A soccer team is typically made up of 11 starters, and others on the bench for substitutions during the game. My daughter is part of her eighth-grade school soccer team, and she loves it. She loves the team, the program, and everything about soccer. Unfortunately, they only had 11 girls on the team. There were no substitutes. We all thought this was gonna be a disaster that the kids would drop off, fizzle out, and be exhausted. The opposite has happened. The girls rallied around each other, and bonded. There was a tremendous commitment from each girl to be present each and every day, and for each and every game. Everyone contributed, and everyone continued to show up.
This was not an ideal situation as injuries can happen, as well as sickness. However, these girls have made a commitment, and I was super impressed. Their physical fitness and toughness over the course of 8+ weeks together is amazing. A big #2Claps!
Thinking about this team and what these girls and Coach have done over that time has made me reflect on my own leadership. When we don’t have a backup, or we don’t have someone to take our place, it makes us think a little differently. A few thoughts.
Number one: You have to show up. So show up and do the best you can.
Number two: Do your job. We have to do our roles, so show up and do your job!
Number three: You can still perform when you’re not at your best. Think about bubble wrap. When several of the bubbles are popped, it can still do the job. I’m sure during each game at least one of these girls did not feel their best. However, they knew they had to show up for the good of the team.
Number four: Team. By showing up, you’re not only representing yourself; you’re being there for your team, and these girls have done that.
Your commitment is greater than your feelings. My friend Joe Stickle has this tattooed on his body as a commitment to his physical fitness. These girls committed to making it work and being there for each other and the team.
I’m really proud of them, and it’s been a joy to watch! Keep showing up! #SurviveThrive
Keep showing up friends. It matters.
