Career Inspiration from the Super Bowl?

It’s Super Bowl Sunday and most of the pre-game talk is focusing on team match-ups, game strategy and whether the Steelers or Packers will win and why.  While that’s all well and good, I’m taking a different approach to gearing up for the big game. 

I’m attending the Broadway play Lombardi based on the life and teachings of legendary NFL coach and Hall of Famer Vince Lombardi – for whom the Super Bowl trophy is named.  To see behind the scenes at the life and dreams of this accomplished figure, and understand how he came to value and drive others to success, that is what I’m excited about. 

You see careers and sports are not all that different.  Both require us to be at our best, to find the right role and to work with others in achieving results.  What it takes to motivate a player is what it also takes to motivate a worker.  

Take this quote from Lombardi – "If you’re not fired with enthusiasm, you will be fired with enthusiasm."

I’ve told my clients this same message when they fail to take steps and move on from jobs they don’t like.  This past Friday, I made this the featured quote of the week on my career advice radio show.  It not only got a laugh in the studio but hit on the too-often missed point that we call the shots in our careers -either by taking action or by failing to.  

It has been said that Vince Lombardi inspired people to achieve what they never thought possible. So this afternoon, I plan to not only gain a deeper understanding of this inspired man but also learn from his approach and example.  Encouraging people to go after their dream jobs is not just a tag line for me.  It’s my purpose and passion.  I’m ready to learn from the motivational master!

Enjoy your Super Bowl Sunday and remember, "Winning isn’t everything but the will to win is everything."