"Don't Take Anything Personally"

Don't Take Anything Personally pic.twitter.com/apWhzZelbg

— InspiroQuest (@InspiroQuest) October 19, 2025

"Don't take anything personally" is one of "The Four Agreements," from the book of the same name. It's supposed to be Tom Brady's favorite book. 

Coach Ellis Lane, later the Melrose AD, and a member of the New England Basketball Hall of Fame, shared immutable principles with us over fifty years ago:

1. "Sacrifice." Your decisions impact the team. 

2. "Whatever I tell one of you goes for everyone." Coaching is not only "player-specific." Listen and be coachable.

3. "If I stop yelling at you, then it means I've given up because I don't believe I can help you." Don't get the silent treatment.

4. "I'm pleased but I'm not satisfied." Good coaches never are. 

Lagniappe. Coaching is personal. Players have no idea what coaches do on their behalf, letters, phone calls, other help. It's not about us.