While I am not a fan of theirs, I have to give much respect to the New England Patriots and their superstar QB, Tom Brady, for winning Super Bowl LIII. I did not want them to win, but cannot deny their consistent greatness.
In a conversation with a colleague, Minister Albert Johnson, he pointed out a couple of “teachable moments” that I had not even considered. I listed those below and added a few others:
1. Some people do not care for Tom Brady simply because he keeps winning.
In life, there will be those who dislike (or even hate) you because of the success you have obtained. Never apologize for being a winner; especially when you know that your victory has come from God.
2. The game was boring offensively, but Tom Brady reminded us that winners always find a way to win.
Not only do winners find a way to win, they also know how to elevate the play and expectations of those around them. It is not always pretty, but the victory is not given for style.
God NEVER said all things work together to LOOK good for those who love Him and are the called according to His purpose. He had Paul write that they work together for our good… even if it does not always feel or look good
3. Even though Tom Brady and his head coach had their differences during the regular season, neither man allowed in-season setbacks and challenges to make them forget the ultimate goal.
Never take your eyes off the prize just because you have a personality conflict with other people on your team – even if they have just as much influence as you. The goal does not change just because someone upsets you or you do not agree with them.
Besides, if you always agree with what someone says or does, one of you is not being honest.
4. Consistent winners ALWAYS operate with a target on their back.
The fact that someone is aiming at your back means you are ahead of them. Do not stop, turnaround or quit just to make your haters happy. As a matter of fact, you actually give them another reason to aim high, because everyone wants to say they took down the GOAT.
5. The press Tom Brady receives is sometimes negative, but he has WON SIX Super Bowl rings and no one can take those away.
The only way people will stop talking about you is when you become irrelevant. Stay focused on your God-given purpose and let them keep talking.
6. Those who have the most to say about Tom Brady are not even in the games with him, let alone able to play it on his level.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion. Do not focus on their opinion or become upset about it…. just keep playing your game!
Your Turn: What would you add to the list above? How can you apply any of the “teachable moments” to your daily life?
I really enjoyed this powerful lesson on being a consistent winner! You are absolutely correct about Tom Brady and his example that has proven to serve as a very valuable life lesson. God bless you!
Thank you for your comment. How can you apply these principles to your life?