The Monday MGMT Minute: Playing Games

Success isn't achieved through determination. It's determining the right game to play and the right people to play it with that wins.

Author

Dave Kline
October 28, 2024

Read time: 1 minute

"Only play games you're uniquely suited to win."

Wise advice from a close friend and CEO.

There are multiple lessons hidden in that statement.

Picking the right game is paramount. 

  • How competitive is the space? 

  • Does the game bring me energy?

  • Why am I uniquely suited to win?  

  • Are the rewards worth the effort?

Lesson 1: The easiest game to win is the one you can play the longest. Find the one that looks like work to others but feels like play to you.

Self-awareness is a superpower.

  • Does the game match my strengths?

  • Am I willing to evolve to keep winning?

  • Do I need others to offset my weaknesses?

  • Is this a game I can play for days or decades?

Lesson 2: Leaders optimize for winning, not being the one to take the winning shot. When complementary people join your team, 1+1 can equal 3. 

Before diving back into your week, ensure everyone is in a position to succeed.

Especially you.

Lead on,
Dave

PS - In case you missed it over the weekend, I shared my playbook for onboarding new team members. If your team isn’t clicking, consider re-onboarding them.