“There are lots of times we have to pinch ourselves and ask, Is this really happening?” – Jeremy Lin
The headline from Sports Illustrated writer Pablo S. Torre sums up one of the most remarkable sports storylines in recent memory, “’From Couch to Clutch’, After being cut twice, Jeremy Lin emerged from the end of the Knicks’ bench to inspire victories, debunk stereotypes and dazzle the NBA-while living on his brother’s sofa.”
The story of NBA star Jeremy Lin is nothing short of inspiring. Just five days removed from being cut from yet another NBA team, Lin emerged from obscurity to become a multi-million dollar marketing sensation as his exploits on the court have given new life to weary New York fans. The first Harvard alum in 58-years, Lin has exploded on the NBA scene in ways others only dream of doing.
“Occasionally, a young, twice-cast off NBA player will catch on with a team,” writes Torre, “maybe carve out a place in the rotation, even use that foothold to slowly build a career. Not Lin. When finally given a spot in the starting lineup, after playing all of 375 career minutes, he instantly put up numbers worthy of an All-Star.”
As Lin continues to dazzle fans in the stadium and opponents on the court, it will be with pride in his accomplishments that many will continue to follow his historic journey. “Think of the singular demographic alloy at play,” continues Torre, “Lin, who’s worked endlessly on his strength and his jump shot in the past year, is a normal-sized, Christian, first-generation Asian-American. He’s excelled academically, faced racism on the court, been cut twice and sent to the D-league four times. Now he’s an NBA sensation amid the cultural diversity of hoops-starved New York, Opponents aside, who wouldn’t be a fan?”
Lin’s success serves to remind us of important leadership characteristics that when developed and applied will be of lasting value. Here are four leadership characteristics that have served him well and will do the same for you.
Prepare yourself well. Despite his average- sized frame for a basketball player and despite stereo-types that caused many scouts to look the other way, Lin never gave up. Considered by many to be an “overnight sensation” we know that there is no such thing. It was years of hard work and dedication that caused him to eventually be on the end of the Knicks’ bench. When his number was called, he was ready to play.
In the same way, as you prepare yourself, work hard, and stay true to your calling, your time to shine will come. And like Lin, when your number is called you will step into the role that you were destined for all along.
Play to your strengths. Lin patiently waited his turn. He took to the court with a leadership presence of a seasoned veteran. Torre points out that his 109 total points surpassed Allen Iverson’s 101 for the most by any player in the first four starts since the 1976 NBA-ABA merger. Lin did not wait to make an impact, he delivered immediately.
The secret to your star power is to play to your strengths. It’s found in discovering and doing that “one thing” that you were born to do. Like Lin, when you play to your strengths you lift everyone around you to a new level.
Share the glory. Noted by many as one of his more endearing qualities, Lin consistently deflects personal attention and acknowledges that whatever contribution he made was because of his teammates. His ability to keep it all in perspective is an uncommon mark of maturity at his young age. His ability to willingly share the spotlight is just another reason to admire him.
Recognition of your talent is one thing; your ability to point to others and give credit for your success is good leadership. Your ability to acknowledge, articulate, and appreciate others is setting the right example. Never forget those who help make you shine.
Enjoy the moment. No one knows how long Lin’s notoriety will last and what his impact will be long term. If what we have seen thus far is any indication it will be a pleasure to watch him for many years to come. Of his new found fame Lin says, “There are lots of times we have to pinch ourselves and ask, Is this really happening?” Yes, Jeremy it is, and we celebrate with you.
Your life in leadership is a journey. It’s up to you to enjoy each moment.
© 2012 Doug Dickerson
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