Coach K On....

“People have to be given the freedom to show the heart they possess. I think it’s a leader’s responsibility to provide that type of freedom. And I believe it can be done through relationships and family. Because if a team is a real family, its members want to show you their hearts.

Being a leader: “I get a group of people who are talented to commit to excellence and to work together as one. That’s where it starts. Different talents, same commitment.”

Planning and staying flexible: “There are things you can talk about and plan and then there are things that just happen. Sometimes players do things that bring out the best in each other--like when a group of talented musicians hits their groove.

Cultivating a positive team culture: “We try to  create a jealous-free zone. We look each other in the eye. We tell each other the truth. And we trust each other.”

Maintaining culture: “Don’t take your culture for granted. There needs to be a constant renewal of values that lead to camaraderie.”

Equality within the team: “Everyone’s ideas should be heard. It doesn’t matter who gets credit. As long as you’re working towards the same mission and shared purpose.”

On staying fresh: “I try to see each new season as a new challenge because I have a new team to work with, new opponents to encounter, and often new ideas and theories to try.”

On communication: “Effective teamwork begins and ends with communication. Communication does not always occur naturally, even among a tight-knit group of individuals. Communication must be taught and practiced in order to bring everyone together as one.”

On perspective: “Making shots counts, but not as much as the people who make them.”

 

Leading with the Heart: Coach K's Successful Strategies for Basketball, Business, and Life