Click here to return to Blog Post Intro
Baseball’s all-time Iron Man, Cal Ripken, Jr., retired from baseball in 2001 after breaking countless records, including Lou Gehrig’s record for consecutive games played. Between 1982 and 1998, he played 2,632 consecutive games; and he stayed with the Baltimore Orioles for his entire 20-year major league career.
Now, in Get in the Game, he provided his insights on hard work and success that can be applied on and off the field, based on stories from his exhilarating career in baseball.
Despite his celebrated two-decade career in the major leagues, Ripken noted that it’s important not to get caught up in the heroism that comes with professional athletics.
Ripken’s 8 Elements of Perseverance that Make a Difference are:
1. The Right Values
Ripken describes learning the values of Honesty & Integrity, Hard Work, and Excellence from his father (Cal Ripken, Sr.), who coached both him and his brother with the Baltimore Orioles.
2. A Strong Will to Succeed
Ripken described his commitment to the job, the team, and the organization. Ripken noted that some of his best days on the field occurred when he had lower expectations. He says, “I pushed myself to get through. You just stay within yourself and you perform real well… No matter how bad I felt, I wasn’t going to be able to accomplish anything watching the game. I didn’t want to watch the game. You need to actually have the courage to go out there and give it a try.”
3. Love What You Do
Ripken notes, “If there was one thing that allowed me to break the record [for most consecutive games played], it was truly that I loved what I did.” Interestingly, that was last month’s tip.
4. Preparation
Ripken emphasized the importance of being prepared to play and playing to succeed.
5. Anticipation
Be ready for moments…big or small.
6. Trusting Relationships
Make sure you build relationships with your team members. They’re the ones who are there for you through thick and thin.
7. Life Management
Physical fitness leads to mental toughness. Our professional & personal lives are not separate—otherwise, you would have to choose between them.
8. The Courage of Your Convictions
Be stubborn in a good way. Ripken liked the theme, “All Out All the Time.”
Today, Cal Ripken, Jr. is admired not only for his relentless perseverance but also for his unparalleled integrity. He is a sought-after advisor and role model to fans from all walks of life.
Now, that is Out of This World Leadership!