The Transformational Leader

12Engaging Hearts and Minds: Beyond Talents and Tactics

Engaging the hearts, minds, and hands of talent is the most sustainable source of competitive advantage.

—Greg Harris

WHAT SETS WINNING teams apart from those that seemingly have it all yet crumble under pressure? Why do some transcend limitations, rise above roadblocks, and succeed against significantly more talented competitors? This question has always captivated, fascinated, and compelled me. However, before I reveal what I believe to be the magic ingredient, let's address the usual suspects—those factors that, while important, don't guarantee success:

• Individual talent.
• Brilliant strategy.
• Clear communication.
• Hard work.
• Skill diversity.
• Regular training.
• Decades of experience.
• Effective tools and platforms.
• Strong management.
• Unlimited resources.

You may think, “Aren't these the hallmarks of excellence?” While they're pivotal components of a winning team and crucial for consistent success, each is merely a piece of the puzzle, not the complete picture.

Consider this: if sheer talent were the key, teams with incredibly talented individuals would never fail. Yet history is full of extraordinary talents who fail to leave their mark. While they certainly left a mark, a story that comes to mind is that of the 1992 U.S. Olympic basketball team—the illustrious “Dream Team.” With basketball legends like Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Scottie Pippen, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson, the team was unbeatable—on paper. Yet, ...