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Inspiration From Anfield And Amsterdam

"Never say never because limits, like fears, are often just illusions." - Michael Jordan It’s a few days old now, but the buzz from an incredible week of dramatic turnarounds in top level soccer is still felt.

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“Never say never because limits, like fears,

are often just illusions.”

Michael Jordan

It’s a few days old now, but the buzz from an incredible week of dramatic turnarounds in top-level soccer is still felt.

In the Champions League, Liverpool managed to complete an incredible victory against the superb Barcelona, who had the best player in the world on their team, Lionel Messi.

The match in Liverpool’s stadium, Anfield, had to be seen to be believed.

I’m not a Liverpool fan (the opposite in fact, I’m a fan of their mortal enemy… Man Utd) but I couldn’t but want them to win. And my wife, Judy, who has no interest in soccer, was also glued to the tv as the impossible unfolded in front of us.

You could just feel this incredible intensity of focus and will-power from Liverpool – they were determined as a unit to ‘not go gently into that good night.’

Then, the following night, in the second semi-final, Tottenham Hotspur (Spurs) scored 3 goals in 35 minutes to avert what seemed like certain exit against the much fancied Ajax, and win on the away goal rule

It’s nights like these that explain the magic of sport.

  • Taking on the impossible.
  • Giving your best.
  • Giving 100% as an individual, and working together as a team.
  • Throwing your body, heart and soul into the arena to give it your all.

These two games, inspired anyone watching to believe that with the right work, application and mindset, anything really is possible.

As my 10 year old son Sam said to me the next day ‘Daddy, that means there’s always a chance to come back.’

What a message to give a child, let alone an adult.

As you’re reading this, there could be an area of your life where you feel like you’re 4-0 down on aggregate (like Liverpool).

Or 3-0 down at halftime (like Spurs).

Or maybe there’s someone around you who is struggling.

This mail could be a reminder or trigger for you and/or them to come at things anew.

Because it’s always possible to turn things around.

Best,

Shane

ps – Here’s a radio interview I did over the weekend with The Business show on RTE Radio 1 where I discuss a leader’s role in looking after themselves like a professional athlete – and taking the lessons into helping employees be better in their lives.