We recently watched AIR, the story of how Nike signed Michael Jordan to a deal back in 1984.
It was a great story about persistence, authenticity, not taking no for an answer. This was a massive risk for both Nike and the Jordan family. A line which stuck out to me was uttered during their negotiations scene:
“a shoe is just a shoe until somebody steps into it.”
This got me reflecting on my own life as a principal and leader. A principal or leader is just a position holder until somebody steps into it. In the movie, they explained that the shoes wouldn’t sell, unless Michael became a great player in the NBA, which he most certainly did. He did that through his gifts and talents and determination and drive. It was Michael that made the shoe a success, not the other way around. It’s the principal or the leader that makes the organization work, not the title. It is the teaching staff, and the secretaries, and all the people that make the school special, not the position name.
We all have special gifts and talents that bring a uniqueness to your school or organization. Remember that. It’s important. It’s not just the title. It’s the person. It’s not just the shoe. It’s the one who wears it!
If I can help you in any way, don’t hesitate to reach out at @andrewmarotta21 on Twitter. Keep rolling friends! Keep surviving and thriving!
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#LeadershipSparks: In The Arena
Quote: “If you think you can do a thing or
think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.”
– Henry Ford
