10 Leadership Lessons From Peyton Manning

After finishing the sprint toward a successful Leadercast Live event in Atlanta earlier this month, I feel like can catch up on what else has been happening in the world during the last few weeks. 

One of those things was the NFL Draft, and as an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and native of the Philly area, the Draft was a huge deal for the city. And as I was reading about these young men who have worked their hardest to be the best they can be, it made me reflect on top athletes and their discipline, drive and perseverance. How did they get to be at the top of their game? How do they go from the young guys who were drafted, to being the Tom Bradys, Peyton Mannings and Joe Montanas of the world? More importantly, how do the best players of all time also end up being the leader their team has chosen to follow? Why are they also the team captains, beyond their skills? 

Before I began working at Leadercast, I had the chance to attend Leadercast Live when Peyton Manning was one of the speakers. So as I asked these questions about top athletes, I pulled out my notes from Peyton’s talk in 2015. 

In his own words, here are a few of his leadership tips and tricks that got him to the highest level of accomplishment in his field. 

1. Don’t be a leader that is just a facade or a nameplate on the door. 
2. Sense things other people do not, and make sure you have the guts and resources to act on what you’re sensing. 
3. Devote yourself to intense preparation. 
4. Invest in a coach. It doesn’t matter how seasoned anyone is, everyone can use a coach to point out what works, but more candidly, what doesn’t. 
5. Find a way to instill trust in others. 
6. Don’t be afraid to recognize when it’s time to draw a new baseline. Don’t be afraid of change. 
7. Become a master observer. Identify the things that have the greatest meaning. 
8. Your personal goals should directly and positively impact the team goals. 
9. Have the assurance and swagger of a winner, but never be convinced that your accomplishments are made alone. 
10. Don’t get comfortable. It’s all about finishing. 

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