Legacy

Friday, October 31. Victoria, BC. Mid morning.

I scurry across the high school campus. Loop around the gym, slip through the nearby cloisters. From there, slide quietly into the chapel, relieved to find a vacant seat.

I am certainly part of an eclectic crowd. University professors, college coaches, local politicians, business leaders, national level athletes, school administrators and teachers, gather. Best of all, some 150 teenagers, from a variety of schools all across the city, likewise in attendance.

There is a definite buzz about the place. Due in part, perhaps, to the recent conclusion of various Halloween parade activities. This thought reinforced by the arrival on the dais of the chaplain, resplendent in a black and orange striped tiger costume.

Quickly sorting out a number of power point slides, checking sound levels, he introduces the guest speaker.

A writer and consultant of renown. His name is James Kerr.

A fascinating, insightful, thought provoking, hour follows.

The author first bursts to prominence in 2013 with the publication of Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life.

In its simplest form, the slim, highly readable handbook examines fifteen critical lessons in leadership. At least initially, it follows the All Blacks, for well over a century the world’s most successful rugby union team. Much more significantly, it morphs over the following decade, read by millions all around the globe, from all walks of life.

Indeed, now printed in a 10^th Anniversary edition, Legacy stands as so much more than just a sports story. Indeed, it outlines how individuals and groups, those founded on or introduced to rock solid, positive values, culture and mindset, might improve and maintain high performance. Might inspire and transform others by embracing key guidelines and principles to help navigate the intricacies and uncertainties of life.

From my chair, snug up against the chapel’s back wall, I survey the congregation. Expect to see some of the usual rummaging, squirming in seats, furtive downward glances to cell phones. Yet Kerr, an engaging and accomplished speaker, easily holds the attention of his audience. The hundreds in attendance are very much in the moment.

After all, his is a message worth telling, hearing, and spreading.

Flash back to 2004. The All Blacks, the pinnacle of New Zealand sport, traditionally dominant in the global arena, of immense psychological significance to the nation, are in crisis.

A 40-26 hammering courtesy of archrival South Africa the nadir. Problems, throughout the squad, rife. Bullying, negative attitudes, general disconnection among many players, alcohol abuse, deep dysfunction, just some of the serious issues.

Clearly, repairing the team’s culture and performance requires significant transformation. Kerr, along with a new coaching team and support staff, part of this cultural and playing overhaul. The result, even allowing for a painful and controversial quarterfinal exit to France in 2007, is the most successful period in All Blacks history. Indeed, New Zealand captures Rugby World Cup titles in both 2011 and 2015, with the latter side considered by many pundits the best ever in the history of the sport.

Legacy examines the All Black strategies employed during this time of recovery and revival. Notes the critical building blocks and character traits, the crucial lessons on culture and leadership. Ironically, all, in their own way, plain and straightforward.

Certainly, the book champions a recipe for success. Many of the ideas, phrases and key words now part of numerous team building documents. For team, read family, business, company, military unit, government, school, or church.

For example, among numerous other pearls of wisdom, Legacy recommends any group seeking high achievement do the following.

Be stronger than the sum of its players. Collective success must outweigh individual ego.

Share responsibility, leadership, and decision making.

Remain calm under pressure and deal with adversity.

Embrace any fear of failure. Use setbacks as opportunities for growth.

Set high standards and not compromise. Do more than is expected as “Champions Do Extra.”

Adapt as required, not stagnate. Progress is never linear, but continuous learning and overall development remain vitally important.

Acquire a sense of real purpose and belonging. In the specific case of the All Blacks, a revised haka, a ceremonial dance from Maori culture, connects the past, present and future.

Ensure that clear purpose, integrity, honour, and trust remain invaluable cornerstones.

“Sweep The Sheds.” No task is beneath any team member.

Nurture humility. Establish a zero-tolerance policy for selfish behavior, regardless of an individual’s talent. “No Dickheads.”

“Do 100 Things 1% Better.” Foster small, consistent improvements.

Give and receive open and honest feedback.

Earn respect and recognition. Promote resilience and unity.

“Leave the jersey (and the world) in a better place.”

Back in the chapel, the absorbing presentation ends.

Kerr answers questions, waits patiently as the audience files out. Takes time to autograph multiple copies of his book. Leaves all, me included, with much to ponder. Perhaps his own personal legacy defined by helping people and teams become smarter, more aligned, and therefore happier and more fulfilled. Pure and simply, become better people.

After all, as Legacy itself intones, “better people become better All Blacks.”

I retrace my steps. A cold wind bites, sends a shiver down my spine. Seasons changing, the summer sun an increasingly distant memory.

Yet, on reaching my car, instead of going directly for the warmth of home, I head for a local bookshop.

I order three copies of Legacy. I have several friends in mind.

Confident the book will be a valuable Christmas gift, I think they too should read and consider what James Kerr has to say.