Leading By Knowing What Time It Is
I am continuing to be inspired by the great book, Pete Rose: An American Dilemma, by Kostya Kennedy. I already wrote inspired by Pete Rose in Leading By Being A Beacon & Support Beam. Yesterday, while reading, I was intrigued by Kennedy telling that one of Rose’s team members said that Rose always knew what time it was in each of his teammates’ lives. In other words, he had a deep understanding and awareness of where each team member is personally and professionally. That is a pretty amazing skill for a leader to possess, don’t you think? It means, as leaders, we recognize the different stages, challenges, priorities, and circumstances that each individual is experiencing.
This kind of awareness allows us to offer tailored support, show empathy, and foster stronger relationships. It helps in creating an environment where team members feel seen, valued, and understood, which can boost morale and promote more effective collaboration.
Pete Rose, renowned for his leadership and keen understanding of his team, was known to pay close attention not just to their skills on the field but also to their personal lives and circumstances. He believed that knowing what time it was in each player’s life—whether they were facing personal challenges, celebrating milestones, or dealing with pressure—allowed him to connect with them more deeply. By demonstrating genuine empathy and awareness of their individual situations, Pete fostered a sense of trust and loyalty within his team. This approach helped him motivate players more effectively, as they felt seen and valued beyond just their athletic performance. Such mindful leadership created a supportive environment that contributed to both team cohesion and individual growth.
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