The Sideline Seat

1 Mindset Shift. 1 Sideline Story. 3 Actionable Takeaways.

Sent every Tuesday to help you build a better team.

The Mindset Shift:

Actions aren't always an indication of ability, it is also an indication of current capacity. When someone acts out of character, it may not be about the reality, it may be that they have simply run out of capacity.

Sideline Story: The Meltdown

During a busy week last week, I walked by about the time to catch Norwegian skier Atle Lie McGrath line up at the gates to ski what most thought would be his gold metal alpine run. Then, seconds into the race, uncharacteristically, he straddled a gate. A guaranteed Did Not Finish. Then I watched as McGrath threw his poles, ski over to the out of bounds, duck the rope, unclip his skis, and hike into the woods to flop face-down in the snow. It looked like a full fledged toddler tantrum.

As the announcers narrated the scene, I learned that McGrath’s grandfather had passed away the day of the Opening Ceremony. My perception shifted, the picture came clear, He wasn't throwing a tantrum about a lost metal, he was finally letting go. Publicly processing his own grief he held while carrying both his and his country's expectations. That disappointment of the DNF wasn't entitlement, or ego, it was simply a human who had reached the end of his capacity.

Thank goodness the sound was on, and we live in an age where I can do a quick search for the details. It kept me from quick judgement, and brought feelings of empathy instead of disgust.

3 Actionable Takeaways:

1. Separate Behavior from Character.

Treat an uncharacteristic outburst as a symptom rather than a permanent flaw.

2. Address the Root Cause, Not the Reaction.

When you observe sudden drop in performance, or uncharacteristic outburst, ask questions before you discipline.

3. Create a Safe Place for Messy Reality.

Allow your team to vent the frustration of a failures, or circumstances without the fear that their emotions will be held against them.