Ascending the Levels of Competition: Lessons from Robert Saleh for Entrepreneurs

In every episode of "Hard Knocks," we get a glimpse into the world of the New York Jets under the leadership of Robert Saleh, the head coach who took the reins in 2021. As a 52-year-old entrepreneur, I can appreciate the wisdom that Saleh imparts to his team, because it resonates with the principles that have guided me in my own business endeavors.

In the third episode of the series, Saleh delved into what he calls the four levels of a competitor. These levels not only apply to the football field but also hold valuable lessons for us in the world of entrepreneurship and life in general.

The first level Saleh talks about is the "Survivor." He describes this individual as someone who merely does enough to get by. They are the bare minimum players, the ones who are content with mediocrity. In business, we encounter these individuals as well—those who are just clocking in and out without a real drive to excel. As entrepreneurs, we know that survival is not enough; we strive for excellence.

Moving up the ladder, Saleh introduces us to the "Contender." These individuals are primarily motivated by external factors such as playing time, money, or fame. They perform well when there's something tangible at stake, but their drive tends to wane when those external rewards are not in sight. In entrepreneurship, we see contenders who chase short-term gains but may not have the long-term vision or commitment required for sustained success.

The third level of competition is where the real transformation happens—the "Competitor." Saleh describes this individual as someone who is internally motivated to be the best, regardless of the situation. This is the level where true entrepreneurs thrive. It's about having that burning desire to constantly improve, to innovate, and to push one's boundaries. In business, competitors are the ones who weather the storms and keep pushing forward, driven by an inner fire that cannot be extinguished.

Finally, Saleh introduces us to the pinnacle of competition—the "Commander." This person possesses all the traits of a competitor, but with a crucial difference: they bring people along with them. Commanders are leaders who inspire, motivate, and elevate those around them. In the world of entrepreneurship, commanders are the visionaries and mentors who not only succeed themselves but also empower others to reach their full potential.

As a 52-year-old entrepreneur, I find Saleh's insights incredibly relatable. In the world of business, just like in football, we encounter individuals at all these levels of competition. The key is to recognize where we stand and strive to ascend to higher levels of excellence and leadership.

Robert Saleh's philosophy on competition serves as a reminder that success in any field requires more than just going through the motions. It demands passion, dedication, and the ability to inspire and lead others. So, whether you're on the field or in the boardroom, aim to be a commander—an entrepreneur who not only excels personally but also lifts those around you to greater heights. That's the path to lasting success and fulfillment.