It Really Starts at the (Very) Top....and Lincoln

Yup, couldn't help it, we're back in Spurs territory here.  Probably really the lastest this season...then again, wouldn't bet on it.  

We've discussed much about them - five championships over a 17-year span, core members who've stayed on out of loyalty, players not leaving for higher pay, etc - and I've pointed out their selfless philosophy and organizational discipline.  Yada, yada, yada stuff, right?  

A bit of research, lately, pointed out the fact, though, that it actually, really starts at the very top - the owner. 

Let me share these few lines about him - obviously a PR job, but, I think you'll get the idea:

Peter Holt believes in a values-based management philosophy, in which the community gains benefits from association with a company that is committed to proper business ethics. A company's responsibility leads to the company supporting community projects, leading to mutual benefit for the community and company. These values were one of the primary factors in Holt's 1993 decision to invest in the Spurs. His desire was to keep the team in San Antonio to help the community and vice-versa. 

So, essentially, the Spurs are who they are because of a top-down philosophy - that a culture has been built and that success, you could say, comes naturally. 

Series on Lincoln 

Speaking of top-down, we'll be starting a series on Abraham Lincoln.  I thought of giving the heavy tome known as the "The Board Book" a rest for a while and checked out another one Dad passed on and it's about the leadership style of America's 16th President.  

A curious case he - lost eight elections, twice failed at business and only had a few years of political experience before becoming president during the gravest time of that country's history - its civil war!

What he had done during that period - keeping the nation intact - is nothing short of miraculous and has put him down as one of the greatest leaders of all time.  

Yes, you are not at war, I agree, but I think you're faced with certain challenges and maybe some of his principles may come in handy.  The book is "Lincoln on Leadership" and it's by Donald Phillips and he breaks down what he thinks are the principles of honest Abe:

I. Get Out of the Office and Circulate Among the Troops:

- Explain yourself in writing and offer advice on how to solve problems.

- Seek casual contact with your subordinates.  It is as meaningful as a formal gathering, if not more so.      

- Be the very embodiment of good temper and affability.  

- Remember, everyone likes a compliment.  

II.  Build Strong Alliances

- Invest time and money in better understanding the ins and outs of human nature.  

- Showing your compassionate and caring nature nature will aid you in forging successful relationships. 

Written August 24, 2014