2018: Book #2
This evening I finished book #2 for 2018, “The Captain Class: The Hidden Force That Creates the World’s Greatest Teams” by Sam Walker.
Walker studies sports teams. From his research, he proposes some theories about effective leadership. Some of his ideas are good. Some are bad…very, very bad. The very bad?
- Hurt your opponent—but out of sport—not out of hate.
- Be a fair speaker. No need to be a great speaker. Hmmm.
What did I learn that could help me be a better leader?
- Great leaders are extremely focused.
- They are aggressive.
- They motivate others through their passion.
- They have strong convictions and courage.
One point that truly convicted me: A great leader should have “ironclad emotional control.” So…that ain’t me.
I’m trying to be better with my emotions.
Another key finding was a great reminder and one that I have tried to teach and reinforce:
“When it came to team productivity, the MIT researchers found that a key factor was the level of ‘energy and engagement’ the members displayed in social settings OUTSIDE formal meetings. In other words, teams that talked intently among themselves in the break room were more likely to achieve superior results at work.”
-Pg. 161
What’s he saying: Culture eats strategy for breakfast.
I say it this way: The team that plays together, wins together.
Good book. 4 out of 5 stars.
Book #3? It’s a 71 year old book. Literally, the pages are aged. The book has that rich heritage smell.
The title is “The Lincoln Reader” by Paul Angle. It’s a book of all the original writings regarding Lincoln from those who knew him. What the gospels are to Jesus, the Lincoln Reader is to Abe.
Remember, all leaders are readers.
If you want to be a better leader…be a reader.
#52in2018
