Words from Winners to Help You Succeed In Business
To me, inspirational quotes always mean a little more coming from people who have really achieved something. And the best quotes aren’t just about how to slap a puck through the goalie’s five hole, or fend off an offensive lineman to make a tackle. They are deeper—and have significance well beyond the field, the rink or the diamond. In fact, they may matter even more in the daily competition we call “business”. Here are 5 of the greatest sports quotes for business and a few thoughts on why I chose each one.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky
This one’s pretty clear. Success doesn’t search for your address, knock on your door and hand itself over to you. You have to be aggressive in making things happen. Gretzky is saying that it’s great to plan, set things up, and wait for the right moment. But when it’s time to pull the trigger, you’d better pull it.
For business folks, the message is simple. Arrange the meeting. Make the call. Visit the prospect. Ask for the order. Each one is a “shot on goal”—and a certain percentage are going to go in. If you’re undecided about whether to try a new tactic or present a new idea, go for it. Think about how good it’s going to sound when that horn sounds!
“I’ve learned that something constructive comes from every defeat.” – Tom Landry
Tom Landry was a legendary coach of the Dallas Cowboys. While his team didn’t win every game, he made sure it gained something from every game—even a loss. He’d learn things about players, play calls, opponents, clock management—you name it. And he’d use that information to be better the next time. Not surprisingly, those defeats became less frequent.
This one applies to anyone in business—setbacks are unpleasant, but unavoidable. Your products aren’t always going to be the best—but you can figure out how to make them better. Every sales call isn’t going to result in a new customer—but finding out why will make you stronger at your next meeting. Understanding our mistakes so we can correct our course, is a big part of our success here at Superior Business Solutions.
“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” – Michael Jordan
Ask people to name the best basketball player of all time, and most would just say “Michael.” His sheer skill and strong will seemed to take over many games. But even he realized that, even with all his talent, basketball is a team game. Without solid strategy, smart play, and a cohesive team, you won’t win in the long run.
The connection to business is obvious. A few superstars are nice to have, but if your entire organization isn’t hitting on all cylinders, it won’t accomplish all it can. Is your customer service up to par? Are the people in accounting on the ball? Is your marketing helping you fill the funnel, or just along for the ride? Your business simply isn’t working until everyone is working together.
“Do you know what my favorite part of the game is? The opportunity to play.” – Mike Singletary
In many ways, this is my favorite quote out of all five. It’s a little quieter than the others, but says a lot. Few people get to play in the NFL at the level of Bears’ great Mike Singletary. He realized it, appreciated it, and made the most of it. In sports, this is the kid who never wants to come out so a substitute can play. The “gym rat.” The kid who never gets discouraged regardless of the score. He just loves to play.
In business, I’d translate that to the people that hold a company together. They love what they’re doing and know that ups and downs come with the territory. They start each day eager to face the challenges, get over the hurdles, and celebrate the successes they earn. In short, it’s about a great attitude. I’m proud to be part of Superior Business Solutions, because I’m surrounded by Mike Singletary-types every single day.
“The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person’s determination.” – Tommy Lasorda
This legendary Dodgers manager and motivator has it exactly right. Think about the Chicago Cubs last year. There was a lot of history going against them. Not to mention a late home run that took away their lead in game seven of the World Series. A very talented team of Cleveland Indians was about to extend the famed Cubs “curse” another year. But a determined Cubs team didn’t let that happen; they dug in and won the game in extra innings.
How does your business respond to adversity? With the intense competition out there today, half-hearted effort isn’t going to cut it. Resilience is the key to success. Overcoming obstacles is just a part of the playbook. Sometimes it sounds a little hokey when people claim nothing is impossible. But I can name dozens of very successful businesses that you would have been very skeptical about early on. Fortunately, the people who started and built them were not. Their determination won out in the end.
“I’d go with Superior Business Solutions.” – Tim English
Okay, I just threw that one in, of course. One of my beliefs is that you have to have fun while doing what you enjoy! But I am seriously suggesting you call on our team to help yours maximize results. We’re especially big on that “teamwork and intelligence” thing.
Our ISO certification is proof we set and maintain the highest standards in every aspect of our business. And Tommy Lasorda would really appreciate that we have “all the tools.” Our print management solutions and print-on-demand technologies will make your internal systems and external marketing work better and deliver better return. Plus, our unmatched experience and capabilities can turn promotional products into your best, most effective form of advertising.
We haven’t won a Stanley Cup or a batting title, but were chosen by our customers as the winner of the 2017 Best of Printing and Digital award. Get in touch with me today. I’ll show you how you can turn these inspirational words into profitable action. Or contact one of our sales reps—they’re our MVPs, and have plenty of ways to help your business come through in the clutch.
