Phil Jackson: Widely considered one of the greatest head coaches in NBA history.
Jackson’s nickname, “The Zen Master”
Why?
Jackson’s coaching is grounded in:
- Zen meditation
- Christian principles
- Human psychology
- Native American wisdom
Highlights from his 20 seasons include:
- 11 NBA Championships
- Highest regular season winning percentage
- Coached basketball legends Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquille O’Neal
- Helped focus players like Dennis Rodman to have them play their best
Jackson taught players hard basketball skills but also shared how to meditate, and regularly encouraged players to read a wide range of books.
While Jackson’s coaching is focused largely on basketball, his principles can easily apply to business.
Here are 8 Lessons from this NBA legend:
1/ Be in the moment:
“Winning is ephemeral”. Winning is sweet but doesn’t make life easier. True joy comes from being present, not just when things are favorable.
2/ Mindfulness is key:
The awareness of thoughts diminishes their power over you.
3/ We > Me:
Group imperative takes precedence over individual glory. A team’s success comes from the power of oneness, not the power of one man — even Micheal Jordan.
4/ Empower all teammates:
Let everyone touch the ball, no one is a spectator. By working all twelve teammates into the rotation, you keep everyone focused on the same goal.
5/ Love is a conquering force:
People are motivated by love. What drives most players is not the money or the adulation, but their love of the game.
6/ Blend the masculine and feminine:
Balance masculine and feminine energies and heal the split between mind and heart. “Experience each moment with a clear mind and open heart. When you do that, the game - and life - will take care of itself.
7/ Practice Acceptance:
Rage and resistance disable intentional, beneficial action.
Accept whatever you’ve been dealt - no matter how unwelcome. The way to proceed eventually becomes clear.
8/ Strive for Unified Consciousness:
A team can win big without becoming small in the process by blending individual talent with heightened group consciousness.
Which of these principles is your favorite?
What do you want to apply to your world?
Hi, I’m Tiffany May Yan Chan, and I work with extraordinary leaders on the spiritual path. When I’m not writing, I teach visionaries how to make wise decisions and take courageous action. If you’re interested, apply to work 1:1 and we’ll jump on a call and see if we’re a good fit.