Okay, yes, I admit, I have the hots for the man. But he also brings serious inspiration to how I run Chickbook Creative.

I’m seeing a lot of social and blog posts using a ‘10 things’ list about a business or business owner, and I am loving every single one of them. They’re a super fun way to build your brand and connect with your audience in a personal way.

And I knew there was only one topic I could write about on my own: my admiration (fondness, affection, crush, love, OK, OK infatuation..) of the one and only Bill Belichick and how he inspires me in how to show up in my business. (Bonus points if he reads this and unearths his own undying love for me, right? Seriously Bill, DM me) We even have a couple name! #belichickbookcreative! Watch for it, it will be trending soon. 

Ready. Set. Hike.

1. Show up every day and do your job. True for athletes and entrepreneurs, consistency is something MANY struggle with… Full of ideas, executing none. The Patriots are champs because Bill shows up consistently to hold them accountable to do the work. As for me, I bring serious Bill energy to my clients.

2. Take accountability when things don’t go right. It’s EASY to blame others for outcomes and not look within ourselves. Bill will, time and again, stand in front of the press and take ownership when things don’t go as planned in a game.  Like Bill, I’m going to be honest, succinct, and (respectfully) say hard things when my clients need to hear it – because that’s the only way to grow.

3. Control the things we can control. One of the best things about entrepreneurship is the ability to manage all aspects of your employment. Buuuut that can also make it hard to let things go in situations out of our control. We can’t control the weather or, y’know, a global pandemic, but we can control how we react to it. Bill understands that bad officiating, injuries, and “snow bowls” happen but he always keeps his eyes on the prize.  As an operations specialist, there’s no shortage of things to distract me - but my focus is always on helping my clients.

4. Surround yourself with the right players. Bill knows talent when he sees it. (Two words: Tom. Brady.) The same goes for networking - because the colleagues who are right for YOU might not be the big names making headlines. It’s essential to surround yourself with colleagues that share similar values, mindsets, and realistic goals for growth. Trust your gut when you find your people because when you do, you’ll know: they’ll rise to the challenges you put in front of them and you won’t be the only one taking notice. Even if they are a 6th round draft pick (Should I mention Brady again?) Like Bill, I’ve got an entire network of brilliant minds and unconventional talents. Bringing them onto the same team fills my cup.

5. Call out unfairness, and take no sh*t. When something isn’t right, speak up. You know that feeling when something doesn’t sit right with you? It seems too good to be true? Something is just missing? Call it out. Bill isn’t afraid to pull the red challenge flag out of his white tube sock when he sees blatant unfairness. He knows it when he sees it and bravely speaks out. As a trusted advisor to my clients, I’m right there on the sidelines, ready to throw my challenge flag in to show you what obstacles are getting in the way.

6. I don’t need to be part of the league. Bill isn’t part of the NFL Coaches Union. Do you know why? He doesn’t have to be. Bill is a powerhouse. His work speaks for itself. Like my boy Bill, my approach is a bit unique, and I’m less concerned with industry norms or credentials because I stand firm in who I am and what I bring to the table. I’m different than the rest because I’m not trying to be like them. I’m being me. My experience and knowledge speak for themselves.—[mic drop].

7. Use out-of-the-box ideas. My brain can see all facets of a situation. My left-brain analytical side sees the dollars and cents, considers the business perspective, and can see the profitable ideas. My right-brain creative needs to break the mold, dare to be different, and try something new. Bill does too. See examples of Doug Flutie drop kicking an extra point or Belichick’s unorthodox but ingenious scheme for the Giants’ 20-19 upset victory over the Bills. And those are just the ones in the hall of fame. I’ve got that Bill energy. I’m a powerhouse leader and I’ve got the brains to show for it.

8. Be different. You don’t have to be hip. I’m not doing what everyone else is doing. I’m taking your brain and your business and growing them both. I am then combining it with my brain (See Bill’s use of his brain of ideas). We may not be hip with “SnapFace” and “InstantChat,” but we know how to generate brilliant ideas and get them done.

9. We love a good hoodie. I’m particular about my hoodies too. They must be full zip. While Bill has had some outstanding looks over the years (see here and here). I prefer the full-sleeve, zippered front look. We prefer to show up authentically, just as we are.

10. When we smile, it’s a big deal. I mean, I’m pretty sure that I smile significantly more than Bill does, but when it happens, you feel it to your core. Radiating joy when you make good business decisions, you proud of it and it shows. It resonates with your people.
    

Are you a female entrepreneur ready to do the work ON your business? 

A very special thank you to an amazing colleague - the one - the only - Kate Hollis. Also, my dear friend Mo. Without their support this ode-to-Bill would not have come to life. Thank you for being my #1 fans!