5 Lessons in Leadership from the Chicago Cubs

5 Lessons in Leadership from the Chicago Cubs

Winning a championship is an achievement that every athlete or coach dreams of. In 2016, the Chicago Cubs baseball team ended a 108-year drought by winning the World Series. Many factors contributed to this success, but one that deserves attention is the team’s leadership. From the owner to the manager to the players, the Cubs displayed a culture of accountability, communication, and resilience that can inspire any leader. Here are five lessons we can learn from their example:

1. Develop a Clear Vision

The Cubs’ owner, Tom Ricketts, had a vision to create a winning team that would provide joy to the city of Chicago and its fans. He was not interested in short-term gains or flashy maneuvers but in building a sustainable model that would last for years. To achieve this goal, he hired Theo Epstein, a young and talented executive, to lead the baseball operations. Epstein’s approach was to develop a deep scouting network, invest in the draft, and build a farm system that would produce championship players. He also emphasized the importance of character and teamwork, not just statistics. By having a clear vision and sticking to it, Ricketts and Epstein created a winning culture that permeated the entire organization.

2. Hire the Right People

One of Epstein’s first hires was Joe Maddon, a veteran manager with a reputation for being unconventional and creative. Maddon believed in giving his players autonomy and trust, letting them express their personalities and have fun. He also stressed the importance of communication and honesty, both internally and with the media. Maddon’s leadership style fit perfectly with the Cubs’ culture, and he became a beloved figure in the clubhouse. Another critical hire was Jason McLeod, the head of scouting and player development, who implemented Epstein’s vision of building a strong minor league system. By hiring people who shared the same values and goals, the Cubs created a cohesive team on and off the field.

3. Embrace Change and Adaptation

The 2016 Cubs team was not built overnight. It was the result of several years of hard work, planning, and adaptation. Epstein and his team had to make difficult decisions, such as trading popular players like Jeff Samardzija and Starlin Castro, to acquire young talent like Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant. They also had to be patient and persistent, as some prospects took longer to develop than expected. Moreover, Maddon had to adjust his strategies and tactics based on the strengths and weaknesses of his players and opponents. For example, he used a four-man outfield to counter the power-hitting of the Cleveland Indians in the World Series. By embracing change and adapting to the situation, the Cubs maximized their potential and overcame obstacles.

4. Build Resilience and Trust

No team can win every game or every season. The Cubs faced numerous setbacks and challenges along the way, such as injuries, slumps, and close losses. However, they never lost their confidence or their trust in each other. They had a slogan, “We Never Quit,” that epitomized their attitude. They also had a tradition of having “players-only” meetings, where they could talk openly and honestly without the presence of coaches or management. These meetings helped to build resilience and trust, as players could hold each other accountable and support each other. In the end, the Cubs’ resilience and trust paid off, as they won the World Series in a thrilling game seven.

5. Celebrate Success and Give Back

After the championship, the city of Chicago went crazy with joy and pride. The Cubs players and staff, however, did not forget their roots and their responsibilities. They participated in parades and events that brought the community together and raised money for worthy causes. They also visited the White House and met with President Obama, who praised them for their resilience and teamwork. The Cubs’ success was not just a personal achievement but a collective one that inspired others to pursue their dreams and help others. By celebrating success and giving back, the Cubs showed that leadership is not just about winning but also about making a positive impact.

Conclusion

Leadership is a complex and dynamic process that involves many factors, such as vision, hiring, adaptation, resilience, and impact. The Chicago Cubs’ championship season of 2016 provides a compelling example of how leadership can shape a team’s culture and performance. By following the five lessons described above, any leader can improve their skills and achieve their goals. Whether you are a coach, a manager, an entrepreneur, or a student, the Cubs’ story can inspire you to be your best and create a legacy that lasts.