5 Lessons on Leadership From Kawhi Leonard
“I’m always trying to see what way I can lead so when the opportunity comes,
it won’t just hit me in the face” -Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi Leonard is one of the most dominating basketball players in the NBA. He's so focused on the game that he often appears unenthusiastic or indifferent. After the Raptors beat the Warriors in Game 4, Kawhi was asked how he maintains his composure under so much pressure. His response summed up exactly what makes him so special: "I don't play hero basketball. I'm not playing for fans. I'm just playing to win."
So what can we learn from this? In a recent article, business strategist and author Hugh MacPhie takes a moment to consider what leaders can learn from the NBA great.
It's more than just talk: "Don't just talk about how great you are", says MacPhie, "strive to be one who actually delivers". Leaders should seek out those within their organizations and celebrate them, not only for the results they deliver, but also for putting the team before the self.
Take time to recharge: Leonard was rested for 22 games during the regular Raptor's season. That’s about a quarter of the year. The lesson MacPhie draws is not to let ourselves get burnt out, so that we can focus on key performance moments where we add the most value. Take that vacation – not simply for personal benefit, but because you will be more productive and impactful to your organization when you come back.
Keep it cool under pressure: Okay. That one is a little easier said than done. But your team is watching you in good times and in bad. Consider what Pascal Siakam said about Kawhi when the Raptors won Game 3 of the NBA Finals: "He’s always been that guy who you can look to when something goes bad. He just has that calm demeanour. It gives you peace, knowing that everything is going to be OK. And I feel like that every time I’m on the floor with him.” Many times when the Raptors were significantly behind, everyone could feel that quiet confidence and because of it they believed that they could still win.
Forget the past. Focus on the task at hand: Like all of us, Kawhi makes mistakes. But he doesn’t obsess over them, nor does he worry about the next game, or where he will be playing next year. He just focuses on what needs to get done now.
Most important of all? While raw talent is key, for high-performing teams, attitude matters just as much. There are four or five other players in the NBA who are arguably as talented, if not more talented, than Kawhi Leonard. But his determined leadership makes those around him better. So, if you can find star performers like that, give them the autonomy to do what they need to do. And do whatever it takes to make sure they stay next year!
And while we're on the subject...
Try not to smile at this: