Kickball reveals secrets to success

Kickball isn’t just for kids anymore. The popular childhood game is extremely popular here in Rochester for adults of all ages and skill levels. I’m playing on a team with some of my coworkers and we’re all having a blast with that familiar red rubber ball. While it’s just a game, you don’t have to look hard to find some important lessons for life and your career.

Be a team player

We all need others to help us reach our full potential. Chances are you can easily name at least one person who helped you get where you are today or one person whose help you’ll need to get where you want to go. In kickball, it doesn’t matter if you’re the best kicker, pitcher or fielder; you need a good team around you. And you need to work together.

Base running is a great example. You aren’t going to score if runners are stranded. If you can get on base, you need your teammates to bring you home. Keep in mind, you might also be called upon to sacrifice when you’re up so your teammates can score.

Help others succeed

Success goes both ways: you need to help those who help you. Take coaching the bases, for example. It’s critical to be an extra set of eyes for baserunners and let them know when they should keep going or stop. Even something as simple as reminding them how many outs there are can make a big difference.

This idea is true at work, at home and in our communities. Taking the time to help others is a win-win for everyone. Make an effort to mentor others and volunteer your time. The results might surprise you.

Enjoy what you do

Kickball has been a great way for me to meet new people and get to know my coworkers better. It has brought out the competitive spirit in all of us. No matter how the game goes, we’ve always managed to have fun on and off the field. In fact, I think it’s safe to say we don’t want the games to be over — we’re having too much fun.

Winning is nice, but it isn’t everything. Do the things you enjoy and try to enjoy the things you do. You’ll find that success isn’t just a destination, it can be found in everything that happens along the way.

So, are you ready to lace up your cleats, hike up your tube socks and have some fun?