But Richard, who played tennis and basketball growing up, says sports taught him that win or lose, you tend to have more fun when you are in the game. So, instead of setting a goal to play a certain position, he always did whatever he could to be a utility player, in sports and business.
“I’ve always believed that putting your hand up to do something demonstrates curiosity,” he said. “And then, if you do it well, it demonstrates competency.” As Richard made himself more valuable, the job titles also fell into place. All aspiring business leaders would do well to take to heart Davis’ mantra to “set a direction, never a goal.”
Listeners to the podcast will smile, shed a few tears, learn how to develop curiosity, and discover the three elements of a successful leadership transition.
As a Hall of Fame keynote speaker, longtime Associate Editor for Sports Illustrated, and 14-time New York Times Best-Selling author, Don Yaeger is one of America’s most provocative thought leaders. From walking into Afghanistan with the Mujahadeen to living with football legend Walter Payton, Don has spent three decades embedded with the world’s greatest "Greats." Now a sought-after executive coach and host of the Corporate Competitor Podcast, he translates the lessons of sports and business legends into actionable strategies for building a culture of greatness.
"Don is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. I’ve known him for a long time and every time we talk I walk away wiser and more inspired. He is the best in the business at teaching you a skill – storytelling – that will last you a lifetime.”
“The ability for athletes to get hired is carried on through you because you are putting out the message that lessons learned from sports are important in life. It is embedded in this podcast, what you’re doing is significant.”
We speak the same language. I am inspired by the stories you tell, the people you have met, and the things you’ve done. Those of us that are competitors like to follow others that have been down that journey, so it is always fun talking to you!”
“Many of the leaders I have worked with were excellent athletes, and I think there is a direct correlation. You’re one of the few people that really has pursued this study, Don. Keep up the great work. What you are doing really makes a difference.”
“Don, you have mastered the skill of interviewing and asking great questions. That is a great skill all leaders need in order to understand their team members’ thought processes.”
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