The Super Bowl has become a major event in American culture. Over the years, many strategies have evolved to win the game. Onside kicks at the beginning of the second half, hail Marys and quarterback sneaks have all been used.
Another winning strategy was started by Donny Anderson of the Green Bay Packers, the first punter to focus on hang time instead of distance. Prior to Anderson, getting the most amount of distance was the criteria for a successful punt.
He and his coaches shifted the formula. Anderson started kicking punts higher in the air to allow his teammates time to get down the field. Thus, long punt returns could be prevented. It was a revolutionary concept and changed the game.
He played a pivotal role in helping the Packers win the first Super Bowl. When asked by reporters about the short punt distance, his legendary coach, Vince Lombardi, said, “We scored twice. Who cares how far it went?”
Focusing on outcomes instead of activity is key to a winning formula. Many of us are busy, yet we aren’t effective. We focus on activities instead of priorities.
Asking the right questions can be helpful.
- Are you focusing on the desired result (points scored) or activity (distance punted)?
- What are your priorities vs. your activities?
- Are you progressing on your priorities or just staying busy?
When we focus on the desired outcome, we become more effective and strategic in our own game.