Football Leadership Framework

A leadership framework focused on empowering team members while maintaining clear objectives and boundaries.

Core Leadership Philosophy

• Don't treat people as "your people" - avoid possessive language
• Focus on enabling leaders rather than controlling them
• Goal is to help team members achieve their personal goals while achieving company goals

The Football Framework

• Give them the football (resources/responsibility)
• Show them the end zone (clear objectives)
• Set the boundaries (guidelines/constraints)
• Let them choose their path to score (autonomy in execution)

Key Leadership Practices

• Avoid "seagull management"
  • Don't swoop in, make noise, leave mess, and fly away
  • Focus on solutions rather than complaints
• Ask "Who's in charge?" to reinforce ownership
• Act as coach/advisor rather than dictator
• Find balance between:
  • Complete hands-off (leads to resentment)
  • Micromanagement (demotivates people)

Effective Coaching Approach

• Set clear goals and boundaries
• Ask "How can I be most helpful?"
• Focus on results rather than methods
• Help team members achieve their personal goals
• Avoid demotivating through excessive control
• Step in as advisor when needed, but maintain their autonomy

Success Metrics

• Focus on end results within set boundaries
• Don't dictate how the game is played
• Trust team members to find their path
• Measure success by whether goals are achieved, not how they're achieved