#Emulate October 28

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I attempt to read something related to leadership everyday. It may be a book or some story I find online. I came across an article earlier last week called “30 Tips to Help You Live Long, Be Happy, and Have Financial Success” it was written by Michelle Crouch.

There was one word in this article that resonated with me. The word was EMULATE.

I have touched on this concept before. We have a tendency to take on the habits and characteristics of the people we associate with. So the choice of who to spend time with is very important.

Early in my coaching career I asked Mike Krzyzewski if I could work a week of his basketball camp at Duke University. He agreed and I learned a valuable lesson from him. The last night of the camp he purchased pizzas for all the counselors and he hung out with us. He ended the night with an opportunity for each of us to ask him a question.

My question was “What leadership advice do you have for young coaches starting out?”

He did not hesitate in his response. He said:

“Much of your time in the profession of  coaching is structured. That structure means you have little or no choice on who you interact with.  When you do have time on who to spend with, keep something in mind.  You will become who you associate with. Choose to spend your time with people who are positive and who you EMULATE. Choose people who have integrity and character traits you can improve on.

Choose wisely.”

Research proves the following if you want to fix your bad habits, make sure your inner circle includes people you want to EMULATE.

I am blessed that the people I choose to spend time with are the people I EMULATE.

I am indebted to many for letting me be part of their inner circle. Time spent with them is time spent growing.