Step 2.6: Next Play
“In basketball and in life, I have always maintained the philosophy of ‘Next Play.’
Essentially, what it means is that what you have just done is not nearly as important as what you are doing right now. The ‘next play’ philosophy emphasizes the fact that the most important play of the game or life moment on which you should always focus is the next one. It is not about the turnover I committed last time down the court, it’s not even about the three-pointer I hit to tie the game, it is about what’s next.
I’m all about Next Play. You’ve got to prove yourself again and again and again. People who are really good at anything don’t rely on what they’ve done. They want to be judged on what they’re doing. Last year doesn’t matter. It’s a whole new year…The season is like a lifetime and then it’s over and a new one starts.
Next Play. You keep learning.”
- Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski, Duke University.
Ever feel stuck in the past? You’re not alone.
One of the mantras repeated to preschoolers by teachers looking to prevent complete chaos is, “Look where you’re going, not where you came from!” It’s simple yet profound advice, and it’s just as relevant for adults navigating their careers as it is for toddlers learning to walk in a straight line.
I’ve seen too many colleagues over the years still defining themselves by past achievements and roles. Even when they’re more than a decade in the past. Just like the Springsteen song, they cling to their glory days, showcasing old titles and past successes like badges of honor. But here’s the harsh truth: nobody cares about your past as much as you do. What truly matters is where you’re heading.
Relying on past achievements can create a dangerous comfort zone. It feels safe to reminisce about the times you were at the top of your game, but this nostalgia can become a barrier to progress. When you constantly look back, you miss out on opportunities ahead. You become the guy who peaked in high school or the executive who keeps reminding everyone of that one big deal closed ten years ago.
People with a growth mindset don’t do that - they embrace the mantra to "Turn The Page”.
Adopting a forward-thinking, growth mindset starts with a conscious decision to focus on the future. In the fast-paced world we live in, standing still is not an option. The competition is always moving, and so should you. It’s great to acknowledge where you’ve been and what you’ve achieved, but it’s even more important to focus on where you’re headed.
The best athletes, leaders, and innovators are those who continuously set their sights on the next challenge. They don’t dwell on past victories; they use them as stepping stones to reach new heights.
Looking where you’re going, not where you came from, is about embracing change and seeking out new opportunities. It’s about building a future that’s even brighter than your past. So, let go of the glory days. Use them as motivation, but keep your eyes on the path ahead.
Remember, your best days are not behind you—they’re in front of you. Keep moving forward.
Your Playbook:
What are the things that I’m going to stop defining myself by?
What are my new goals? Define what success looks like for you now.
What do you want to achieve in the next year, the next five years? Aim for milestones that push you beyond your past achievements.