Business Lessons from the Best Sports Team in the World.

The New Zealand rugby team, known as the All Blacks are the most consistently successful sports team in history.

A winning record of almost 80% since their first test match in 1905 they've just qualified for a record fifth final at the Rugby World Cup, having won it three times previously.

And all from a nation of barely 5 million people.

Some years ago, author James Kerr was allowed privileged access behind the scenes to explore just what made the All Blacks so successful and he wrote about it in his excellent book, Legacy.

He broke down the recipe for the 'secret sauce' of building such a culture of excellence to 15 Mantras.

Each one of them has a practical application to business and if you're building your own company and want to be considered world-class, here's how you can apply them;

Mantra #1: Sweep the Sheds is about humility and the idea that no task is too small for a leader. In the context of the All Blacks, it means even the most successful players are responsible for cleaning the locker room, showing that no one is above performing necessary, often unnoticed, tasks.

In business, this mantra teaches us the value of humility and leading by example.

Mantra #2: Go for the Gap encourages seizing opportunities and taking calculated risks. It's about identifying openings and acting decisively.

In business, this mantra teaches us to be proactive, to spot market gaps, and to take bold actions when opportunities arise.

Mantra #3: Play with Purpose emphasizes the importance of having a clear, meaningful goal in everything you do. It's about understanding the "why" behind your actions.

In business, this mantra reminds us to align our efforts with a higher purpose, ensuring that every decision serves a larger mission.

Mantra #4: Pass the Ball highlights the significance of teamwork and selflessness. It's about trusting your teammates and recognizing when to delegate or share responsibilities.

In business, this mantra promotes collaboration, delegation, and the acknowledgement that you can achieve more as a team.

Mantra #5: Create a Learning Environment underscores the value of continuous improvement and growth. In this environment, individuals are encouraged to learn from their mistakes and constantly seek self-improvement.

In business, this mantra emphasizes fostering a culture of learning and development, where employees are encouraged to adapt and grow.

Mantra #6: No Dickheads - “Follow the whanau (spearhead).” is the policy of not tolerating disruptive, negative, or toxic behaviour within the team.

It's about maintaining a positive, respectful team culture. "Follow the whanau (spearhead)" suggests that leaders must spearhead this cultural change.

In business, this mantra teaches us the importance of promoting a harmonious workplace and leading by example to establish a respectful company culture.

Mantra #7: Embrace Expectations is about setting high standards for yourself and your team and embracing the pressure to perform at your best.

In business, this mantra encourages leaders to define and communicate their expectations clearly, motivating your team to rise to the challenge.

Mantra #8: Train to Win signifies the dedication to consistent, deliberate practice. The All Blacks are known for their rigorous training, which allows them to excel when it matters most.

In business, this mantra underscores the importance of training, continuously honing skills, and preparing diligently for success.

Mantra #9: Keep a Blue Head encourages maintaining composure and making rational decisions, even in high-pressure situations.

In business, it advises leaders to remain calm and collected, especially when facing challenges or crises.

Mantra #10: Know Thyself is about self-awareness. It encourages individuals to understand their strengths and weaknesses, helping them make better decisions and work effectively with others.

In business, self-awareness is crucial for leadership and collaboration.

Mantra #11: Invent Your Own Language promotes the development of a unique culture and identity within a team. It's about creating shared symbols and rituals.

In business, this mantra encourages organizations to foster their distinct culture, reinforcing their core values.

Mantra #12: Sacrifice emphasises the willingness to make personal sacrifices for the greater good of the team. It's about prioritising the team's success over individual desires.

In business, this mantra teaches us the importance of putting the organisation's goals ahead of personal interests.

Mantra #13: Ritualise to Actualise is about implementing meaningful rituals and routines to foster a strong team culture and maintain consistency.

In business, this mantra underscores the significance of creating and upholding traditions that align with the company's values and objectives.

Mantra #14: Be a Good Ancestor is a call to think about the long-term impact of your actions. It's about considering how your decisions today will affect future generations.

In business, it encourages leaders to make choices that leave a positive legacy for their organization and industry.

Mantra #15: Write Your Legacy is a reminder to be purposeful in how you want to be remembered. It encourages individuals to set goals, achieve them, and ensure that their actions create a lasting impact.

In business, this mantra motivates leaders to think about the mark they want to leave on their company and the world.

There are so many crossovers from the world of elite sport into business and seeking excellence in all that you do.

These mantras from the All Blacks provide valuable insights for leadership and team building to help you achieve your full potential in business and in life.

The Rugby World Cup Final is next Saturday, and it would be a brave person who'd bet against the All Blacks emerging victorious one again

Game on!