Life Lessons from the Playing Field

Program Highlights

• Ten lessons managers can learn from youth sports.
• The power of "effort goals" to maintain motivation.
• How to overcome the limitations of inflexible mental models.

Jim Thompson describes youth sports as an illustration of the teamwork and high achievement that every organization wants to see in its employees. He shares ten valuable leadership lessons (such as seeing the big picture, creating a culture of fair play, and giving permission to make mistakes) gleaned from his experience as a coach and crusader for young athletes. Jim demonstrates the right way—and the wrong way—to motivate individuals to do their very best.

Jim Thompson has authored three books, including "Shooting in the Dark: Tales of Coaching and Leadership." For more than 10 years, Jim directed the Public and Global Management programs at the Stanford Graduate School of Business.