Beyond Basketball
by Mike Krzyzewski with Jamie K. Spatola
Published by Hachette Book Group/Warner Business Books
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Reviewed by Caron Smith
Subtitled: Coach K's Keywords for Success
Coach Mike Krzyzewski of Duke University is a true believer in the power of words. However, he emphasizes that the concept is not merely using or borrowing words, but owning the words. Making them belong to you, personally.
The book takes powerful words and creates an entire chapter for that particular word, its usage and the reader's ability to own that word. At a glance, the reader can see these words and immediately their mind begins to assimilate them into their individual lives.
Following is a list of the words Krzyzewski uses:
1. Adaptability
2. Adversity
3. Balance
4. Belief
5. Care
6. Challenges
7. Collective Responsibility
8. Commitment
9. Crisis Management
10. Culture
11. Dependability
12. Empathy
13. Enthusiasm
14. Excellence
15. Failure
16. Family
17. Fundamentals
18. Giving Back
19. Guidance
20. Imagination
21. Integrity
22. Learning
23. Love
24. Motivation
25. Next Play
26. Ownership
27. Passion
28. Poise
29. Pressure
30. Pride
31. Respect
32. Selflessness
33. Standards
34. Talent
35. Trust
36. Will
37. Work
A brief definition is given of each word in a practical manner, using personal touches that makes the words come alive for the reader and gives them the pathway to incorporate that word into their lives.
Coach Krzyzewski concludes his book with a concept he calls 'The Fist.' He states, "the analogy of The Fist is used to describe how five vital words come together and help create teamwork."
Coach Krzyzewski emphasizes five words for his teams: Communication, trust, collective responsibility, care and pride. When they put their fists together, each member of the team is using this combination of words as a symbol to show their unity as a team.
Although team-oriented and based on basketball, I highly recommend this book for any person reaching for success in any walk of life. The impetus is on the power of words and combining them in a manner that creates unity, which in turn creates victory.
Armchair Interviews says: Good advice from Coach K.