One of the most recognized and respected authorities on leadership is John C. Maxwell. While many “experts” have gone to great lengths to define leadership, Maxwell contends “leadership is influence, nothing more and nothing less”.
If that is the case then who on the American sports landscape are actually the most significant leaders and influencers of public opinion? Who currently has the most influence on the daily lives of individuals across the board? In my mind the two most influential sports figures of today are about as different as different can be, yet they both have similar endearing qualities that support their popularity.
One is a rising star while the other retired from active play in 2000. One is a Hall of Famer and the other is trying to hold on to a starter’s position. One is respected for spending his time with his family and friends at home while the other is more likely to spend his off time at Las Vegas casinos. One is always pictured on one knee in a reflective pose while the other is pictured on the golf course with an almost comedic golf swing. I can go on and on about the differences but you can probably guess who I am talking about.
Yep, today I believe that Tim Tebow and Sir Charles are the two most influential personalities in sports today. While initially thinking they are very different, they are amazingly similar. Both of these guys are one thing ---AUTHENIC. While many question Tebow’s dedication to his religious belief, he has not wavered in his own personal commitment. With Charles, no one is more honest in conveying his thoughts that range from politics to role models. Tebow favorite quote is, "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard." The greatest 6'5 rebounder in the history of the game said, "When you guys criticize me, it made me play better. I didn't get on TV and whine about it." Everything these two do have become the focus of the media. From the sports record of 9,420 tweets per second after the Steelers game to Jimmy Fallon’s portrayal of the former Florida Gator to Charles hosting the Saturday Night to becoming the National spokesman for Weight Watchers, individuals love these two guys. One of the other similarities between the two is that they love people and have done some amazingly charitable things. Seeing Tim interact with disabled and disadvantaged kids before games is truly heart-warming. Being with Charles and seeing him make major donations to the Jimmy V Foundation and other charities while investing significant time and effort to raise money for worthy causes speaks a great deal about the quality of the person.
Getting back to leadership I would encourage all leaders to take a page out of GB2 and CB’s book. BE AUTHENIC or as Chuck shared, “People respect honesty. There are a lot of athletes out there who are walking P.R. Firms." Also have the courage to believe in your own thoughts and beliefs and do not cower because some of the so-called experts question you. Both of these leaders have stayed the course under some pretty heavy criticism and now they are the two most influential sports figures in this country. Realize that every leader’s style may be different but the great ones have the same foundation as Tebow and Barkley: courage, confidence and authenticity.
Nicely done coach... Impossible to argue with those conclusions. I am interested in your take on Penn State's emerging strategy to move beyond the Sandusky scandal. Their President has said he refuses ttp allow the scandal to define the university. How can they overcome the stain of this issue and how long will it take?
ReplyDeleteHope all is well with you!