Business Momentum

January 4th, 2010

Since it is easy to be a “Monday Morning” quarterback, I thought I would take my own crack at it.  When the Colts played the Jets a couple weekends back, I was utterly disappointed in our performance.  We handed our opponent the game!  Why?  The alleged strategy was if we play conservatively for the remainder of the regular season, we will be healthy for the post season. 

Some may say this is “sound” strategy and decision making, but on the other hand, I believe it was the most pathetic public display of leadership since McCain chose Sarah Palin for his running mate.  If I were to run my business in similar fashion I would not want to be a client of my own company.  Why would any business person, once they gathered market momentum, begin to conserve in order to “prepare” for the last quarter push.

Since I view a sports season the same as a business cycle, I fail to see the reason why anyone would purposefully cease their season’s momentum for the sake of something that is not for certain.  I believe in always playing to win as opposed to playing so as not to lose.  When you play conservatively for any reason, you are playing not to lose.

Coach Caldwell forgot another important player that has had an impeccable “start” record– the fan.   We as fans were part of the momentum too.  Just as the offense has to maintain its timing to stay on top of its game, so does the fan. Coach Caldwell thanks for playing it safe, thanks for the disruption of our momentum, and thanks for the crumpled dreams of an undefeated season.

Will I eat my words or change my opinion should we win the Super Bowl? No.  Playing to win in sports, business, life, our relationships etc, should be to win—not playing it safe.

For the record, I am not a “fair-weathered” fan.  I will support my Colts, Peyton Manning, Coach Caldwell and staff.  I will cheer them on and wish them my best as they will be the next Super Bowl Champs of the 2009 season.  Go Blue!

Paul Lushin

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