Qualities of a Team Player - COMMITTED

We are continuing to learn and grow in 2014 by developing teamwork skills utilizing the lessons contained in John C. Maxwell’s book titled The 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player. This book carries the subtitle “Becoming the kind of person every team wants”. Developing a better team always begins with the individuals. To improve the team, improve the individuals on the team.

Quality #3: Committed - there are no halfhearted champions.

"Ordinary people with commitment can make an extraordinary impact on their world." - John C. Maxwell

It is not an emotion; it is a character quality that enables us to reach our goals.

"Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it." - George Halas, former owner of NFL Chicago Bears.

There are some things every team player needs to know about being committed:

1. Commitment usually is discovered in the midst of adversity.
   1. As NFL Hall of Fame coach Vince Lombardi said, "The harder you work, the harder it is to surrender."
   2. Committed people do not surrender.
2. Commitment does not depend on gifts or abilities.
   1. Commitment and talent are unconnected - unless you connect them.
3. Commitment comes as the result of choice, not conditions.
   1. When it comes right down to it, commitment is always a matter of choice.
   2. Far too many people think that conditions determine choices. More often, choices determine conditions. when you choose commitment, you give yourself a chance for success.
4. Commitment lasts when it is based on values.
   1. Anytime you make choices based on solid life values, then you are in a better position to sustain your level of commitment because you do not have to continually reevaluate its importance.
   2. It is like settling the issue before it is tested. A commitment to something you believe in is a commitment that is easier to keep.

To improve your level of commitment:

• Tie your commitments to your values.
• Take a risk.
• Evaluate your teammates' commitment.

Donald G Rosenbarger
Senior Vice President
Delta Companies Inc