Fast Five: Belief System

Success demands belief, belief based on work ethic, preparation, and proven success. That matters in athletics, professions, education, and business. 

Leaders help players to believe in the process of earning success. 

1. The Pyramid of Success. Coach John Wooden's "Pyramid of Success" has critical elements as the cornerstones (industriousness and enthusiasm) and a concrete core (condition, skill, team spirit). 

But near the top, flanking competitive greatness are faith (belief) and patience (time). Wooden recognized the force multiplication added by belief. 

2. Belief allows us to persist in the face of adversity. We persist because we believe. 

3. Belief drives us toward our goals and vision. Belief helps us transform "I can" and "I will" into "I do". Great accomplishments of history such as manned flight by the Wright Brothers accompanied unshakeable belief in their work reflecting both their study and development of the technological advancements preceding flight itself. 

4. Our beliefs become our destiny. Belief becomes part of the process that becomes who we are, not just what we do. Belief allows us to transform and reinvent ourselves. Belief links our attitude, choices, and effort. 

5. The most important words. The most powerful statement we can make to our students is "I believe in you." If we are worthy of their trust, our belief becomes a validation of their effort and their worth.