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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Legacy summary
James Kerr
Brief summary
Legacy by James Kerr provides valuable lessons from the culture of the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team. It explores the team's winning mindset, leadership strategies, and commitment to excellence that can be applied in any aspect of life.
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Table of Contents
Legacy
Summary of key ideas
Living the Haka
In Legacy, James Kerr engages with the storied history and unique ethos of the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team. These athletes embody the principles of 'Whakapapa' and 'Tikanga', which underline the importance of knowing who you are and where you come from, while adhering to ethically correct behavior. Centrally, Kerr acquaints us with 'Haka', the ancestral war dance. To the All Blacks, the Haka is not just a fierce pre-game ritual, it's a reminder to stand strong and face life’s adversities head-on.
'Tikanga' also extends into maintaining a player-led culture. As part of the 'Sweep the Sheds' policy, every player, irrespective of their status, is expected to clean their locker room, promoting humility and collective responsibility. It's these deeply ingrained values and principles that have fashioned the All Blacks into the most successful sports team in history.
Charting your own destiny: Whakapapa
Continuing further into the essence of Legacy, Kerr elaborates on 'Whanau' or the sense of extended family, the significance of camaraderie and collective identity in the All Blacks’ culture. Building on 'Whakapapa', Kerr talks about the legacy - taking the jersey (or taking on a role), leaving it in a better place, and thus becoming a part of something greater than oneself. It's an invitation to greatness - an imperative to strive, for the betterment of the team.
'Going for the Gap' is another principle presented by Kerr, encouraging individuals to strive for continual improvement. A constant quest for leadership and excellence, and the insistence on innovation and adaptation, creates a cycle of advantage crucial to the All Blacks’ continued success. They continuously strive to better themselves, always 'fighting for the inch' – the minute advantages that collectively can be game changers.
Embodying the warrior spirit: Haka
Next, Kerr introduces us to 'Black Box Thinking', a principle centred on assuming responsibility and learning from failure. The All Blacks’ commitment to confronting their mistakes and weaknesses has fostered an environment where every player constantly seeks improvement. The team’s culture of honesty, courage, and comradeship nurtures resilience in the face of adversity and encourages personal growth on and off the field.
The book also explores the concept of 'Authentic Leadership'. A true leader, in the All Blacks' eyes, is a 'Kaitiaki' or a guardian whose role is to guard the legacy. Kerr encourages the creation of leaders throughout the organization, extending leadership responsibilities to all. He argues that leadership is not a privilege reserved for a select few but a responsibility shouldered by all players, leading not by the rank of their jersey, but by their action and character.
The legacy of a champion: Team of teams
The analogy of 'A Plant that Grows' describes how the All Blacks’ chief intention is to represent and honour those who came before them, those they play with now, and those who will wear the jersey in the future. Their obligation to enhance their legacy and leave the jersey in a better place underlines the embodiment of their longstanding values.
In conclusion, Legacy encapsulates a journey exploring the ideology that has been crucial to the sustained success of the All Blacks. It demonstrates how the application of these principles, rooted in the New Zealand tribe's cultural traditions, can be used to guide individuals and teams in every sphere of life, not just rugby. Kerr presents a roadmap to potential greatness by embracing one's roots, striving for leadership, assuming responsibility, and growing with and within one's team.
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What is Legacy about?
Legacy explores the leadership principles and cultural values that have made the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team one of the most successful sports teams in history. Drawing on interviews with players and coaches, the book offers valuable insights into building a winning team and leaving a lasting legacy. It delves into topics such as accountability, humility, and continuous improvement, providing valuable lessons for leaders in any field.
Legacy Review
Legacy (2013) by James Kerr explores the secrets of the immensely successful All Blacks rugby team and provides valuable insights that can be applied to any aspect of life. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- It offers practical strategies that can be implemented to achieve excellence in any endeavor.
- The book provides fascinating stories and anecdotes about the All Blacks, demonstrating the power of strong values and teamwork.
- With its inspiring lessons about leadership, resilience, and success, it keeps readers engaged and motivated throughout.
Who should read Legacy?
- Leaders and individuals looking to understand the secrets of successful sports teams
- Those interested in applying team strategies and principles to their own organizations or personal lives
- People who enjoy exploring the connection between leadership, mindset, and performance
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Legacy FAQs
What is the main message of Legacy?
The main message of Legacy is that good leadership is vital for cultivating success and building a winning team.
How long does it take to read Legacy?
The reading time for Legacy varies depending on the reader's pace. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Legacy a good book? Is it worth reading?
Legacy is a compelling read for anyone interested in leadership and teamwork. It offers valuable insights and practical lessons in an engaging manner.
Who is the author of Legacy?
The author of Legacy is James Kerr.
What to read after Legacy?
If you're wondering what to read next after Legacy, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Basic Economics by Thomas Sowell
- The Ascent of Money by Niall Ferguson
- Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
- The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
- Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
- Secrets of the Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker
- The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
- Business Adventures by John Brooks
- The Most Important Thing by Howard Marks
- More Money Than God by Sebastian Mallaby