As I get older, there are many things I need to unlearn. One shift I’ve been trying to make more is relying less on my personal capabilities and instead creating a platform for others to shine.
When you’re young, your intelligence and skills matter most. If you’re smart and capable, opportunities will find you – people will want to work with you, hire you, or follow your lead.
But as you get older, it isn’t just about your own abilities anymore. It’s about whether you can set the right vision and build a “big tent” that attracts smart young people. You need the transition from a “me” mindset (my idea, my strategy, my plans) to a “we” mindset (our vision, our team, our philosophy).
I think this transition can be harder for former superstars, which is why many great players don’t necessarily make great coaches. Now, I wasn’t a superstar by any means, but I did have a few fairly good tools in my toolbox – I was a fairly effective knowledge worker. Just like any other kind of unlearning, the transition to a “we” mindset isn’t always easy, but I realize it’s the mindset I have to embrace more and more as I get older.