When I say to a group, “you, too, can be a champion” most will admit their first thought being something to the effect of, “no” or “not me” or “I’m no champion.” To be a champion is to be a winner, victor, defender, protector, an advocate, or to fight for a cause. While demonstrated vigorously in the World Cup, the Olympics, or fighting for a cause there are certainly ways to bring being a champion to your career, business, or even parenting. While we think of being a champion as competing against others there is also the opportunity to compete with ourselves to become the very best we can be and reach our set goals. Vince Lombardi once said, “inches make champions.” Here are a few things we can learn to help us with our journey in being a champion.

Inches lead to knowledge and experience- Champions are hard workers in their area of passion. The many small steps they take lead to knowledge, skills, and experience. As they gain expertise they are able to make more exceptional moves that lead to greater success, reaching set goals, and being a champion. This makes a good argument for failures to be seen as successes. Moving through failures gaining incite instead of sitting in self-doubt propels you closer to the big plays, running a successful business, getting that promotion, excelling at a project, or leading your cause.

Inches lead to achieving goals- Many quit because they expect big results too fast. They miss the opportunity to succeed. Maintain focus on your ideal end result instead of the obstacles or mistakes made. Continue progressing forward. A champion looks at mistakes only long enough to learn from them, analyzes obstacles long enough to see options and choose a plan of action. Step by step progress occurs even though there may be setbacks along the course.

The inch you push through when you feel you can not go one more inch makes the difference between great and exceptional- Know that you are capable of more than you know. This is why having someone else provide support and the accountability factor is more than just helpful. Others can see your potential. You are more likely to take more action or go the extra inch (or mile) with a coach or accountability partner by your side. Nevertheless, there is much to be said about partnering with God and developing the mindset that brings out your inner strength and more than you ever imagined.

Champions are often remembered for great plays but it is the small steps that give them the training, skills, knowledge, and experience to make exceptional plays. It is the inches that lead to the goals. And when tired and feeling as if you can not go any further it is the next inch you push through that propels you from great to exceptional. You, too, can be a champion. In what area of your life do you want to be a champion? How can you break your action steps into inches, the small steps that move you to achieve goals?... Starting Now