Strength of will - is essential to your survival and success. The competitor who won't go away, who won't stay down, has one of the most formidable competitive advantages of all. In evaluating people, I prize ego. It often translates into a fierce desire to do their best and an inner confidence that stands them in good stead when things really get rough. Psychologists suggest that there is a strong link between ego and competitiveness. All the great performers I've ever coached had ego to spare.
Interpretation
Strong willpower and ego are key to achieving survival and success, giving a competitive edge.
This quote emphasizes the importance of strength of will and a healthy ego in achieving success and thriving in competitive environments. Bill Walsh argues that those who exhibit resilience and determination often outperform others not only due to their skills but also because their self-confidence drives them to excel, particularly during challenging times.
In practice
This quote is perfect for a motivational speech at a sports event.
When you stand and overcome a significant setback, you'll find an increasing inner confidence and self-assurance that has been created by conquering defeat. Absorbing and overcoming this kind of punishment engenders a sober, steely toughness that results in a hardened sense of independence and a personal belief that you can take on anything, survive and win.
Invest in great relationships, they will pay a lifetime of dividends.
Champions behave like champions before they are champions
Many people erroneously think they have only one chance to succeed, and if they miss that chance, they are doomed to failure. In fact, most people have several opportunities to succeed.
The culture precedes positive results. It doesn't get tacked on as an afterthought on your way to the victory stand. Champions behave like champions before they're champions: they have a winning standard of performance before they are winners.
If you see players who hate practice, their coach isn't doing a very good job.
Intensity is the price of excellence.
We have usually made our best purchases when apprehensions about some macro event were at a peak. Fear is the foe of the faddist, but the friend of the fundamentalist.
A product is something made in a factory; a brand is something that is bought by the customer. A product can be copied by a competitor; a brand is unique. A product can be quickly outdated; a successful brand is timeless.
The business of feeding people is the most amazing business in the world.
I paid my dues; I certainly did.
A lot of us players, if you were to ask them, feel like they have to play overseas. Why? 'Why not? Might as well do it while I can.' For a while, I felt that way - I've got to make the most money that I can. Now, do I feel like I could still play overseas? Absolutely. But I don't feel that pressure anymore.
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