Play Your Position

In some way we can all relate to the feeling of being reluctant to trust others with something that is precious to us. Whether it is a child, a pet, a material possession, or an idea, each of us, young or old, has had the experience at some time or another. I think it’s important for all of us to retrain ourselves to trust others to help us navigate through life because no one is equipped to get through it alone. Now, I am not suggesting that you leave your child or pet in the care of a stranger without employing the necessary screening process; nor do I endorse giving the car keys of your 2010 vehicle to your teenager who has just passed the road test. However, in order for your ideas and dreams to come to life, you will need the help of others.

All too often we try and do too much because we don’t think that other people can do it as well as we can, or we think they won’t have the same level of enthusiasm as we do, or that somehow, they will be unable to understand or interpret our intent. For some, it’s something a little more problematic—the fear that the credit will go to someone else. Leadership guru John C. Maxwell said it best: “One is too small a number to achieve greatness.” Let it go…even a brain surgeon has a team. When you want to accomplish something of importance, don’t let your ego get in the way. Maxwell also tells us that “The goal is more important than the role.”

Think about this: The New York Yankees are one of the best teams in the major leagues. Year after year they are considered the team to beat. They have some of the best players in the league including Mariano Rivera. Mariano Rivera is the team’s closer. If it’s the bottom of the eighth and the Yankees have the lead, the last thing that the opposing team wants to see is Mariano Rivera stepping up to the pitchers mound. Teams know that their chances of scoring when he’s pitching are slim to none. However, you won’t see Mariano pitching in the first inning and if he steps up to bat, no one is expecting much. There are others on the team who are counted on to fill those shoes. The point here is it takes collaboration to get the win.

Find out where you fit on the team and play your position to the greatest of your abilities. For through your actions others can be inspired to be and do their best. Remember, some will hit, some will bunt, some will walk, some will strike out, but it is the team approach that will carry each of us to victory.