Top 3 Leadership Lessons From Super Bowl Quarterback and MVP Patrick Mahomes
As we look forward to Super Bowl LVII in Phoenix, Arizona, we have to pause to appreciate the greatness of these professional athletes amidst the hoopla surrounding the game. With every successful team stands a great leader. And this is no different in your own role as a leader in your workplace or your own business.
One person whose leadership qualities I want to highlight is none other than Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and MVP Patrick Mahomes.
Having been raised around professional sports, I’m sure he has picked up a thing or two on what it takes to be an exceptional leader for his team.
Here are three leadership qualities he possesses that you can take and apply it as you lead your own team:
#1. Humility
C.S. Lewis once said, “Humility not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.” During postgame interviews, Mahomes always credits his team when they win but takes responsibility when they lose all while exuding a humble kind of confidence. In an age of diva athletes with selfish thinking and huge egos, Mahomes does the opposite. This kind of humility isn’t self-degrading but rather uplifts those around him.
When leading a company, a department, or even yourself, humility is the key going forward. It keeps your team inspired, encouraged, and willing to follow your vision.
#2. Flexibility
No, we’re not talking about doing the splits but Mahomes’ ability to adapt to what he sees on the defense and knack for adjusting on the fly is a major part of his success on the field. In a game where adjustments are happening at a rapid pace, he is ahead of the curve among his peers.
In your work environment, flexibility is a key trait to move the needle forward. Things change at the last minute and your team is counting on you to take a commanding presence to navigate through the shifting scenarios. Having a flexible mindset will help earn the trust and respect of those around you.
#3. A Privilege- Not a Right
In Mahomes’ interviews, he frequently is grateful for the opportunity to play the game he loves and to lead the kind of team he is in. Coming in and taking the reins of leadership in his second year of professional football was something that he had to earn. He had to build the trust of his team by developing a culture of honor, respect, vulnerability, all while having fun in the process.
If you find yourself in a place of leading others even though there are “veterans” on your team, the key to gaining respect of others is knowing that it isn’t just handed to you because of your title but something earned through example, communication, and never to be taken for granted.
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