Consistency

(Photograph courtesy of Steve Karampalas)

"A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines." - Ralph Waldo Emerson, Self-reliance

Differentiate a foolish consistency from an ethereal one.

Consistency means making the right play the right way time and time again. Most situations don't require the "great play," simply the 'consistent play.' Legendary basketball coach Don Meyer would say, "what is unacceptable in defeat is unacceptable in victory." 

Historically, sixty to seventy percent of games yield success by being 'more skilled' than your opponent. But superior purpose defines the other third - total focus, playing through fatigue, overcoming nicks, hitting with intent, the full-out dive instead of uncommitted reaches. Superior purpose determines the "long game."  

Consistency also applies to intangibles - communication, enthusiasm, and on-court leadership. Player leadership informs success. An old proverb says "a leader with no followers is only taking a walk." On court leaders have energy, energize teammates, and facilitate their teammates' engagement. Sometimes girls and younger players hesitate to lead, not wanting to be thought "bossy" or "witchy" (or worse). Exceptional teams share leadership through the ranks. 

Here are excerpts from the brilliant article above: 

"On this team, the leadership model is open to everybody. For instance, even if you’re a freshman, you have the ability to make those around you better and more productive: Don’t be a distraction, be on time, know your stuff, play hard and well when you’re called on. Even if you’re not the star player, you’re contributing to that leadership model."

"Finally they’ll just say, “You’re going to ask me what’s best for the team, aren’t you?” And I say, “Of course.” That’s the first lens that comes down on every decision we make."

Consistency is about attitude, choices, effort, preparation, and will. Results don't define you, how you go about your business defines you.