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2/3/08 In addition to being one of the greatest of all-time, Tom Brady is truly a humble man. He is not faking sincerity, he is very humble. But, it wasn’t always that way… Ten years ago he sat in coach Lloyd Carr’s office and insisted he should be playing more because he was much better than the other QB’s on the team. He proceeded to extol his virtues incessantly while demeaning his teammates. Carr never interrupted once, quietly waiting until the end of Brady’s tirade before offering million-dollar advice; “Tom,” he stated, “Worry about yourself.” From there Brady let his work do the talking and the rest is history. It is only human to want people to respect you. But you don’t get it by holding ad hoc press conferences to brag about how great you are. This appears to be a favorite game in Novi. If you have thin skin, stop reading now. If not, take a page from the Brady playbook. Every time a parent shows up at a sporting event waxing whimsical about how wonderful their child is, know that your efforts are backfiring. People realize you think you child is terrific, most parents do. We know you think the college your kid has chosen is a much wiser, much more fantastic opportunity than the person you’re giving the speech to. We know you think that your offspring is a special breed, a superior being that has taken that learned behavior from you and talked big about themselves to their peers at school all day. But, when people engage this way they don’t look confident and accomplished… They look needy, insecure, and envious. You may think you’re holding court with associates that agree with you, but behind your back they think you look ridiculous. The truth is, there are a ton of kids in Novi that have really acquitted themselves well. Good grades, fine athletes, bright futures. Parents should be proud, but living vicariously through their kid’s achievements doesn’t make them look successful, just annoying. This week is National Signing Day, and it will be a momentous occasion for lots of families. No one needs to boast about it, just enjoy it. And if you really want respect, let your actions do the talking. True greatness needs no self-promotion. Just ask Tom Brady… (c) 2007 Novi
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