Leaders Are Made During the Dash:
Big wins and tough losses are defining moments, but what really sets leaders apart is how they handle the “dash”—the time between events. The dash is where growth happens, where momentum shifts, and where you set the tone for the future. Whether you’re coming off a stinging defeat or riding the high of a historic win, here’s how you can change momentum, get back to work, and support your teammates like the leader you’re meant to be.
1. Reflect, Don’t Dwell
After a tough loss or a major win, emotions run high. The first step as a leader is to pause and reflect.
After a Loss: Acknowledge the disappointment, but don’t let it consume you. Focus on lessons learned. What went wrong? What can be improved? Treat the loss as a stepping stone, not a dead end.
After a Win: Celebrate the victory, but don’t let it lead to complacency. Ask yourself: What worked? How can we replicate that success? Growth doesn’t stop after a win—it accelerates.
Reflection shows your team that you’re focused on progress, not perfection.
2. Set the Tone for What’s Next
Momentum is built by what happens immediately after the event.
Lead by Example: Get back to the grind—whether that’s showing up early to practice, hitting the books, or staying prepared. Your energy sets the tone for the team.
Reframe the Narrative: A tough loss doesn’t define the season, and a historic win isn’t the end-all. It’s about the bigger picture. Keep the focus on long-term goals.
Communicate the Vision: Share what’s next with your team. Whether it’s a new strategy or simply the next practice, clarity breeds confidence.
3. Uplift and Support Your Teammates
Great leaders make everyone around them better. Here’s how:
Check In: After a loss, teammates may feel discouraged. After a win, some might feel left out. A quick “How are you feeling?” goes a long way in building trust and camaraderie.
Encourage Growth: Highlight individual and team strengths. Be the voice that reminds your team of their potential, even when they’re doubting themselves.
Lead with Positivity: Positivity doesn’t mean ignoring challenges. It means believing in the ability to overcome them. Encourage effort, celebrate progress, and stay solution-oriented.
4. Hone Your Leadership Skills During the Dash
The time between events is where real leadership is forged. Use this time wisely:
Sharpen Your Skills: Read books, listen to podcasts, or learn from mentors. Leadership is a skill that can always be improved.
Build Team Culture: Organize team activities, set up group check-ins, or create shared goals. A connected team is a resilient team.
Practice Resilience: Adversity is part of the journey. The more you practice bouncing back, the stronger you and your team become.
5. Embrace the Big Moments with Confidence
When the next big event comes, your preparation during the dash will shine through:
Stay Calm: Your team will look to you for stability, especially in high-pressure situations.
Trust the Process: You’ve put in the work. Now it’s time to execute.
Lead with Heart: Show your team that you care—about the game, the goal, and them as individuals.
Final Thoughts
Leadership isn’t just about what happens under the spotlight; it’s about the work you put in when no one is watching. Leaders are made during the dash, and their skills are polished through consistent effort, reflection, and a commitment to uplifting those around them. So, whether you’re picking your team up after a loss or keeping them grounded after a win, remember: the dash is where true greatness is built.
Let’s lead, grow, and make the dash count.
