As I just finished the 3rd and final season of Ted Lasso, a show about soccer, sorry, a show about football (no, not that football),
I am really blown away by a show about football that isn’t really even about football. It is a show about motivation, believing in yourself, learning about yourself, inclusion, respect, and confidence. There is a good reason coaches and teachers have their teams/classes watch it. In our industry, for as long as I can remember, no matter the economic climate, there has always been uncertainty. You just really aren’t sure what the future holds, but all you can really do about that is control the controllables. I would highly recommend letting all members of your team watch the show, or at least clips from it. I know if my boss would take the time to do something like this, it would go a long way. Sure, money is always a motivating factor, but you can’t really put a price on valuable life lessons like this to use not only in the workplace but in life itself. Here are a few takeaways that have really stuck with me from the show.
Believe in yourself:
Self-confidence is the cornerstone of effective leadership. To lead others, you must first believe in your own abilities and trust that you can overcome obstacles. Be persistent in pursuing your goals, even when faced with adversity. Your self-confidence will inspire those around you, fostering a sense of trust and respect.
All people are different:
Embrace the power of diversity and individuality. Every person brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table. Recognize and celebrate these differences to create a more inclusive and productive work environment. A diverse team is a strong team.
Courage is about being willing to try:
Taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone are essential for growth and success. Encourage your team to face challenges head-on and learn from their experiences. Promote a culture of experimentation and innovation, and celebrate both successes and failures as opportunities to grow.
Be a Goldfish:
Don’t dwell on your mistakes or let them define you. Learn from them and move on quickly, just like a goldfish forgets things within 10 seconds. Instill this mindset in your team to promote resilience and adaptability. By adopting a “goldfish mentality,” your team will be better equipped to bounce back from setbacks and continue moving forward with confidence.
Conclusion:
The leadership lessons from Ted Lasso can have a deep impact on your workplace, creating a more inclusive, supportive, and resilient team culture. By embracing these lessons, you can empower your team to reach their full potential and create an environment where everyone thrives. As Ted Lasso says, “Success is not about wins and losses. It’s about helping these young fellows be the best versions of themselves, on and off the field.”