I have to teach my 12 year old son about leadership. This will be either a good conversation, or a head butting contest. Knowing my son…

He is playing Fortnite: Battle Royale and has becomes focused on the win. He has developed decent leadership skills, but is becoming a bit overbearing. He seems too focused on the win. I’ve got to figure how to tell him to focus on “the assist” as hard as he does “the win”.

Now, I’m NOT a military strategist. I AM an Eagle Scout. And I have been part of successful teams. The biggest lesson I have learned from that experience:

Don’t go into business with family or friends. It will destroy that relationship. Every time.

I would say, being from Kansas, in recent years our State has been home to quite a few good leaders. The one that I gained the most from watching was Roy Williams, coach of the KU Jayhawks. His strategy was quite simple: fundamentals, deep bench, every one touches the ball before it goes in, everyone wins. When everyone’s talent is being utilized to its fullest potential, no one can stop you. Focus hard on getting the ball into the RIGHT person’s hands at the RIGHT time, and it’s bank! Nothin’ but net.

So, it went well. He is very perceptive and open to criticism. Unlike me, when I was his age (or like his little brother… grrrr… he and I are too much alike) I was stubborn and wouldn’t listen to sound advice. Or, I would think I knew better and do as I thought best.

I can’t tell you how many times I have said in the back of my mind “Damn, Dad. Why didn’t I listen?” I know someday that will be the case with my kids. I guess that’s how it goes.

Keep your head UP!!

JC