You don’t have to be a baseball fan to appreciate the drama and history packed into a Cubs vs. Indians World Series.
Many people tuned in, hopping on the bandwagon for the conclusion of a 108-year championship drought, and were treated to one of the best series in baseball’s long and storied history.
Game 7 was absolutely incredible. There were violent swings of momentum, unlikely heroes, elite players coming apart at the seams from overuse, and a 39-year-old catcher playing his last game ever.
Riding the emotion and following the storylines of this historic game 7, I found myself focusing most on a factor in the game where no players were on the field: a rain delay.
That delay just prior to the extra inning, in my mind, was the deciding factor in the Cubs’ victory. The delay lasted only 17 minutes, long enough to unroll and re-roll the infield tarp. But, it provided enough pause in the action to break up the momentum that Cleveland had gathered while erasing a 4-run deficit.
Momentum is a powerful and mysterious force. When you have it, you are at a decided advantage. When it is working against you, look out.
In a lifetime of watching and playing sports, I have learned a few tricks when applying those lessons (or that lens) to help keep the wind at your back instead of in your face:

• A positive attitude is just as important in success and as it is in adversity.
• Build a team of hard workers.
• Call a timeout, take a break, or try something different when you need to.
• Listen to and support your teammates.
• Think about the previous successes and hard times you’ve persevered through.
• Learn from failure; don’t fear it.
• Celebrate your big successes.

What is the momentum and morale of your company right now? What can you do to capitalize on it?
photo credit: © iStock.com/Saturated

You don’t have to be a baseball fan to appreciate this week’s lesson. Have your own tip for how to use momentum in your favor? Comment below or share with Ben directly.