"Simple works" until it doesn't. Prodigious writing output doesn't mean quality.
On Bloomberg radio today, host Tom Keene asked a guest, "what belongs on your 3 x 5 card going into 2025?" That's always a good question.
What briefly describes our coaching ethos, coaching methods, and collective beliefs, attitudes, and values?
Each evening, I sit down at my desk and write down the 3-5 highest-impact to-dos for the following day. These are the "important" tasks that directly contribute to my long-term projects or goals.
The list is pure—I specifically avoid writing down all of the miscellaneous urgent and unimportant to-dos (more on that later).
In the morning, I sit down at my desk for my first focus work block and start at the top of the list, working my way down and crossing off the important items as I get through them. My primary goal is to cross each item off the list by the end of the day.
I am intentionally conservative in the number of items I write on the list. It's usually 3, sometimes 4, and very rarely 5. I never want to end the day with open items, so being conservative helps me accomplish that (and get the extra rush from getting through more than I expected).
So what belongs?
1. It's all about relationships - coach-player, player-player, coach-coach. Savor and cultivate them.
2. Put the team first. The best players make everyone around them better.
3. Add value. That requires character and competence. Add value for life.
4. "Every day is player development day." Skill, there is no substitute.
5. Seek work-life balance. On the cusp of retirement, I'm still looking.
On the back of the card, we could have a "what does our team need today?" list to address specifics.
- Contain the ball
- Contest shots without fouling
- Take better shots
- Break the press
- Improve transition D
There's no "life-changing drill." There are life-changing people, life-changing experiences, difference makers.
Merry Christmas!
Lagniappe. How do you teach closeouts?
Boston Celtics Stride Stop Closeouts
— PGC Basketball (@PGCbasketball) December 5, 2024
✅🍀 pic.twitter.com/Xx4HTQgIVS
