I'm Noticing... The Helpers

Years ago I read the book Legacy - 15 Lessons in Leadership by James Kerr. It grabbed me from the beginning, a mixture of sport/building team culture (the New Zealand All Blacks) and leadership, two of my biggest passions. Right out of the gate it hit on something that really resonated. How powerful leading with others is, indivually and collectively. Building character isn't a solo sport.

"Champions do extra. They sweep the sheds." - James Kerr

I loved the 'Sweep the Sheds' mentality and after games ritual that the book explored first up. It wasn't about the rookies, the youngest or least powerful team members being forced to do something others wouldn't, it was a shared responsibility and belief system (more and less experienced team mates together). They believed in discipline being built through intentional action. As well as that it isn't someone else's responsibility to look after them. They take pride in leaving the sapce how they found it.

"Sweep the Sheds: Never be too big to do the small things that need to be done". - James Kerr

You may of noticed examples like this in other areas of life or sports. The Japanese soccer/football team and their fans are famous for doing it at World Cups, whether it's in the locker room or the stands. This summer holiday I noticed it with the cricket and the visting Barmy Army (English Cricket team supporters) during the third test in Adelaide. The way we build, and rebuild, respect, reputation and influence is by how we make a difference. Making a difference with others, we're also making a difference for ourselves as well.

"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping'". - Fred Rogers

So as we all get back into the busyness of the new year starting again, navigating days that can feel full of noise that wants to grab our attention, I wonder what you'll be noticing. The helpers are always out there, and noticing and being inspired by the difference they (and we) are making can help ground, reset and prepare us to consistently respond instead of react.

"I get by with a little help from my friends." - John Lennon