From 2023 playoff game:
As I watched the 49ers win their playoff game yesterday, I started thinking a lot about fear. Does fear motivate you to act or does it paralyze you? Drive you to take risks or take an easier path? Niners quarterback Brock Purdy went from 3rd string QB to starter, helping his team become one of the hottest teams in football going into yesterday’s game. In his first NFL game, he was thrown in when QB Jimmy G was injured.
Jimmy was another profile in courage and humility, but back to Mr. Purdy, AKA Mr. Irrelevant on the web. His first official NFL start was the following week against legendary QB Tom Brady. Brock’s parents had already planned to fly in to watch that game, partly because they were longtime Brady fans! Amazingly, they also got to watch their son become the first QB to beat Tom Brady in their first start as a rookie. Pretty specific stat, but still… Fear had to not only motivate him to act, but probably played a part in his success.
How do you handle a new situation that may induce fear? One of my mantras that I live by is Don’t be afraid to try something new and difficult. But how can you push through the fear? Another mantra that I live by is Focus on what you CAN change. In every situation there is SOMETHING within your control. One thing may be to accept support from coworkers (or teammates!). Everyone needs that support (yes, empathy) from coworkers, friends and family. A culture of empathy works for everyone!
Empathy works and it certainly can be woven into the culture of any group of people. It begins with listening. Practice listening empathetically. Listen with the intent to understand, rather than the intent to reply. Try this one thing in one conversation and let me know how it goes!
Go NINERS!!!!
