The Importance Of Cheerleaders And Referees In Your Inner Circle

Expert tips and insights on building a winning team

No one succeeds on their own. Success is a “we” endeavor, while failure is a “me” endeavor. You must find talented, engaged, and creative people for the inner circle of your team. They may be employees, partners, or mentors. Hopefully, everyone on your team will be talented though they will not have the same roles.
 

During a brainstorming or strategy session, some of your team will act as referees. Referees establish boundaries and enforce the logistics and rules of the game. I’ve had some very talented referees on my team throughout the years. As I am thinking about big-picture possibilities, they are evaluating all the details involved in establishing, implementing, and delivering my latest brainchild. It can be frustrating to have referees in the creative process because, as you reach for the stars, they will keep your feet on the ground.
 
If your referees are creating too much burnout in your brainstorming process, you should have your latest idea fully fleshed out before you run it by your referees. While they can create some burnout during the idea phase, they are invaluable as you launch into new and exciting directions.
 
Cheerleaders are the opposite of referees. It’s easy to tell the difference when you watch a game at the stadium or on television. While referees are blowing whistles and throwing flags to stop or limit the activities, cheerleaders call for the players to run faster, jump higher, and win the game.
 
Within the inner circle of your mastermind team, you will want to have your share of cheerleaders. They will be excited about every new idea and concept regardless of the cost or logistical challenges. Cheerleaders see the upside in any proposal without fully acknowledging the downside. It is a rare individual, indeed, that can function both as a referee and a cheerleader.
 
As in most things, the best wisdom comes from a multitude of sources representing all sides of the issue. In the courtroom, truth and justice are best served when the opposing sides each have an opportunity to state their case and cross-examine the opposition. This exchange will be true of your referees and cheerleaders. Before you fully implement any new project, idea, or proposal, your referees, in addition to working out the details and logistics, should acknowledge and embrace the potential of your new endeavor. On the other hand, your cheerleaders should both understand and accept the logistical challenges laid out by your referees.
 
As you go through your day today, fully utilize your cheerleaders and referees.

Author Bio

Jim Stovall is the President of the Emmy-award-winning Narrative Television Network as well as a published author of more than 50 books—eight of which have been turned into movies. He is also a highly sought-after platform speaker.   Follow @Stovallauthor