I'm looking for players who make their teammates better. You do that with enthusiasm and passion.
When you are speaking to your team after a game, never talk about the kid who was the star of the game. Talk about what your other players did to help the team win. Be sure to spread the wealth... Then have individual meetings with one to three players to praise and reinforce. Make sure you touch them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Emphasizing teamwork over individual success fosters a positive and cohesive group dynamic.
This quote by Mike Krzyzewski highlights the importance of acknowledging the collective effort of the team rather than focusing solely on the achievements of one standout player. By praising the contributions of all team members, the leader fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual respect, which ultimately leads to greater success for the entire group. Individual recognition can then be given privately, reinforcing positive behavior without detracting from the team's unity and shared goals.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting, highlight the effort of all members after a successful project.
More from Mike Krzyzewski
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Therefore, as a player, as a coach, even though we might have lost in a season or not won a championship, it was like a self-fulfilling prophecy that I'm going to win some time. I've never felt myself a loser.
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People want to be on a team. They want to be part of something bigger than themselves. They want to be in a situation where they feel that they are doing something for the greater good.
When you are passionate, you always have your destination in sight and you are not distracted by obstacles. Because you love what you are pursuing, things like rejection and setbacks will not hinder you in your pursuit. You believe that nothing can stop you!
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I'm going to try to unite all Americans.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of the people you lead, you must be willing to walk alongside them, to lift and encourage them, to share moments of understanding with them, and to spend time with them, not just shout down at them from on high.
The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.