I was a born a NY Yankee fan, so it stands to reason that my interest in Americas favorite past time baseball rises significantly every September. I watch games played against the Red Sox, regularly check the standings, and worry about A-Rod, Jeter and the entire pitching staff. During a recent game, my mind wandered into leadership territory, and it occurred to me that we could learn a lot about leadership through baseball, and the pitchers in particular.

Imagine a ballpark with your team taking their places in the field and in the batters box. As the leader, you are on the pitchers mound. In this game, all players are on the same team, including the batters. The common goal is for each batter to simply connect with the ball and hit it at least as far as the infield. The similarities begin

Pitchers will warm up the team by throwing the ball around to each other. As a leader, you build teamwork and create a supportive environment.
Pitches to the batter are challenging but not impossible to hit. Throw a fast-ball, slider or curve, but leave the knuckleballs in the dugout. You should challenge your team members but dont set them up to fail. Make sure they know the pitch is coming.
Hire a batting coach to work with your team. You want your team to be successful; therefore, provide them skill-based training to effectively prepare them.
Three strikes is an out. Your team member is trying hard but just not successful. Baseball is simply not their sport. Help them off the team by encouraging them to seek success where their skills are better suited.
Four balls is a walk. That would be a walk off the team for this team member, who may fear taking risks. This is evidenced by a failure to swing at the challenges you are throwing across the plate.
Grounders to the shortstop, base hits, fly balls, and home runs. These are all examples of team members meeting your challenges and working together for the overall success of the team. Its not necessary to hit a home run each time a player comes to bat. You might even substitute a designated hitter when a good player is struggling.

There are so many more possible similarities. The next time youre enjoying your favorite baseball team, maybe you will get an idea that could be shared with others. If you do, send me a note at Marissa@achieveabundanceinlife.com and I will post it on my website. Meanwhile, Im suddenly hungry for a hot dog and a bag of peanuts!

Marissa Crean
The Professional’s Coach and Mentor

Achieve Abundancethrough balance in your life

http://achieveabundanceinlife.com

Specializing in Career Challenges — increased leadership responsibilities; organizational and cultural changes; managing multiple priorities and conflicts; and new business ventures