Tag: strategy

SEEz Oppty: Turning Vision into Victory

Have you ever wondered why certain individuals can spot potential where others see nothing but challenges? These are the ones who seem to have a sixth sense for sniffing out opportunities. The secret isn’t a mystical power – it’s a skill, and one that’s grounded in our very own biology. Welcome to the world where we ‘SEEz Opportunities’.

Spotting Opportunities:
The Power of Your Brain

Seeing opportunities isn’t an exclusive gift only bestowed upon a lucky few. It’s a skill, akin to learning to play the guitar or mastering the art of public speaking. This skill, however, focuses on your perception, and altering the way you perceive the world around you. It’s about examining situations from multiple perspectives and unveiling hidden gems of potential.

This is where the brain’s Reticular Activating System (RAS) comes into play. The RAS is a bundle of nerves at our brainstem that filters out unnecessary information so the important stuff gets through. It’s the reason you hear your name across a noisy room, or why you spot a friend’s face in a crowded street. Your RAS takes what you focus on and creates a filter for it, sieving through the data and presenting only the pieces that are important to you. This means once you’ve set your goals and defined what opportunities you’re seeking, your RAS will work to highlight those opportunities when they arise.

But how do we develop the skill of seeing opportunities? It starts with setting a clear vision. First, identify the types of opportunities you are seeking. Is it a lucrative business deal? A chance to score in a sports match? A potential relationship? A unique travel experience? Just like setting a GPS before a journey, you need to define your destination before setting out to discover opportunities.

The Story of Airbnb

Take the story of Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia, the founders of Airbnb. In 2007, during an industrial design conference in San Francisco, they noticed that hotels were fully booked. Seeing an opportunity, they decided to rent out their living space to those who couldn’t find accommodation. That idea evolved into Airbnb, a billion-dollar company. [For a more in-depth version of this story see our SEEz Opportunity Stories page.]

Once you’ve identified the type of opportunities you’re searching for, broaden your horizon and delve deep. Look at situations from different perspectives, ask ‘what if’ and dare to dream. The world is full of untapped possibilities waiting to be discovered.

Challenge Yourself:
A Different Lens for Perception

To truly develop this skill, challenge yourself to view your world through a new lens. Each experience, encounter, and event harbors potential opportunities. The key lies in priming your RAS to recognize these opportunities. If you’re an entrepreneur, train your RAS not just to see a product, but a solution to a problem, an enhancement to a process, or an entryway to a new market. If you’re an athlete, instruct your RAS to see beyond the game, towards mastering new techniques, fostering resilience, or uncovering a passion for mentorship.

Consider Howard Schultz, who, during a trip to Italy, was captivated by the country’s coffee culture. He didn’t just see a beverage – he saw an opportunity to bring this Italian experience back to America. This new perspective led him to transform Starbucks from a single coffee bean store into a global coffeehouse chain.

But recognizing an opportunity is merely the first step. Identifying potential is futile if you don’t take proactive measures to seize it.

Act Now: The Bridge to Success

It is action that distinguishes the dreamers from the doers. Transforming an opportunity from potential to reality requires action, often involving courage, dedication, and tenacity. It might mean stepping outside your comfort zone or accepting risks. However, as the adage goes, “Fortune favors the bold.”

A classic example is that of JK Rowling, the renowned author of the Harry Potter series. She saw an opportunity to create a unique magical world, but it was her actions – writing the story, persevering through numerous rejections from publishers – that transformed her vision into a reality, creating a billion-dollar franchise in the process. [For a more in-depth version of this story see our SEEz Opportunity Stories page.]

A simple framework to inspire action:

Chart the Next Step: Each opportunity demands a unique course of action. It might involve research, initiating a conversation, or jumping in headfirst. Regardless, identify the next logical step and take it.

Establish a Timeline: Specify a time frame for action. It could be immediate, within a week, or the next month. A timeline imparts urgency and curbs procrastination.

Assess and Adapt: Following your action, evaluate the outcome. Did it bring you closer to seizing the opportunity? If not, refine your approach and try again. Failure isn’t the enemy of success; it’s part of the journey.

The Art of Seizing Opportunities

Comprehending that seeing opportunities is a skill cultivated through intentional mental training, notably through harnessing your RAS, is transformative. Like any skill, it requires practice, patience, and resilience. However, the payoff is substantial. As you master the art of ‘Seez Opportunities’, you’ll start to perceive the world in a new light, spotting potential in previously overlooked corners and ready to seize these opportunities when they emerge.

Encourage a mindset of curiosity, stay receptive to new experiences, and challenge established norms. Armed with this approach, you’ll not only spot opportunities at every turn but also be primed to seize them, converting your visions into victories.

Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

[For a more in-depth story demonstrating how Stephen Curry made the most of the opportunities he was given (and created many of his own opportunities), see our SEEz Opportunity Stories page.]

Remember, opportunities don’t just materialize out of thin air – they’re identified by those with the bravery to see beyond the surface and the commitment to act. So, equip yourself with the correct mindset, sharpen your perception, and get ready to ‘Seez Opportunities’ that will lead you to success. After all, it’s not merely about what you look at, but rather, what you see through the powerful lens of your RAS.

SEEz Opportunity Stories

These three “opportunity stories” about Airbnb, JK Rowling and Stephen Curry demonstrate what it means to SEEz Oppty.

Story of Brian Chesky and Airbnb….

Brian Chesky created his own inspirational “opportunity story”

In the mid-2000s, a young man named Brian Chesky was struggling to pay his rent. He was living in San Francisco, trying to make ends meet while pursuing a dream of starting his own business.

One day, as he was brainstorming for ideas to make some extra money, he noticed that all the city’s hotel rooms were booked because of a design conference. An idea sparked in his mind – what if he could rent out space in his apartment to those who couldn’t find a hotel room?

This idea was the genesis of Airbnb, the online marketplace for lodging that has since become a multi-billion dollar company. Chesky’s story demonstrates all the key points in the concept of “Seez Opportunities”.

Vision to Opportunity…

The first key point was about understanding what kind of opportunities you’re looking for. In Chesky’s case, he was looking for a way to make money, specifically a business idea. He already had a goal in mind, which was to start a successful business.

Hidden opportunities…

The second key point was about challenging your own perceptions to uncover hidden opportunities. Chesky could have dismissed the idea of inviting strangers to stay in his apartment as crazy or risky. But he didn’t. Instead, he saw the potential value in providing a more personal, less expensive lodging option for travelers. This change in perspective is what allowed him to identify the opportunity that others missed.

Tool for spotting opportunities…

The third key point was about leveraging your brain’s Reticular Activating System (RAS) to spot opportunities. The RAS is the part of our brain that helps us filter out unnecessary information and focus on what’s important. By setting a clear goal of finding a business idea, Chesky’s RAS was primed to spot relevant opportunities – like the problem of unavailable hotel rooms during conferences.

Taking Action…

The fourth key point was about taking action on the opportunities you find. Once Chesky identified the opportunity, he didn’t hesitate to act on it. He and his roommate, Joe Gebbia, bought a few airbeds and created a simple website to advertise their “air bed and breakfast”. The idea took off, and they quickly expanded it into a platform where anyone could rent out their extra space.

The opportunity in continuous improvement…

The final key point was about reflecting on your actions and adjusting your approach based on the results. After launching Airbnb, Chesky and his team faced numerous challenges. They made several mistakes, but each time, they learned from their errors and adjusted their approach. They continuously improved their platform based on feedback from users, and this commitment to learning and adapting is a big part of what made Airbnb successful.

Brian Chesky’s “opportunity story” is a testament to the power of seeing and seizing opportunities. From spotting the initial opportunity to adapting his approach over time, he demonstrated all the key steps in the process. And his success with Airbnb shows just how transformative this skill can be. Whether you’re looking for a business idea, a career move, or a personal growth opportunity, the ability to “Seez Opportunities” can open up a world of possibilities.

J.K. Rowling: A Journey from Adversity to Opportunity

The backstory for J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, is an incredible “Opportunity Story”

In the annals of literary history, few names shine as brightly as J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series. Her journey from hardship to extraordinary success is an inspiring testament to spotting and seizing opportunities.

The Struggle…

Before she became a household name, Rowling was a single mother struggling to make ends meet. She was jobless and living in Edinburgh, Scotland, going through a challenging phase that she described as being “as poor as it is possible to be in modern Britain, without being homeless.”

Focus First…

Defining her focus was the first step in Rowling’s journey. She had always loved writing, with countless stories penned from a young age. The idea of a young wizard named Harry Potter came to her during a delayed train journey. Despite her personal difficulties, she recognized this as an opportunity to create a unique world of magic and wonder.

SEE what’s possible…

Next, Rowling demonstrated the importance of broadening one’s perception. Given her challenging situation, writing a novel might have seemed like a daunting task. Yet, she saw it as a path to change her life. She started writing the Harry Potter series in cafes while her baby daughter slept next to her, seizing every moment to create.

Rowling’s Reticular Activating System (RAS) was at work here. By focusing on her goal of completing the novel, she was able to spot opportunities in her day-to-day life to write, even when her situation was far from ideal.

Rejection after rejection…

After finishing her manuscript, she faced numerous rejections from publishers. However, Rowling seized the opportunity to learn from these rejections. She persevered, believing in her story and characters, demonstrating the ability to reflect and adapt in the face of adversity.

The opportunity she was looking for finally arrived when Bloomsbury Publishing decided to publish her book, primarily persuaded by the CEO’s eight-year-old daughter who loved the first chapter. It wasn’t an instant hit, but the opportunity had been seized, and the stone set in motion.

Opportunity in the US…

The real breakthrough came when Scholastic Inc. won the auction for the rights to publish the book in the US, giving her much-needed financial relief and international exposure. As she saw the opportunity unfold, she capitalized on it, working tirelessly on the rest of the series.

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series became a worldwide phenomenon, inspiring millions of readers and leading to a multi-billion-dollar franchise, including films, merchandise, and theme parks. What started as an idea on a delayed train journey, spotted and seized by a single mother during the toughest time of her life, became one of the most influential series in modern literature.

The Journey…

Rowling’s journey demonstrates the power of seeing and seizing opportunities. From identifying her passion for writing, to persisting despite rejections, her story reminds us that opportunities can come from the most unexpected places. It takes a clear vision, broad perception, resilience, and the courage to take action when the chance appears. It is a true “opportunity story”!

Rowling once said, “Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” Her journey from rock bottom to the heights of literary success is an inspiring real-life example of seeing and seizing opportunities, providing invaluable lessons that we can all learn from.

The Inspiring “Opportunity Story” of Stephen Curry

May 10, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) shoots the basketball against the Los Angeles Lakers during the third quarter in game five of the 2023 NBA playoffs conference semifinals round at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Stephen Curry is an exceptional figure in the world of sports. He’s a two-time NBA MVP and a three-time NBA champion. Yet, his rise to stardom wasn’t straightforward. His journey perfectly encapsulates the process of spotting and seizing opportunities, which has led to his extraordinary achievements.

Growing up…

Growing up, Curry was not considered the typical basketball prodigy. He was overlooked due to his smaller size and lean build, attributes that defied the conventional idea of a basketball star. However, instead of being disheartened, Curry saw this as an opportunity to redefine expectations and focused on developing his unique style of play.

Curry’s interest was clear; he wanted to excel in basketball. His goal was to play at a high collegiate level, aiming for Division I schools, but none of the top schools recruited him. Here, he utilized the concept of Reticular Activating System (RAS). He was determined to find an opportunity, he kept his focus on his goal, and in return, his brain helped him spot potential avenues.

Rejection…

Despite the rejection from top Division I schools, he didn’t let this hinder his vision. Instead, he broadened his perception. He accepted a scholarship offer from Davidson College, a lesser-known Division I school. This move was an excellent example of challenging the traditional route and considering less obvious paths to achieve his goals.

Once at Davidson, Curry’s game flourished. He was now seeing opportunities every day and seizing them. He became one of the nation’s leading scorers and led the Wildcats on an unexpected tournament run. His performance during the 2008 NCAA Tournament, where he led Davidson to the Elite 8, was a prime example of seizing an opportunity to showcase his talent on a national stage.

Doubted …

Even with his successful college career, when the 2009 NBA Draft came, Curry wasn’t a top pick. He was selected as the seventh pick by the Golden State Warriors, a team that had been struggling for years. Many doubted his ability to perform at an elite NBA level, but Curry saw it as an opportunity.

Once in the NBA, Curry began to revolutionize the game with his extraordinary shooting and handling skills. He, along with his team, transformed the Golden State Warriors from underdogs to champions. Curry’s ability to see this opportunity, despite the odds, resulted in an unparalleled career and a transformed NBA team.

Opportunites for Growth…

Curry continually reassesses his game, reflecting on his performance and adapting his strategies. He has grown from being an excellent shooter to a versatile player who can also assist, rebound, and defend, showing his commitment to evolution and improvement.

His journey to becoming one of the greatest shooters in NBA history is a testament to the power of spotting and seizing opportunities. Curry’s story teaches us that opportunities may not always come in the shape and size we expect. It’s about adjusting our lens to spot them, having the courage to seize them, and the determination to use them to the best of our abilities.

Indeed, the “opportunity story” of Stephen Curry is a perfect real-life example of the “Seez Opportunities” mantra. It shows that opportunities are always around us – we just need to know how to identify and seize them. It’s a lesson not only applicable in sports but also in every facet of our lives.

Comment?

Please leave a comment to let us know if these “opportunity stories” helped you think about how to SEEz Oppty. Were they interesting? If you want to read Coach Wheeler’s article on how to SEEz Oppty, click here.

The Need for Speed

The Importance of Speed in Basketball

Basketball is a game of intensity and quick transitions. A key determinant of success in this adrenaline-fueled sport is speed. But when we say ‘speed,’ we’re not merely referring to how fast a player can sprint from one end of the court to the other. Speed in basketball is multidimensional—it encompasses physical agility, mental acuity, and strategic adaptability.

Physical Speed and Agility

Strength and agility allow an athlete to exercise better control. An agile athlete can change direction quickly and outrun his/her opponent.

Norbert Juma, Editor of EverydayPower.com

At its core, basketball requires physical speed. The ability to swiftly maneuver around the court, both offensively and defensively, can have a profound impact on a player’s performance. The ability to move confidently allows players to reach the basket quicker, defend more effectively, and react to changes in the game instantaneously. It can mean the difference between a well-executed fast break and a missed opportunity.

Speed also ties in closely with agility—the capacity to change direction quickly and efficiently. Agile players are able to dodge defenders, swiftly shift between offensive and defensive modes, and maintain control of the ball under pressure. As Bill Russell famously said, “Quickness is the essence of the game.”

Mental Agility and Decision-Making

“Speed is not just about moving fast;
it’s about making fast decisions.”

John Wooden

Speed, however, is not solely a physical attribute. Cognitive agility —the ability to quickly process information, make decisions, and react accordingly—is equally vital in basketball. When a player has the ball, they need to rapidly assess the situation, consider their options, and make a decision, all in a matter of seconds. This mental agility significantly influences a player’s effectiveness on the court.

Quick decision-making can contribute to efficient plays, reduced turnovers, and well-timed passes. It’s a key factor in running a smooth offense and making split-second decisions that can change the course of the game. As the great basketball coach John Wooden once stated, “Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be.”

Strategically Fast and Adaptable?

Finally, strategic speed—the capability to adapt game plans in response to the opponent’s tactics—plays an instrumental role in basketball. In a dynamic and unpredictable game, a team’s ability to quickly adjust their strategy can be the difference between winning and losing.

Coaches and players must observe the opposing team, recognize patterns, anticipate their moves, and adjust their own tactics on the fly. Successful teams are those that can swiftly shift strategies without losing momentum, capitalizing on their strengths and exploiting their opponents’ weaknesses.

Training for Speed

Given its vital role in basketball, it’s essential for players to train for speed. This includes both physical training—such as sprinting drills, agility ladders, and plyometric exercises—and cognitive training, such as learning to read the game, understanding different strategies, and practicing quick decision-making.

But as Michael Jordan suggested, it’s not about wishing for it to happen; it’s about making it happen. Consistent effort, perseverance, and a growth mindset are required to improve speed. Every practice, every drill, every game is an opportunity to become faster—physically, mentally, and strategically.

Do you have “The Need for Speed”?

I feel very comfortable going at full speed.

Steve Nash, NBA All Star and League MVP

In basketball, speed is far more than just a physical trait—it’s a fundamental element that permeates every aspect of the game. From physical agility to mental acuity, from strategic adaptability to constant learning, speed in its various forms can give players and teams a significant advantage.

In the words of the great basketball coach, Phil Jackson, “Basketball is a sport that involves the subtle interweaving of players at full speed to the point where they are thinking and moving as one.” Speed—whether physical, mental, or strategic—is at the heart of this interweaving, and mastering it is crucial to basketball success.

So, whether you’re a player aiming to improve your game or a coach looking to guide your team to victory, remember—the importance of speed in basketball can never be overstated. As the game continues to evolve, speed remains a key component, underscoring its timeless relevance in this fast-paced sport.

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Perception is Reality:

In the 1980s, the American political strategist Lee Atwater said simply and succinctly: “Perception is reality”.

Perception is reality – this three-word phrase carries profound significance. It is the lens through which we view our world, shaping our understanding of ourselves, the people around us, and society at large. It is not just a point of view, but a fundamental truth that influences our actions, reactions, and ultimately, our results. As we embark on the journey to winning, we must first triumph over the battleground of perception.

Winning the Inner Game

This chapter explores the three pillars of perception – Perception of others in our life, Perception of you as created within society/social media, and Perception of self. We’ll learn from the wisdom of thought leaders like Tony Robbins, Jim Rohn, Jordan Peterson, Geno Auriemma, Abraham Lincoln, Barack Obama, and John Wooden, drawing upon their writings and speeches to enlighten our understanding.

The Power of Your Tribe:
Perception of Others in Your Life

Perception is reality

In the quest for winning, the role of those around us cannot be overstated. As the legendary Jim Rohn observed, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” This reality showcases the transformative power of our immediate social circle – their perceptions can significantly shape our personal reality. It’s a phenomenon of social mirroring, wherein we unconsciously adopt the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of those closest to us.

The charismatic life coach Tony Robbins emphasizes the connection between the quality of our lives and the expectations of our peer group. We are deeply influenced, consciously and unconsciously, by their perceptions and expectations.

So, how can we leverage this reality? Be intentional about the company you keep. Seek out those who inspire you, who push you to grow. Yet, maintain your uniqueness. Absorb the positive, let the negative flow past. Remember, you are not merely a reflection of others’ perceptions – you are the artist of your own reality.

The Digital Persona:
Perception of You Created Within Society/Social Media

Social Media Perception is reality

As we navigate the digital age, the perception of us within society and on social media has taken on a new dimension. It’s an arena where perception can often eclipse reality. This phenomenon reminds us of the wisdom imparted by John Wooden, the exceptional basketball coach, who said, “Be more concerned with your character than your reputation.”

Today, our society shapes a narrative, a brand of ‘you.’ Social media platforms magnify this perception, often blurring the lines between reality and illusion. Robbins suggests, “It’s not about the goal. It’s about growing to become the person that can accomplish that goal.” Society and social media can either facilitate or hinder this growth.

How can we navigate this new digital reality? Remember, you are more than your online persona. Authenticity resonates. Stand for your values, share not just your triumphs but also your trials. Use these platforms to inspire, to learn, and to narrate your own unique journey. You are the author of your story, society, and social media are just the platforms.

The Inner Self:
Perception of Who You Are

What do you see when you look in the mirror every morning?

Jordan Peterson, a noted psychologist, preaches the importance of putting your house in order before criticizing the world. This advice extends to our perception as well. Our self-perception lays the foundation of our reality. It’s the prism through which we view and interpret the world.

However, we often fall into the trap of becoming our own harshest critics. This skewed self-perception can create a harsher reality than what truly exists. Geno Auriemma, a renowned basketball coach, aptly said, “What you permit, you promote. What you allow, you encourage.” If we permit a distorted self-perception, we promote a distorted reality.

How can we adjust this perception? Robbins proposes changing our strategy. Understand that you are a work in progress. Recognize your flaws, but celebrate your strengths. Own your mistakes, but also revel in your victories. The pursuit is not for perfection but for progression. By embracing our complexities, we start altering the perception of self.

Overcoming Frustration

Overcome your frustration by changing your perception of reality

Embarking on the journey of changing perception isn’t easy. It’s fraught with frustrations and obstacles. But as Robbins advises, “Identify your problems but give your power and energy to solutions.” Frustrations are not walls, they are mirrors. They reflect what we need to understand about our perceptions and ourselves.

John Wooden’s philosophy adds a powerful perspective to dealing with frustrations – “Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” When faced with frustration, focus on your strengths and abilities. Transform frustrations into growth opportunities.

Barack Obama’s wisdom fits here beautifully. He once said, “Change is never easy, but always possible.” Changing perceptions is no different. It’s a journey filled with challenges, but the destination makes the journey worthwhile.

Abraham Lincoln’s statement provides another layer of insight. He said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” We can apply this to our perceptions. We can shape our future by consciously molding our perceptions today.

Wrap UP

Pick the facts you want and reinforce them in everything you do

“Perception is reality.” This powerful statement carries immense implications for our journey towards winning. However, perception is not fixed. Like a river, it is fluid, adapting and evolving with time. It is influenced by our experiences and in turn, influences our reality.

Navigating the journey of perception may seem like traversing a complex maze, but it is through this maze that we come to understand ourselves and our world. Every twist, every turn, every dead-end, and every clear path offers lessons for growth.

Embark on this journey with courage, patience, and resilience. For it is through understanding and molding our perceptions that we earn our victories, not just in the world outside, but most importantly, in the battleground within. In the end, perception isn’t just reality, it’s the foundation upon which our winning is built and ultimately, earned.

What is your experience?
Please share in the comments!

Please leave a comment below and let us know your experiences with the “Perception is Reality” concept in your life, good or bad. It will make our website more interesting and we would really appreciate it!

Additional Resources related to
“Perception is Reality”….

Tony Robbins’ “Awaken the Giant Within“ – This book delves deep into the concept of personal perception and provides actionable steps on how to harness and change our perceptions. You can look for it on Amazon or other book-selling platforms.

Jordan Peterson’s “12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos” – Peterson explores the importance of self-perception and self-improvement. This book can be found on multiple platforms like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc. [The hardcover version is, at the time of this writing, selling for less than $15 on Amazon.com.]

Jim Rohn‘s “7 Strategies for Wealth & Happiness” – This book presents strategies on how to better navigate the influence of others’ perceptions in your life.

John Wooden‘s “Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court” – This book provides insights into how society’s perception of an individual can influence their actions.

The Obama White House Archives – On this website, you can find many speeches where Barack Obama discusses change and overcoming adversity.

Geno Auriemma’s Interviews and Speeches – Auriemma often speaks about self-perception and leadership in sports. His interviews and speeches can be found on various sports news websites and video-sharing platforms like YouTube.

Lincoln’s Letters and Speeches – Abraham Lincoln’s letters and speeches are insightful, many of which discuss the power of self-creation and shaping one’s future. These can be found on academic databases or dedicated historical sites.

Other points of view:

“Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” by Susan Cain – This book provides a contrasting view on how perception is influenced by introverted versus extroverted personality traits.

“The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains” by Nicholas Carr – This book discusses the impact of the internet (including social media) on our minds, offering a different perspective on the influence of digital platforms on our self-perception and reality.

What is Fastbreak Basketball?

Guest blogger: Coach Johnny Pantusso

Fastbreak basketball is an exciting and popular way of playing the game of basketball. It is an up-tempo style of play characterized by a team quickly transitioning from offense to defense and vice versa.

The teams that excel in fastbreak basketball are able to capitalize on their opponent’s mistakes to create easy scoring opportunities. The primary objective of fastbreak basketball is to score as many points as quickly as possible.

How to Fastbreak…

Teams that fastbreak accomplish it by making good use of turnovers and missed shots. If a team can capitalize on their opponent’s mistakes, they can score points quickly. If a team can defend well and force their opponent to take longer shots, they can also score quickly by getting the ball down the court in a hurry.

One of the key components of fastbreak basketball is the ability to quickly transition from offense to defense and vice versa. This means that the players must be able to quickly react to the ball and make the necessary adjustments. If the players can make these adjustments quickly, they can create easy scoring opportunities and put their opponents on their heels.

The fastbreak also requires a team to be able to move the ball up the court quickly and accurately. This requires players to make good passes, set screens, and have good timing. A good fastbreak will be able to move the ball up the court quickly while still being able to make the correct passes and find open shots.

Teamwork…

In order for a team to be successful in fastbreak basketball, they must be able to play as a cohesive unit. This means that every player must be able to read the play and anticipate the movements of their teammates.

Good communication by players is also key. Players must be able to call out plays and let their teammates know where they will be on the court. Fastbreak basketball is an exciting and dynamic style of play that requires good communication, teamwork, and quick thinking. It can be a great way to score points quickly and efficiently. That is if the team can effectively transition from offense to defense and make good passes. When utilized properly, fastbreak basketball can make a team unstoppable.

Rim Run NOW!

Rim Run NOWWhen is NOW a good time to Rim Run? I hope you answered “NOW!” because it is one of those HUSTLE plays that can get you easy baskets while also killing the morale of the opposition. It is also a key part of “playing without the ball” ask explained by Jayson Wells of PGC Basketball.

Check out the video below from PGC Basketball that talks about what Rim Running means (and some moves you can use) …

What did you think of the video?

Leave a comment below to tell us your feedback on this video and whether we should continue to find and post videos like this as part of the Building a Winning Mindset blog. Also let us know if you have tried the Rim Run skills mentioned in the video.

Coach Wheeler’s Formula for Success

Coach Wheeler's Formula for SuccessThis article is a little different from the other ones on this blog. Different in a good way.  The topic of Success is probably more related to your career or life in general… and less “basketball specific”. I think you will find that  Coach Wheeler’s “Formula for Success” is in the vein of John Wooden’s “Pyramid of Success” that he taught his players at UCLA. If you want to “build a winning mindset”, you will definitely be interested in Coach Wheeler’s “Formula for Success”.

What kind of Formula for Success
are we talking about?

While Wheeler’s Formula for Success is primarily focused on business or career success, it can be applied in other ways. (I am hoping you will leave a comment after reading this article saying how you are going to apply the ideas in your life.) If you are looking for financial success, whether you have a job or a business, you will certainly find this “thinking framework” helpful.

Inspired by…

12 Rules for lifeThe top level concept, that your “volume & quality of work” determines your overall success, was inspired by Jordan B. Peterson. He is a clinical psychologist, tenured Professor at University of Toronto and, in general, a pretty smart guy from what I can tell. His knowledge of clinical psychology studies allows him to provide insights that many other “self-help” authors either miss or aren’t backing up with science. To paraphrase the success quote from him that inspired this article, “Success in life is predicted, primarily, by 2 traits: industriousness and intelligence.” (He also has a book out that is called “The 12 Rules for Life” which I have heard a lot about on podcasts so I am hoping to read it soon.)

First Layer of the Formula…

Coach Wheeler's Formula for SuccessThis probably won’t sound earth shattering but it should make immediate sense when you think about it. “The volume and quality of your work determines your [eventual] success in life.” Duh? Right?

If we stopped there, you probably would not get much out of this formula because that statement is common sense.  But if we go deeper, you should find more ideas that you can turn into actions which will lead you to more success in your chosen field.

Next Level…

As you can see in the diagram above, I am calling the “volume” side of the formula “Hard Work”. I think we can all agree that putting in more effort and time (the definition of “hard work”?), will result in more output and productivity. If you produce more, your results should (over time) lead to success.

What goes into “Hard Work”?

Hard Work - Formula for SuccessThe Formula for Success has 3 parameters under “Hard Work”. They are (1) Passion, (2) Health and (3) Consciences. Let’s look at each in more depth.

(HW-1) Passion. We all need motivation if we are going to put in the hard work that is needed for success. Developing the skills of self motivation will help you do the work that others (i.e. the competition) won’t. It will also help you go further than the competition as well. The reason it is such common wisdom to say “Live Your Passion” is because it is critical to enjoy the process of “work” … so you will do more than your competitors. Think about it this way, if you are motivated by a passion for your work… is it really HARD work? Probably not.  On the other hand, will you be passionate about everything you need to do? No, but we will talk about that in the third element of Hard Work, Consciences.

(HW-2) Health. This should be self-evident and common sense, but if you don’t maintain your health, you won’t be able to produce as much as possible. Letting your health decline will reduce your energy and may even “take you out of the game.” Aside from all the diet guru’s who are giving you weight management advice, Health is actually pretty simple. The three key elements of Health are a) Food, b) Sleep and c) Play.

I use the word “Play” (instead of exercise) on purpose. If you approach exercise as drudgery, you won’t enjoy it and I have heard that the effectiveness will actually decrease. Choose an exercise that you can, on some level, enjoy. It will energize your mind while building up your physical capacity at the same time.

Do we really need to discuss Diet & Sleep? 8 hours of sleep is a good goal but you can tell what works for you. If I could recommend one change to your diet, I would ask you to drink more water (instead of calorie-filled & chemical-filled drinks). We all know that green veggies are your friend… and they will impact your health & work output. Think about it like this… imagine you get a raise at work for every time you have a meal with green vegetables. [It doesn’t really work like that, but isn’t it a neat way to convince yourself to eat better?]

(HW-3) Consciences. This is related to self-discipline as well as self-identity. Are you the type of person who does what needs to be done? Especially WHEN it needs to be done? Author Jocko Willink has a good quote (and book by the same name), “Discipline = Freedom“. This is the one area that you can make the most immediate impact … if you pay attention to your thoughts and take control of your habitual ways of thinking.

Power of Habit by Charles DuhiggI’m not talking about willpower.  Willpower is  a limited resource and it can “go away” when you are tired at the end of a long day or you have a dip in your motivation. Be sure to build as much of your “need to do” activities into habits and routines that you don’t have to think about. A good book for learning how to do this is “The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg.

One more thing about Hard Work…

Before we look at the other side of the formula (Smarts), I should explain one particular part of the Hard Work diagram. Did you notice the words “Goya”, “Goya”, “Goya” where the connector lines lead into the Hard Work bubble? This is taken from a motivational speech by inspirational keynote speaker Croix Sather. GOYA is an acronym for “Get Off Your Ass”. In terms of Coach Wheeler’s formula for success, GOYA is a reminder that you need to TAKE ACTION and not just think about what you should be doing. This is also a great transition into the “Smarts” portion of Coach Wheeler’s Formula for Success… as we keep in mind that thinking alone won’t get you what you want!

Let’s Get Smart!

Smarts-Formula for SuccessThe second major component of Success is “Smarts” or “general intelligence”. Coach Wheeler breaks this down into 3 parts, (1) Knowledge, (2) Social Skills and (3) Problem Solving. Going back to Jordan B. Peterson, he has said that the studies show intelligence, as measured by IQ, is incredibly difficult to improve. On the other hand, Knowledge can continually be accumulated and you can gather facts or ideas that you can use across a wide variety of situations. Coach Wheeler also added Social Skills to his model for success and we will discuss how to build and leverage them more below.

(S-1) Knowledge. As we go through life, we pick up information that we can then apply to solving problems in the future. This increases the value of our output and increases our chances for success. As you learned above, IQ is tough to change but we can “look smart” by simply learning “the tricks” for success in a given situation. There are typically two ways that we learn… independent learning and structured learning.

Independent learning is when we take the initiative and learn on our own. Examples include watching instructional YouTube video or reading books. There is an amazing amount of information out there and we probably have more access to information now than at any other time in history thanks to the internet and search engines. Smart people continue to learn.

Structured learning would include traditional schooling or perhaps one-on-one coaching. One of my favorite sayings about school is “Math = Money”. This means that learning math in school will help you handle money (and grow your wealth) when you get out into the “real world”. Depending on the quality of your teachers, it might be easy to get bored or “zone out” in school. Stay focused and keep asking yourself questions that help you stay engaged. “How will I use this in my life?” is a good one to start.

(S-2) Social Skills. There are many different types of “Smarts” and your ability to work with, and influence, other people is a major consideration when determining the quality of your work. We are not saying that you should try to make everyone happy. Sometimes you need to create conflict to get what you want or solve the problem that you are presented.

Toastmasters - Public Speaking and LeadershipAnother way to look at social skills is your ability to communicate effectively. On top of that, your leadership skills figure into your eventual success. How do you improve these things? Join Toastmasters. They are a world-wide non-profit organization dedicate to helping their members improve their public speaking and leadership skills. Find a chapter near you by visiting their website… Toastmasters International.

(S-3) Problem Solving.  This is typically correlated to the people’s “inherited” qualities of IQ and creativity. Even though much of your qualities may be genetic, there is still a skill that can be developed. If you want more ideas on how to improve your Problem Solving, here is the first article in our series on the topic. To learn when we publish more Problem Solving articles, be sure to sign up for our email notification service (in the right column on this page).

It is a fair statment to say that the quality of your work output is generally tied directly to your ability to solve problems. Brain Power (i.e. IQ) is good to have, especially when you are tackling more complex problems but everyone can learn how to solve problems. If you are motivated and work hard at accumulating the knowledge you need to solve problems in your area of expertise, you will be successful. This is where I tell you that all the parts of Coach Wheeler’s Formula for Success work together to make you successful.  But you probably already figured that out, right?

Bottom Line…

Will Coach Wheeler’s Formula For Success work for you? Like they say “The program will work… if you work the program.” I don’t think there is anything too “out there” in this formula. It should be easy to understand… but what are you going to do with it? Can you “up your game” when it comes to Hard Work? What do you need to improve on the “Smarts” side of the Formula for Success? If you don’t change what you do, how can you expect different results? The choice is up to you. You can use the formula… or you can “go with the flow” and take whatever life gives you. Which do you think will turn out the best for you?

Downloadable Bonus !

Coach Wheeler's Formula for SuccessCongratulations! You have made it all the way to the end of this article. You deserve a reward for your efforts. (Hopefully the article was interesting and not exactly “hard work”.) Your bonus for making it this far is a downloadable copy of Coach Wheeler’s Formula for Success diagram. You are welcome to share it on social media and, ideally provide a link back to this article. Right-Click on the link below and “Save As” to get the downloadable PDF version!
SuccessFormula-download-CoachWheeler

 

How to Win the Timeout

Brad Stevens - How to Win The Timeout
photo credit: nbawire.com

Have you ever thought about what needs to happen for your team to “win the timeout”? NCAA.com reports that “Possessions after timeouts account for 15-18 percent of possessions in a game. The worst teams score around .7 ppp. Average teams score around .85 ppp. The best score more than 1.0 ppp. And there are many teams who execute better within seconds of receiving advice from the coaching staff.”

Brad Stevens, the head coach for the Boston Celtics, is known for having his team run highly successful plays “After a Time Out” or ATO. How can you “win the timeout”? Answer: If you think about the situation that created the timeout, there are certain things you can do, as a coach, to give your team the best chance for a successful play immediately following the timeout.

Why was the timeout called?

To slow your opponent’s momentum and regroup your team? Or is it the other way around and you are on a run so the opposing coach wants to slow you down? Whatever the reason for the timeout, you can use it to your advantage.

For example, if you are on a roll and the other team is trying to slow you down… why not switch up something when you come out of the timeout? Something that is different from what you have been doing could cause enough confusion on the other team for you to get a steal or force a bad shot.

Doing something unexpected is always a good tactic… as long as it is something you have practiced and that uses your team’s strengths.

Aside from the “unexpected”,
what else can we do to “win the timeout”?

HUSTLE. It can demoralize the other team if you show them that you are not tired (even if you are) by hustling to your bench. It also gives you an extra second or two together that the other team doesn’t get (because you arrive at your bench sooner).

3 PART TIMEOUT. If you are organized as a team, you will be able to accomplish more during your timeout. For example, I like to use a 3 part timeout process which consists of (1) Feedback, (2) Tactics and (3) Motivation.

(1) Feedback is a quick check of the status of your team. Where is their head at? Are they confident and engaged in the game? How tired are they and does anyone need a quick rest? This should not take long, maybe a few seconds, but you want to address any problems they are experiencing on the court.

(2) Tactics. This is typical timeout actions… drawing up plays, switching defenses, whatever you need to do to gain an advantage.

From NCAA.com… Advance scouting, game observation and gut instinct help coaches make the right call in a huddle. Clemson’s Brad Brownell is in his 15th season as a head coach. Over the years, he’s learned that the less information he heaps onto his players in a timeout, the better.

“A clear, concise message is important.” he said. “In a shorter timeout of 30 seconds it might be just giving them one thought as it pertains to what they’re trying to defend, preparation for something that could happen, anticipating, a couple of different play calls or whatever it is.”

(3) Motivation is getting your team excited to execute the plan you have laid out for them after the timeout. If you are not getting a strong response, this is your opportunity to “get them on board’ or make a slight change to the plan. By this point in the timeout, you probably won’t have much time and it is good to have a chant or yell that your team executes at the end of every timeout that gets them going. Again, this should be something that has been practiced so you know how the team will react.

Bottom Line…

Coach Wheeler with the Monadnock team at the Granite State Games
Go Team!

Will this guarantee that you will “win the timeout”? No. All it will do is give you a framework so that you and your team can do their best work. You never know what the competition will do… they may have even read this article too. All you can do is prepare your team and make the best use of the time you are given. That way you at least have a good chance to “win the timeout”. Now,  1-2-3… GO TEAM!

Things I Know – Coach Wheeler’s Basketball edition

This post is about the “Things I Know” when it comes playing basketball “the correct way”, i.e. the way that I like my teams to play. Each of these short “Things I Know” is followed by an action that players should carry out in the described situation.

Are these statements true in every situation? Probably not, but they are true in enough game situations that they should be worth building into your game plan. I should add that as you progress to higher and higher levels of basketball, e.g. college or the pros, the best players know these “things” and make sure they are the “exception to the rule”. In any case, my hope is that these “Things I know” will give you something to think about. (I also look forward to your ideas / feedback in the comments section below!)

1)  Players go slower when dribbling with their weak hand.
—-> Force them to their weak hand.

2)  Players dribbling with their weak hand will look for opportunities to switch back to their strong hand.
—-> Steal the ball when it is “presented”.

3)  Many players (especially in high school) won’t shoot with their weak hand (when they should).
—-> Block the shot.

4)  Offensive players who are trapped will often throw poor passes.
—-> Trap with hands up (don’t foul).
—-> Non-trap defenders must be ready and steal the pass.

5)  Tired players make mistakes.
—-> We want to tire out the other team, especially their primary ball handler(s), so that we can force them into mistakes later in the game.

6)  There is such a thing as a “good foul”.
—-> Non-shooting foul preferred
—-> A good foul prevents the other team from getting an easy shot.
—-> A good foul is also the result of hustle and aggressive defense.

7)  Defenders can U based on these three “Things I know”, if they are studying their opponent…
a) patterns / what the offense has done before
b) what appears to be the offense’s best option
c) where the offensive player is looking.
—-> Steal the ball.

8)  Help Defenders must put their body in the path of the [driving] offensive player.
—-> Concentrate on the ball… and take it away.
—-> Remember where your man was… anticipate the pass and steal it.

9)  On almost every play, a pass goes by a defender at shoulder or waist height but it is not deflected because the defender didn’t have their hands up (or wasn’t paying attention to the ball).
—-> Keep your hands up and in the passing lanes [at “pass height”].
—-> It is OK to stop a pass with your foot. Defense will be called for a “kick” but the other team’s offense will be disrupted and they will have to take the ball out of bounds (OOB).

10)  More fast breaks are killed by the player who rebounds the ball and then holds onto it.
—-> Pass the ball immediately. Know where your team mate will be.

11) Passing is faster than dribbling.
—-> Pass the ball to the open man ahead of you.

12)  RUN. Don’t slow down on a fastbreak. [this is most often done at, or near, the 3 point line].
—-> Break TO the basket first and then create space for a kickout pass.
—-> Don’t forget the 4th or 5th man down the court. Hit the trailer for a layup.
—-> Move the ball! Don’t let the defense set up.

13)  Offensive players must GET OPEN. Standing in place lets the defense to jump the pass when it is thrown to you.
—-> Use contact with your defender to create an opening for the pass.
—-> Put your hand out as a target to show your team mate where to pass the ball.

14)  Don’t run diagonally to get open. [This applies most often to guards being pressured in the backcourt.] Defenders can beat you to the ball when you cut diagonally.
—-> Use contact to get open.

15)  Call out picks. [No Excuses]

16)  When an offensive player picks up their dribble, they are locked to that location on the floor and their passing options are limited.
—-> Scream BALL, BALL, BALL when you see the offensive player pull up their dribble. It will increase their stress level and make it more likely that they will throw a bad pass.
—-> If you are covering the player who pulls up their dribble, get up close and extend your arms. Do not reach. Mirror the ball and try to tip any pass they might try to throw.

No list of “Things I Know” would be complete without mentioning OOB…

17)  When defending an Out of Bounds (OOB) situation, there are 5 defenders and only 4 offensive players on the court. (The inbounding player cannot move, unless it is immediately after a basket.) This gives an advantage to the defense (which many teams do not leverage until, maybe, the last play of the game).
—-> Double team someone, ideally the offensive team’s best player. Prevent the inbound pass to all other players.
—-> If the OOB is under the basket, protect the basket at all costs. “Nothing Inside!”
—-> Switch on picks. Call them out.
—-> Another option is to put your biggest defender (with longest arms) on the guy taking the ball out of bounds and try to tip the inbounds pass. The defender should mirror the ball so they can get a hand on the pass.
—-> If the OOB is after the basket, some of this does not apply…

Those are 17 “Things I know” – Basketball edition. They might also be called Coach Wheeler’s Pet Peeves since they are simple ways that a team can improve their advantage versus the competition. None of these things are very difficult but they do require some effort and even practice so that can be done automatically at a fast pace in a game.

What would you add to this list of Things I know? Please leave a comment below and tell us your ideas.

4 Part Basketball Year

The one basketball season ends and another basketball year begins. If you are only playing and working on your game during the “official school season” than you are missing out.  Below are the 4 sections / timelines that make up the “4 part basketball year” plus the off-season.  Let’s start with the day after your school season ends…

Off Season (Spring/Summer/Fall)

  • Spring AAU
  • Summer League
  • Fall AAU
  • Open gym(s) at school
  • Pickup games
  • Weight Training

Once practices can start, the season is officially ON !  Below are the parts of the season along with the focus area for each time period.

1st Quarter- Pre-Season – before first game

  • Tryouts
  • Practices / Conditioning
  • Learn techniques and formations
  • Scrimmages
  • Keep it simple / Learn The Basics

 

2nd Quarter – First Encounters (1st Half of Season)

  • Play first round of home/away games
  • Find out what works vs. competition (adapt as needed)
  • Fine tune & Accelerate “The Basics”
  • Continue conditioning / strength gains
  • Gauge the competition (Strengths & Weaknesses)

 

3rd Quarter – Revenge/Payback time (2nd Half of Season)

  • Must get better (the competition isn’t standing still)
  • Prep for playoffs
  • Keep conditioning / Make it Fun !
  • Maintain FOCUS. Stay sharp.
  • Take breaks when needed to maintain energy.
  • Cold & Flu season… rest to recover quicker.

 

4th Quarter – Win or Go Home (Playoffs)

  • Perform at your best.
  • Few “Easy Wins”… even lower seeds are playing hard.
  • Have a few surprises up your sleeve.
  • High level of Mental Toughness / Facing The Challenges
Why use “4 Part Basketball Year”?

Breaking up the season into “chucks”, each with a different area of focus and specific “feel”, helps your team fight the boredom of a long season. It also breaks up the grind of weeks of conditioning and keeps players fresh.

A physical test in each quarter, either as part of a game or practice, can be a good milestone to show progress when compared with tests earlier in the season.  I like to have some standard tests for evaluating players and it is good to come back to them in each section of the season to show players that they are indeed getting better.

Bottom line…

Looking at the overall season as a “4 part basketball year” helps your planning efforts as a coach. It should also make the year more enjoyable and more successful for your players. The outline above is just a starting point. Feel free to add your own components to each section and use the outline as a planning tool for this year as well as years to come. If you see something that doesn’t belong, please leave us a comment below. Even if you disagree, your comments and ideas will be helping us get better.