đź’ˇ Never Do This #1 Thing - Back to Basics



Practice doesn't make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect
- Herb Brown, Former Head Coach Detroit Piston (brother of Hall of Fame Coach Larry Brown and annual coach at my summer camp growing up!)

Blending Lessons from Herb Brown and Bob Iger

In coaching and leadership, the concept of practice is often revered. Yet, as Herb Brown wisely noted, it’s not just practice that matters—it’s perfect practice. This sentiment resonates deeply when we examine the remarkable leadership of Bob Iger during one of America’s most challenging periods.


The Power of Foundational Skills

Bob Iger, then President and COO of The Walt Disney Company, faced unprecedented challenges following the September 11, 2001 attacks. With tourism plummeting and uncertainty gripping the industry, Iger’s response was not just reactive but deeply rooted in foundational skills he had honed early in his career.


Lessons from Crisis Management

Returning to basics, Iger leveraged his experience in media and crisis management, skills cultivated during his early days at ABC. By reengaging with manual processes and hands-on leadership, he navigated Disney through turbulent times with resilience and clarity.


Leadership in Action

Iger’s approach wasn’t just about reacting—it was about proactively engaging with every aspect of Disney’s operations. His personal involvement and strategic oversight ensured that the company remained stable and focused amidst uncertainty.


Embracing Perfect Practice

As we reflect on Herb Brown’s insight and Bob Iger’s leadership, the message is clear: in both good times and crises, the key lies in perfect practice. It’s not enough to go through the motions; true success stems from deliberate, focused efforts rooted in foundational skills and proactive leadership.


Key Takeaway:

Today, consider how you can apply this principle of perfect practice in your own journey. Reflect on your foundational skills and how they can guide your approach to leadership and decision-making. Embrace the challenge of refining your practices, knowing that perfection isn’t a destination but a continuous pursuit.


Closing Thought:

As we navigate our paths forward, let’s draw inspiration from Herb Brown and Bob Iger. Let’s commit to perfecting our practices, embracing challenges with resilience, and leading with clarity. Together, we can elevate our leadership and drive meaningful impact in our ventures and beyond.


Engagement and Feedback:

I invite you to share your thoughts on today’s insights. How do you approach perfect practice in your leadership journey? What foundational skills have guided you during challenging times? Let’s continue this conversation and explore new perspectives in our pursuit of excellence.


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Andrew Elliot Stern Group

I empower individuals and organizations to come alive by creating and fulfilling on their vision for the future.

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