When Tom Brady was elected to the Patriots Hall of Fame, he said, “To be successful at anything, the truth is, you don’t have to be special. You just have to be what most people aren’t: consistent, determined and willing to work for it.”
This is a great quote that epitomizes Tom Brady and his career. Going back to Michigan, he was 6th on the depth chart. Most of you probably know the story. He worked his way up to starter and even had to split time with the star quarterback that was recruited. Then, he was drafted in the sixth round by the Patriots. Tom Brady is somebody that nobody pegged to be that special, but he turned out to be, in my opinion, the greatest quarterback in NFL history. And that’s saying something coming from a Steelers fan.
When I reflect on my life and career, I look back on successes and feel far from special. No one would’ve predicted the success that we’ve had at Service Express or for me here. I’m not special, but I have been consistent. I have my routines; I am determined and I’m willing to do the work.
By the way, being willing to do the work doesn’t mean you have to work 80 hours a week every week and sacrifice everything. You can have balance in your life. I’ve been blessed to have three great kids and be able to raise them, coach them and go to their events. Not every single one of them, but the majority of them. We sit in a great spot right now.
So, if you’re building your organization, surround yourself with consistent and determined people. In my opinion, to be special is to be consistent, determined, and willing to do the work; that is true talent.
