I have long been a fan of the late basketball coach John Wooden. It’s not that I’m a huge basketball fan, but rather, I am a ardent supporter of leadership excellence—which Wooden exemplified throughout his life and career.
Wooden was a prolific author and particularly gifted in imparting his tried and true leadership wisdom, earned on and off the court. I have read most—if not all—of his books, and have both written and spoken about Wooden many times.
Recently, I came across a John Wooden quote that I just love:
“The joy and great satisfaction I derived from leadership—working with and teaching others, helping them reach their potential in contributing to the team’s common goals—ultimately surpassed outscoring an opponent, the standings, even championships. It certainly surpassed the public attention that comes with achievement.”
Without a doubt, Wooden was absolutely, categorically a highly successful leader and coach—as proven by his incredible UCLA basketball record. But it wasn’t the championships or acclaim that brought Coach Wooden the greatest satisfaction; rather, it was “working with and teaching others, helping them reach their potential!”
I firmly believe that the most successful and admired leaders are not those that only win, achieve, and accomplish, but those that serve, teach, and help. How would you describe your own leadership? What is your motivation for leading others? Where do you find your satisfaction and fulfillment?
“Working with and teaching others, helping them reach their potential.” This is precisely where personal and professional long-term joy, satisfaction and fulfillment lies!
