When we are free to move, anything is possible
Congratulations Eagles for playing an amazing game. A special thanks to Toyota for leveraging their Super Bowl LII commercial as a platform to underscore the importance of hope, motivation and leadership. Toyota’s motto “When we are free to move, anything is possible” was a beautiful story of Ms. Lauren Woolstencroft’s journey to success.
Ms. Woolstencroft was born without an arm and both legs below the knee. With her chances of winning a Paralympic gold metal, a staggering one billion (yes, with a B) to one, Ms. Wollstencroft beat all odds. She not only won one gold metal, but 8 gold medals! This is a true testament to dedication, perseverance, and the ability to move freely. Despite his disability, he proved that “anything is possible” … and so did our “underdogs”, now proudly known as our “best dogs”.
The gameplay, the stories, and the atmosphere were not only exciting but also informative. There were many solid leadership lessons that we all need to learn and this. This became very apparent as I scrolled through social media. While looking at posts and thoughts on the game from others, I also noticed some posts peppered in the news about people feeling marginalized in the work environment. I thought of the commonly referenced quote “hire smart people then go out of your way”, which has been referenced by several recognized leaders in a variety of industries. They advise that this is the key to strong leadership. I thought about how many leaders allow their teams to move freely, as Coach Doug does.
From quotes to passive statements to full articles, clearly, people want to be able to “move freely” in their role. Having the ability to move freely brings a sense of purpose and meaning to day-to-day responsibilities. The phrase “move freely” really resonates with the Eagles jingle “Fly Eagles Fly”. I’m sure the Eagles team, leaders, and fans felt free to move to make the impossible possible. Do you agree?
While watching Super Bowl LII, 4 key leadership themes emerged that can help leaders foster an environment where staff feel free to move. These topics include teamwork, forgiveness, commitment, and empathy. First, the Eagles demonstrated teamwork through team dinners, no cell phone use at times, and their continued stamina and persistence, despite being called the underdog or losing Wentz, their starting quarterback. As a team, they actually embraced the underdog motto and believed in their backup quarterback, Nick Fowles (who, I must add, was the MVP of the Super Bowl). Despite many skeptics, the team and the Eagles family believed in themselves. Forgiveness was shown when plays or passes didn’t go as planned. Players and coaches continued to be positive and moving forward. Did you notice that Eagles coaches and players didn’t blame individuals?
Without a doubt, there was intense participation among fans, players, management and the community at large. The engagement fueled the energy in the field. Everyone felt they had something at stake and the energy was contagious. The compromise was powerful. Ultimately, empathy was demonstrated through the handshakes and special moments shared with the Patriots after the Eagles won the game. The Eagles took the time to show good sportsmanship by sharing positive feelings about the strength of both teams. This helps both teams feel respected and valued.
Coach Peterson, like many successful leaders, practices these topics in his daily roles and responsibilities. They empower their teams to move freely by adopting the following behaviors:
Use positive reinforcement (5 positive feelings for every 1 constructive)
Ask for (and accept) honest feedback
Approach situations with curiosity rather than certainty
Putting yourself in the shoes of others (practicing empathy)
Adding these behaviors to your leadership toolbox decreases guilt and vulnerability and promotes teamwork, forgiveness, commitment, and empathy. It is important to always use open-ended questions and ask your team to share their perspectives and recommendations for improvement. Even if you think you are allowing your team to move freely, it only takes a moment to request validation. Everything is possible when we take the time to make it possible.
How do you encourage your team to spread their wings and fly? Fly like an eagle!