Self-control forms the first block in the second level of Coach John Wooden's renowned Success Pyramid—a foundational quality for leaders and teams striving to reach their full potential. As Wooden emphasized, leaders must embody self-control to inspire it in their teams.
Related: Why self-control is so important
During games, Coach Wooden maintained composure on the bench, believing it set the tone for his players. He shared: “I felt my players would be more in control if I seemed to be in control. If I get out of control, how can I tell them that if they lose their self-control, they're going to be outplayed, when I'm seemingly losing my self-control on the bench? I think your actions can largely determine the actions of those under your supervision.”
Players often lose composure when caught off guard. To prevent this, Wooden sent a preseason letter outlining clear expectations for conduct and treatment, fostering an environment of mutual self-control.
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Here's an excerpt from his letter to the 1972-73 team in August 1972:
You have to discipline yourself to do this what is expected of you for the well-being of the team. The coach has many decisions to make and you will not agree with all of them, but you must respect and accept them. Without supervision and leadership and disciplined effort by all, much of our united strength will be dissipated, pulling against ourselves. Let's not fall victim to a breakdown from the inside.
You may feel, at times, that I have double standards because I certainly won't treat you the same. However, I will try to give each player the treatment they earn and deserve in my judgment and in accordance with what I consider to be in the best interest of the team. I know I won't be right in all my decisions, but I will try to be both fair and just.
“I believe that for every man-made peak you create, you also create valleys.”
Wooden viewed self-control and emotional balance as vital for peak performance amid challenges. He explained: “I believe that for every man-made peak you create, you also create valleys. When you get too high for anything, emotion takes over and consistency of performance is lost and you will be unduly affected when adversity arrives. I emphasized constant improvement and stable performance. It is self-control in thought and action that creates consistency.”
Finally, as he often reminded us: "The more we care about the things we can't control, the less we will do with the things we can control."
Related: 5 Ways Successful People Take Control of Life
