Many would reference his legendary quote:

“Skate to where the puck is going, not where it has been.”

This quote has common-sense appeal, and has been applied liberally by organizational consultants and strategic planners.  And for good reason.  As leaders, sometimes we forget that our surroundings are dynamic. Timing is critical, and the best leaders anticipate what the environment will be and align their future plans accordingly.

Look closely at his stats:

• He holds the league record with 2,857 career points (Goals & Assists);
• One-third of those points (894) were goals he scored;
• That means twice as often, he was assisting others to score.

In fact, the number of points he gained assisting others throughout his career is greater than the total points acquired by any other player in NHL history.

Certainly it pays to anticipate the future.  But that future doesn’t depend upon you, alone – even if you are a superstar.

True greatness is knowing when to take the shot

and when to pass the puck.

By setting up others for success, leaders can achieve even more, individually and for the team. 

I hope Wayne Gretzky lights the Olympic Cauldron tonight.  After 12,000 fellow Canadians carried the Olympic Torch over 45,000 kilometers, somehow it seems fitting that the athlete who assisted so many takes the final shot.

What About You?

• Are you willing to help others score twice as many goals as you?
• Do you know how it feels to have a leader who sets you up for success?
  • How does that affect your attitude toward that leader?
  • Did that experience change your attitude toward those you lead?

 Share your Reply below.

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