Last year, the New England Patriots made history by leading the biggest comeback in Super Bowl LI, defeating the Atlanta Falcons 34 to 28. This year, the Philadelphia Eagles made their own history — they beat the Patriots 41 to 33, winning their first-ever Lombardi Trophy.
The Super Bowl is the biggest event in the country. It’s especially exciting for those who work in sports. But beyond the funny commercials and exciting halftime shows you can find some excellent career guidance.
Here are some career management lessons you can learn from Super Bowl LII:
Don’t Overlook the Little Things
The Patriots and the Eagles earned their way to the big game. They’re the toughest, most strategic teams in the league but even they made some major oversights.
Both teams struggled with field goals and extra points. The Eagles’ kicker, Jake Elliott, botched an extra point field goal in the first quarter. They went on to miss two two-point conversions as well. Similarly, the Patriots’ kicker, Stephen Gostkowski, missed a 26-yard field goal attempt and an extra point later in the game.
In a game that came down to an eight-point difference, every point mattered. These misses on both sides were big — not just because of the lost opportunity, but also because of the loss of momentum.
Remember this as you navigate your career in sports. Stay focused on the big picture, but don’t let the little details go unnoticed.
Nailed the interview? Send a thank-you note, and follow up with the hiring manager. Performing well during an internship? Expand your network and build relationships with your colleagues.
No matter how small, your effort matters. Even if you simply express your gratitude when your team goes the extra mile with you on a project, that goes a long way.
Embrace Your Underdog Status
Tom Brady, arguably the best quarterback in history, lost to Nick Foles, who was the backup during the Eagles’ season. He stepped up after Carson Wentz, the Eagles’ starter during most of the season, tore his ACL in Week 14. Foles took over and led the team to their first-ever Super Bowl win.
He embraced being the underdog and proved critics wrong throughout the 2018 playoff run. For example, Minnesota was favored to beat the Eagles in the NFC Championship Game, but they lost 38 to 7.
Just like Foles, when you work in sports, you’re going to face career situations where you are the least experienced or least knowledgeable. The pressure will be high but, as Foles did, find your process, develop your skills, and stay consistent in your work ethic.
Prove yourself as a professional by blowing away others’ expectations. For example, when you feel pressured at work, identify how you work best and what time of the day you’re best able to concentrate. Then, set smaller targets and hit them.
Celebrate your small wins and take short breaks. Remember, you can’t control whether others think of you as an underdog. You can only control your work and your process.
Make Risky Moves
On a crucial fourth and goal, the Eagles ran a trick play. After Foles faked a snap count, he stepped to the right. Then, they snapped the ball to running back Corey Clement, who handed it off to tight end Trey Burton, who then threw it to Foles in the endzone for a touchdown.
This play was one of the best moments of the game, putting the Eagles up 22-12 as the second quarter was winding down. The lesson here is clear: instead of settling for something less, like a field goal, think risky and go for the touchdown.
For instance, you get an offer that requires you to relocate. If you’re feeling held back by fear of uncertainty but want to pursue the career step, take it. Obviously, don’t be reckless, but be creative and try to think outside the box. Calculated risk pays off big time when you work in sports.
If you want to change a process, instead of staying silent, develop a course of action and present it to your boss. When you feel stuck and would rather pursue your passion, consider freelancing opportunities. If you switched careers and want to go back to your first path, hit the restart button. Just like the Eagles, be tactful and strategic.
As Philadelphia fans continue to celebrate, stay focused on your professional goals. Look for how you can apply these career management lessons to your day-to-day. Earn your trophy for your work in sports and become the champion of your career.
How are you planning on applying these lessons to your sports career? Share in the comments!
