Materials.Business Newsletter ⚙️ July 17th, 2024
Leadership lessons drawn from a single match
The roar of the crowd, the tension in the air, and the clash of titans—such moments define the Copa America 2024 final. Last weekend, Argentina faced Colombia in a battle that transcended football. Beyond the goals and tackles, this match held profound lessons for leaders and dreamers alike. As we dissect the game, let’s explore how it mirrors our personal journeys and the challenges we face.
The Long Road to Glory
After a 23-year wait, the Colombian team secured their spot in the final game following an impressive streak of 28 undefeated matches. The Colombian players stepped onto the pitch with dreams etched in sweat and sacrifice. Some had waited years for this opportunity, like Camilo Vargas, the Colombian goalkeeper, who embodies resilience. His path to the national team was no sprint; it was a marathon. He waited patiently for a decade before playing with the Colombian team. As, Vargas waited patiently, he honed his skills, and seized opportunities. His story reminds us that leadership isn’t about instant success; it’s about consistent effort and unwavering commitment.
The time is always right to do what is right. -Martin Luther King Jr.
James Rodriguez, the seasoned leader, carried the weight of expectations, knowing that leadership isn’t about titles but about influencing lives. So, he dedicated the trophies received to his fellow teammates. As we cheer for our heroes, we recognize that leadership begins long before the spotlight finds us. Their journey mirrored our own struggles: the uphill climb, the late nights, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Defeat: A Stepping Stone, Not a Stumbling Block
Argentina emerged victorious, leaving Colombia with bruised hearts. But defeat need not define us. John Maxwell wisely said, and echoed by the Nestor Lorenzo - head coach of the team:
Change is inevitable. Growth is optional. - John Maxwell
Our players, like us, must learn from setbacks. They’ll rise stronger, recalibrate their strategies, and chase victory anew. As Colombians, we’ve faced our share of defeats—whether on foreign soil or within ourselves. But each loss is a stepping stone toward better leadership, better humanity.
Chaos at the Gates: A Metaphor for Self-Leadership
As the stadium gates trembled with anticipation before the Copa America final, chaos erupted. Fans, fueled by passion, breached security barriers, desperate to witness history unfold. Yet, beyond the frenzy, this scene mirrored our collective struggle against stereotypes.
The chaos outside the stadium entrance during that fateful match was unacceptable. Fans without tickets breached security, endangering themselves and others. As Colombians, we need to think that our legacy isn’t built on chaos; it thrives on resilience, creativity, and unity. Let’s rise above mediocrity and show the world our true character—one that values respect, responsibility, and collective well-being.
John Maxwell’s concept of high-road leadership resonates here. We face a choice: the high road or the low road. High-road leaders prioritize the greater good over personal gain. They value people, take accountability, and do what’s right—even when it’s arduous.
The essence of a high-road leader lies in robust skills fused with strong values.- Marcus Buckingham
Let us embrace this path, redefining leadership not just for ourselves but for generations to come.
As the final whistle blew, Argentina celebrated, and Colombia regrouped. But the real game unfolds beyond the stadium. Our journey—marked by sweat, commitment, and self-discovery—continues. Let’s embrace the chaos, learn from defeat, and lead with purpose. For in the 10%, where dreams collide with reality, we find our true selves. As Leaders, as Parents, as Women, as Athletes, as Colombians, or all the above, we redefine leadership, one step (or game) at a time.
Remember, fellow dreamer, leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about influencing lives. -Monica Hernandez.
Let this blog be a rallying cry for self-leadership, both on and off the field.
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