Expect a Storm

We have previously provided a series of blog posts relating to vision, mission and values.  I have always struggled with a way to emphasize the critical importance of these three concepts.  Suddenly I was struck by the topic of a recent project with a client.

My client was struggling with the way her leadership team responded to challenges in the workplace.  The irony of this to us was that challenges are the rule in the workplace, not the exception to the rule.  Therefore, it was difficult for us to understand why so many people are shocked and dismayed when they face challenges at work or in life.

This reminded my of a story that Tony Dungy told about his pep talk for the Indianapolis Colts on the evening before their Super Bowl victory.  He instructed them to EXPECT A STORM.  He meant that in both a literal and metaphorical way.  There was a rain storm in the forecast and it did rain hard for much of the game.

However, the real storm he was predicting was a metaphorical one.  Sure enough, the Chicago Bears ran the opening kickoff back for a touchdown.  This was the real type of storm he warned his players to expect.

Coach Dungy’s message to his players was to EXPECT A STORM and to respond my remaining calm and STICKING TO THEIR GAME PLAN.  Tony taught that you always wanted to have a sense of urgency but that you needed to temper that by stopping short of a sense of panic.  His philosophy was that leaving your game plan was a sign of panic and panic was not in you your game plan.

Your vision, mission and values statements combine to reflect your organizational game plan.  So, always remember in business and in life, EXPECT A STORM and is response to those inevitable storms, STICK TO YOUR GAME PLAN!

Please share your personal or organizational game plans with us.  We would love to hear from you!!