Shining the Light on the Unsung Heroes

Jonathan Palk
Sep 5, 2018 · 3 min read

My brother in-law and I were having a conversation this past weekend on walk on players and those on the football team that honestly have no shot at playing on Saturdays. Why are these players willing to put in all of the hard work and training for a small chance at even playing in their 4 year college career? It seems like they could find other ways to challenge themselves and spend their time so why do they do it? I mean they pour their blood, sweat, and tears for 4 long years. At the end of the day they get very little fanfare. It reminds me of one of my favorite sports movies of all-time Rudy. It is based upon a guy many considered too small to play college football. He ended up walking on to one of the best football teams in the country. For those four years no one believed he was even on the team including his father and brother because he never dressed on Saturdays and they could not see him on the sidelines. In his final game as a senior he was finally allowed to dress and play two plays on defense and special teams. These walk-on players dream of one day suiting up even if it is just for one game. Why else would they be willing to beat themselves up day after day. This is something they can tell their grandkids one day. Others do not want to see their playing careers end in high school. While some enjoy being a part of a team. Whatever the reason is there is always a story and a purpose behind their decision to play a small role on this team. They may not get recognition from the media and fans, but their teammates definitely appreciate their hard work because they realize without their efforts the team could not succeed.

How about you? What kind of teams or groups are you a part of at work? Not everyone can have the opportunity to be in the spotlight or lead a large company. Have you ever thought of how important your role still is though? What talents and gifts do you bring to the table in order that goals are achieved? From the top to the bottom everyone has purpose and can make a difference. What if the building is not cleaned can events or daily business activities take place? What if someone was not willing to make copies or answer phones would certain people have the time to serve their clients? At the end of the day everyone plays a role in the success of their team or organization.

Some great life lessons can be learned from the hard work and humility of these walk on players. First, what would the world look like if everyone put the success of the other person ahead of their own accolades? Sometimes it pays to shine the spotlight on someone else for a change. Second, whatever role or part you play remember it is vital to the success of the whole. No person great or small can succeed on their own. Last, take time to recognize others for their efforts. Look for small ways to show appreciation because a pat on the back and a word of affirmation goes a long way.

Take time today to tell someone thank you for the work they are doing. A new revolution could begin with you. Leave a comment or send me an email at jonathan@iamallincoach.com telling me how you decided to pay it forward.

Jonathan Palk

Written by

Jonathan is a Life and Transitions Coach who partners with people so they can once again Live ALL In and Play ALL Out

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