Our effectiveness or limitations reflect both helpful and unhelpful words and actions.
Just as Kevin Eastman shared positive words in Why the Best Are the Best, we should also focus on the unhelpful. Ask where we're inefficient or unhelpful.
1. "Don't whine, don't complain, don't make excuses." - John Wooden
2. Never criticize a teammate.
3. Avoid "Below the Line" behaviors
4. Avoid constant negativity. Some coaches wear players out mentally as much as physically.
5. Be more efficient. Stop the lines, laps, and lectures. Condition within drills. Move quickly from drill to drill.
6. "Never be a victim." During the Donald Sterling saga, Doc Rivers shared that his parents taught him to avoid victimhood. Unhappiness with facilities or practice time isn't going to translate to better anything.
7. Avoid the general. Be specific. When we say, "play hard or play smart," players don't know what we mean.
8. "Don't make presumptions." Players can't read minds.
9. "Ego is the enemy." Make it about the players. Build a program not a statue.
Lagniappe. Get better with competition.