Leading like Ted Lasso

Jan 2

Recently we re-watched some Ted Lasso. This series is as inspiring as any book I've read or leadership courses I've taken. The characters are as normal, flawed, and complicated as all of us, with relatable lessons that can be applied to our mortal lives. In a leadership role, we often feel like we have to be better than those we lead; Ted Lasso shows us that real leaders are just ordinary people who can inspire others to be the best they can be regardless of their flaws & weaknesses.

By connecting with people on a personal level, Ted Lasso creates an environment of trust and psychological safety that allows the players to be vulnerable, take risks (and potentially fail) and express their ideas. He models transformative leadership qualities of authenticity, positivity, empathy, and inclusiveness we can learn from to build trust in our teams and workplace relationships.

Positive Leadership: Radiant Force for Team Success

"Isn't the idea of 'never give up' one of them things we always talk about in sports? And shouldn't that apply to people too?" – Ted Lasso

Positive Leadership is the radiant force that propels teams toward success. It goes beyond mere optimism; it involves cultivating a mindset that sees challenges as opportunities, setbacks as stepping stones, and individuals as the heart of an organization. A positive leader instills hope, motivation, and resilience within the team, fostering an environment where enthusiasm flourishes even in adversity.

Ted Lasso's coaching philosophy is a testament to Positive Leadership in its purest form. He transforms the outlook of AFC Richmond, a struggling soccer team, with unwavering optimism. Despite challenges and skepticism from others, Ted's positive attitude becomes contagious, setting the tone for a culture that embraces hope and resilience.

My journey has also included many challenges and setbacks, and it would be easy to be discouraged. However, I have learned that each adversity has become pivotal in my journey and has made me who I am today. My personal motto is "No looking back."

Authentic Leadership: Foundation of Trust and Credibility

"Guys have underestimated me my entire life. And for years, I never understood why. It used to really bother me. But then one day, I was driving my little boy to school, and I saw this quote by Walt Whitman, and it was painted on the wall there. It said, 'Be curious, not judgmental.' I like that." – Ted Lasso

Authentic Leadership is the foundation that solidifies trust and credibility within an organization. It involves being true to oneself, transparent in actions, and consistent in values. Authentic leaders don't wear masks; they embrace vulnerability and admit when they don't have all the answers.

Authenticity is Ted Lasso's hallmark. He openly admits his lack of soccer knowledge and acknowledges his vulnerabilities. Ted's authenticity humanizes him, making him relatable to players and fans. He leads by example, showcasing that authentic Leadership embraces imperfections.

For much of my career, I have been in Ted Lasso's situation, leading teams of professionals and subject matter experts who know more than I did. Early on, I found as a leader that it was essential not to pretend, I was an expert. By being authentic, I could let them know that my job was to make them successful, and if they could help me understand what was most vital for them to succeed, I could help remove roadblocks and provide guidance. Recently, I was in this familiar situation, and we have been able to make significant changes in workplace performance and culture. The absolute best validation I could receive was from a team member reporting to me who said, "Thanks for just being you."

Empathy: The Compass Guiding Human Connections

"I think that if you care about someone and you got a little love in your heart, there ain't nothing you can't get through together." – Ted Lasso

Empathy is the compass that guides leaders through the intricate terrain of human connections. It involves not just understanding but truly feeling and acknowledging the emotions, concerns, and perspectives of others. An empathetic leader creates a culture of trust where team members feel seen, heard, and valued.

His profound empathy defines Ted Lasso's Leadership. He goes beyond understanding the sport; he connects with each team member personally. Ted recognizes his players' unique challenges and aspirations, creating a culture of trust and support.

In my career, I have found that you "get what you give," if you give the time to understand and be empathetic to a co-worker, they will provide you with a lot of latitude when you need support. Having been a leader in many start-ups and critical project situations, the times of most intensity in the workplace can also coincide with personal life issues. It would be so easy to say, "Leave your problems at home;" however, this almost guarantees their work will be affected. There are usually not easy solutions for complex problems, but sometimes the most impactful thing you can do for that person is take the time to listen and understand.

Inclusiveness: Catalyst for Creativity and Innovation

"For me, success is not about the wins and losses. It's about helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves on and off the field." – Ted Lasso

Inclusiveness is the catalyst that propels organizations into realms of creativity, collaboration, and innovation. It transcends diversity; it's about creating an environment where every individual's unique strengths and perspectives are recognized and actively sought and valued.

Inclusiveness is a fundamental principle of Ted Lasso's coaching style. He values every team member, regardless of their background or skill level. Ted actively seeks input from unexpected sources, creating an environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed and celebrated.

Some of the best leadership experiences in my career have been working with diverse and inclusive teams and being surprised by the level of results that can be achieved. I have had the experience of working with some amazing young people and immigrants who are grateful that I have allowed them to showcase their abilities. They have mentored me and increased my technology and digital marketing capacity, making me a better leader.