Before we can execute any plays from the “Offense” side of our Playbook we need to get in the right mindset. It’s tough to summarize all of the physical and mental attributes of the most successful entrepreneurs so let’s use a sports analogy and find a QB!
Easy Raider fans, I’m not going to use our QB. (even though Rich Gannon is still my favorite)
For this discussion, we’re going north... Indy.
Our subject... Peyton Manning. (Thanks Dot & Ed, I’m officially converted!)
Put aside all of his physical skills for a moment. I can argue that he is at best, “ upper mid-pack” for arm strength, agility and speed (dude is slow). Brother Eli probably wins the Manning family cookout throwing contests. Tom Brady does the best job of pocket agility since Joe Montanna. Mike Vick’s speed was measured with a stop watch, Peyton’s with a calendar.
That being said, give me one game with everything on the line and my choice is simple... Peyton Manning.
He embodies all of the attributes needed to win in business and football.
Student of the game
- Peyton puts in the time to study and watch film.
- He analyzes the competition’s strengths and weaknesses.
- He searches for patterns and flaws in their execution.
- He understands their tendencies and habits.
Strategist
- He serves as a coach on the field, understanding not only the play but how each player must execute it.
- He evaluates his strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to craft a game plan with the highest probability of success.
- He stays with the plan despite short term challenges and set backs.
- He is mechanically sound, practicing all of the components that are within his control. The result is a consistent level of performance.
Tactician
- He is mentally agile and can adapt the game plan in real-time.
- He has the ability to “read” (observe) defenses and “recognize” (interpret) situations.
- He has the confidence to call audibles or change the play. (watch him at the line of scrimmage, he reads the defense and changes anything from the formation to play itself)
- He goes though his “progression” of receivers quickly to select the best option. (the Sprint commercial with him in the hotel hallway, looking behind the doors of multiple rooms, while the defender bears down on him is brilliant!)
Execution
- He sticks with the plan, finding ways to learn as he executes scripted plays.
- He consistently uses his strengths to minimize his weaknesses, leaving little to ‘chance’ or competitive exploitation.
- He takes calculated risks.
- He quickly gets past interceptions and errors, seldom making the same mistake twice.
- He leads.
See how this mindset aligns with playing offense in your industry?
- Do your homework
- Have a game plan
- Have a Playbook
- Be mentally agile
- Be consistent
- Be a LEADER
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