DO YOUR JOB!

I can’t remember where I heard it, but when I did, I knew I wasn't going to let it go.  It was the phrase – Do Your Job.  It has become a staple in my basketball lingo and in reality it’s a truth that touches all aspects of life – Do Your Job.  This is probably because we live in a society that says “If someone else isn't doing the job, then you do it”.  However, in most cases, we fail to realize that when we do someone else’s job, then our job doesn't get done (or done as well as it should be).  So now we have someone doing a job they aren't as good at, while the job they are good at doesn't get done as well as it should.  You have essentially robbed Peter to pay Paul – but you are no further along than where you started – and more than likely took a step back!

Players are a perfect example of this.  It is inevitable that a player tries to do the job of his teammates, either because it’s not getting done, or the player thinks he can do it better than his teammates.  All the while that player is telling the coach “I had to do it”.  If you are a player then hear this – STOP!  It’s not your job to do your teammates job.  Most sports are team sports and each member of the team has to do their job in order for the team to be successful.  Yes, I know, most times, when a player doesn't do his job it leads to points for the other team.  But, players need to remember that not doing their job in order to do a teammates job is only making the team worse – not better.  This hurts the team in 2 ways – First, the team gave up points (can’t win if the other team scores more than you); and Second, but more importantly, a player took away a teaching opportunity for the coach to help a player get better when they are failing at their job.  If a coach can’t teach a player when he makes a mistake, then that player may not get better at doing his job, and if players aren't getting better at their jobs, then you are probably going to start losing more as the year goes on.

Now, let me be clear, this doesn't apply to the help principles that coaches teach in specific offensive/defensive sets.  However, if your coach tells you to play offense on a wing, then don’t go to the post because that spot isn't filled.  And, if your coach tells you to lock down a specific player on defense, then don’t go guard someone else.  If coach tells you to be the leader, then don’t give that responsibility to someone else.  Step up, take that leadership role.  Help your teammates understand how to get better at their job by watching you do well at your job.  When each player does their job, then the team begins to build forward momentum.  With forward momentum comes greater learning and skill building, which typically results in wins.

It’s important in life to remember this principle as well.  You can’t be all things to all people.  No matter how hard you try, you will not be the answer to all problems.  Focus on what you do best, continue to get better at it, teach others how to do as good a job as you (if not better!), and you will find yourself on the road to success!

Coach CJ

Director – CHSM

www.chsmhouston.com

Follow CHSM on Twitter (@chsmhouston)

Follow Coach CJ on Twitter (@CJPomeroy1)

Click Here to “Like” us on Facebook