Water's Edge Coaching

Growing up I idolized Ernie Banks.  By the time I was old enough to start caring about whether the Chicago Cubs won that day (an affliction I still suffer from) Ernie had moved from playing shortstop to playing first base.  But he was still Ernie!  Still Mr. Cub!  He brought a boyish enthusiasm to the game, best captured in his quote “Let’s play two.” Reflecting a message any boy could understand, on a day as beautiful as today, let’s play two games of baseball.  I don’t recall ever seeing Ernie Banks not smiling, except maybe when he was about to put a ball out on Waveland Avenue.  I’m in my 40s now, still obsessed with the Cubs, and I still idolize Ernie Banks.  I keep an Ernie Banks autographed baseball on my desk in my office.  It reminds me of the enthusiasm, hope and sheer joy that Ernie brought to the ballpark every day, and through his actions, lifting the spirits of legions of adoring Cub fans.  That autographed baseball reminds me of my sincere desire that we all could feel the same way about our work.  That as leaders we create that environment for our teams that energizes them.  As employees we must be vigilant about giving our all to the team.  As job hunters we should seek out work that engages our head, hands and heart.  Thank you Ernie Banks!  Let’s play two!