex strategies and forget the basics.

Key Takeaway: When facing a challenge, sometimes the simplest solutions are overlooked. Leaders should ensure their teams have a solid grasp of the fundamentals before moving on to more advanced strategies. Are your teams equipped with the basic tools and skills they need to succeed?

Bringing It All Together

Watching a group of 10-year-olds learn about soccer, I saw clear parallels with the workplace. Effective leadership often involves motivating your team to move beyond average effort and ensuring they don’t overlook the basics in their quest for success.

Implementing these lessons in your organisation can lead to a more dynamic and effective team. Encourage your employees to 'run' by recognising and rewarding extra effort, and regularly revisit the basics to ensure everyone is well-equipped for success. Remember, it’s often the simplest insights that make the biggest impact.

Here’s to developing everyday leadership skills that help your team score goals—both on and off the field!