Consistency and Commitment Drive Uncommon Results - Episode Hero Image

Consistency and Commitment Drive Uncommon Results

THE ED MYLETT SHOW · · Listen to Original Episode →
Original Title:

TL;DR

  • Uncommon results require uncommon standards, especially when motivation is absent, as success is built on habits, not isolated moments.
  • Elite leaders earn trust through consistent daily preparation, demonstrating commitment and dedication that teammates can rely on.
  • The distinction between being interested and being committed is crucial, as only commitment fuels the consistent action needed for progress.
  • Small, daily habits create massive long-term momentum, proving that discipline and honoring small promises build significant momentum.
  • Discipline cultivates confidence even before tangible results appear, reinforcing belief through consistent effort and preparation.
  • Sustaining excellence over decades, not just months, demands unwavering professionalism and a commitment to showing up prepared consistently.
  • True follow-through, rather than mere inspiration, is the driver of achievement, necessitating raised standards and locked-in habits.

Deep Dive

Success is forged through consistent, disciplined habits, not fleeting moments of inspiration, a principle exemplified by elite athletes and entrepreneurs who demonstrate that unwavering commitment and relentless work ethic are the true drivers of uncommon results. This episode, featuring Troy Aikman, Dabo Swinney, Mark "The Undertaker" Calaway, Gerard Adams, and Jim Rome, underscores that while talent may open doors, it is the daily dedication to improvement and the willingness to embrace challenges that build enduring achievement and trust.

The core argument is that true success and leadership are built on a foundation of unbreakable consistency and commitment, particularly when motivation wanes. Troy Aikman highlights that great leaders are "not outworked," emphasizing that teammates trust those who consistently demonstrate dedication. This trust is foundational, creating stability within teams and organizations. Dabo Swinney extends this to faith, asserting that living by one's principles consistently, regardless of external opinions, is crucial for shaping culture and character, stating that "whatever you do, do it with all your heart, as if you're working for the Lord." Mark Calaway illustrates longevity and professionalism through decades of consistent performance, driven by a business-first mentality and loyalty, which earned him the trust of both colleagues and leadership. Gerard Adams emphasizes that momentum is built by honoring small, daily promises to oneself, a discipline instilled through his upbringing and early work ethic. Jim Rome, a master of his craft, champions the "grind" and dedication over raw talent, advocating for a "take a take, don't suck" approach and a conscious creation of culture through consistently applied principles and a relentless pursuit of improvement, even after achieving significant success.

The second-order implications reveal that this commitment to consistency and discipline has systemic impacts. For leaders, it means earning unwavering trust and creating a stable environment for their teams, as Aikman notes. For individuals, it translates into building personal confidence and momentum, as Adams suggests, by honoring small promises, which compounds into massive long-term gains. This consistent effort breeds an internal discipline that fosters resilience, enabling individuals to navigate failure and criticism, as demonstrated by Aikman's rookie year struggles and Rome's early career setbacks. Swinney's emphasis on being true to oneself, even when facing criticism, shows that authentic leadership and consistent values build strong cultures that attract and retain talent. Ultimately, the collective message is that sustained excellence, whether in sports, business, or personal life, requires a conscious and continuous effort to show up, do the work, and remain committed, proving that "consistency is not sexy, but it is undefeated."

Action Items

  • Audit personal habits: Identify 3-5 daily routines that deviate from consistency and commitment principles (ref: Ed Mylett Show).
  • Track progress on one new habit: Measure consistency for 2-4 weeks, focusing on showing up even when motivation fades (ref: Ed Mylett Show).
  • Evaluate team or peer interactions: Assess if trust is earned through daily preparation and commitment, as exemplified by elite leaders (ref: Ed Mylett Show).
  • Draft a personal "uncommon standard": Define one specific rule for showing up when motivation is low, inspired by the episode's guests (ref: Ed Mylett Show).

Related Episodes

Key Quotes

"You're going to hear from people who have won at the highest levels of sports, business, leadership, and life, and every one of them shares the same truth. Success is not built in moments. It is built in habits."

This quote from the episode description highlights the central theme of the podcast: the foundational role of habits in achieving success. The author emphasizes that lasting achievement is the result of consistent, daily actions rather than isolated, significant events. This underscores the importance of discipline and routine for listeners aiming for high-level accomplishments.

"Troy Aikman takes us inside what it really means to be trusted as a leader when everything is on the line. He shares why the greats are never outworked, how daily preparation creates belief inside a locker room, and why commitment is proven long before game day."

This excerpt from the episode description introduces Troy Aikman's contribution, focusing on leadership and commitment. Aikman's perspective emphasizes that true leadership is built on consistent effort and preparation, which in turn fosters trust and belief among teammates. The idea that commitment is demonstrated over time, not just in critical moments, provides an actionable insight into developing strong leadership qualities.

"Consistency is not sexy, but it is undefeated."

This quote, attributed to Jim Rome, succinctly captures the unglamorous yet powerful nature of consistency. Jim Rome argues that while consistency may not be flashy or exciting, its unwavering effectiveness makes it an unbeatable strategy. This highlights the value of persistent, everyday effort over fleeting moments of brilliance.

"The through line for all great quarterbacks, great leaders at that position or in general, is that they put in the work and they're not outworked."

Troy Aikman explains a core principle of leadership, suggesting that the commonality among exceptional leaders, particularly quarterbacks, is their dedication to hard work and their refusal to be surpassed in effort. Aikman posits that this commitment to outworking others is fundamental to their success and the trust they garner from their teams. This principle extends beyond sports to any field requiring leadership and high performance.

"My job is to win football games, but I know who my Maker is too. And I know that when you are a person of faith and you're a Christian, that's not something you turn on and off. Whatever you do, you do it as if you're working for the Lord."

Dabo Swinney articulates his philosophy on integrating faith into leadership and performance. Coach Swinney asserts that his faith is a constant guiding principle, influencing all aspects of his life and work, not just his public persona. He emphasizes that this commitment to his beliefs, even when facing criticism, is integral to his identity and his approach to coaching and life.

"The boys the guy the wrestlers -- you know, they saw what the business meant to me and that the business always came first. No matter what, the business came first."

The Undertaker (Mark Calaway) describes his approach to leadership within the wrestling world. He explains that his colleagues recognized his dedication to the profession, prioritizing the business's success above all else. This commitment to the "business" fostered trust and respect, positioning him as a reliable leader within the organization.

Resources

External Resources

Books

  • "The Bible" - Referenced for the verse Colossians 3:23 regarding doing all things with heart as if working for the Lord.

Articles & Papers

  • "Is This the End of the Roman Empire?" (Publication not specified) - Mentioned as an article that speculated on the end of Jim Rome's career.

People

  • Troy Aikman - Featured guest, discussed as a three-time Super Bowl champion, Super Bowl MVP, and one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, also noted for his post-football career in the beer business.
  • Jim Rome - Featured guest, discussed as a sports radio host on CBS Sports Radio and CBS Sports Network, known for his show "The Jim Rome Show."
  • Dabo Swinney - Featured guest, discussed as the head football coach at Clemson, known for his success, including two national championships, and his public expression of faith.
  • Mark "The Undertaker" Calaway - Featured guest, discussed as the longest-tenured WWE superstar in history, known for his leadership in the locker room and numerous television appearances.
  • Gerard Adams - Featured guest, discussed as the founder of Elite Daily, a serial entrepreneur, and referred to by Forbes as "the millennial mentor."
  • John Elway - Mentioned as a great quarterback and leader, compared to Troy Aikman and Tom Brady.
  • Tom Brady - Mentioned as a great quarterback and leader, compared to Troy Aikman and John Elway.
  • Joe Montana - Mentioned as a great quarterback.
  • Peyton Manning - Mentioned as a great quarterback.
  • Otto Graham - Mentioned as a great quarterback who won many championships.
  • Roger Staubach - Mentioned as a great quarterback.
  • Aaron Rodgers - Mentioned as a great quarterback.
  • Patrick Mahomes - Mentioned as a great quarterback.
  • Emmitt Smith - Mentioned as the all-time leading rusher.
  • Michael Irvin - Mentioned as a Hall of Fame wide receiver.
  • Jimmy Johnson - Mentioned as a coach, former head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, and Hall of Famer.
  • Bill Belichick - Mentioned as a coach, potentially the greatest coach of all time.
  • Bill Walsh - Mentioned as a coach.
  • Andy Reid - Mentioned as a coach, regarded as a player's coach.
  • Jerry Rome - Mentioned as Troy Aikman's quarterback coach who played in the NFL.
  • Steve Walsh - Mentioned as a player drafted by Jimmy Johnson.
  • David Baker - Mentioned as the person running the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
  • Nolan - Referred to as a "quarterback guru."
  • Elon Musk - Mentioned as an example of a successful entrepreneur.
  • Phil Knight - Mentioned as an example of a successful entrepreneur.
  • Mark Cuban - Mentioned as an example of a successful entrepreneur.
  • Vince McMahon - Mentioned as the overall leader of WWE and Mark Callaway's friend.
  • Billy Koch - Mentioned as a former college baseball player and race syndicate owner.
  • Alex Solis - Mentioned as Jim Rome's race manager.
  • Logan - Mentioned as Jim Rome's ten-year-old son.
  • Mike O'Hearn - Mentioned as someone who can "bench the house."
  • Zig Ziglar - Mentioned as an author whose work Jim Rome read.
  • Og Mandino - Mentioned as an author whose work Jim Rome read.
  • Tom Hopkins - Mentioned as an author whose work Jim Rome read.
  • Dale Carnegie - Mentioned as an author whose work Jim Rome read.
  • LeBron James - Mentioned as an example of an athlete who continues to work hard after many years.
  • Jerry Rice - Mentioned as a former athlete who maintains good shape.
  • Mark Lori - Mentioned as the head of Walmart.

Organizations & Institutions

  • NFL (National Football League) - The professional American football league discussed.
  • UCLA - University where Troy Aikman played college football.
  • Oklahoma - University where Troy Aikman played college football.
  • Dallas Cowboys - Professional football team for which Troy Aikman played.
  • Clemson - University where Dabo Swinney is the head football coach.
  • Alabama - University where Dabo Swinney was a walk-on.
  • WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) - Organization where Mark Callaway had a long career.
  • WCW (World Championship Wrestling) - Professional wrestling organization mentioned in relation to Mark Callaway's career.
  • Elite Daily - Online publication founded by Gerard Adams.
  • Forbes Magazine - Publication that referred to Gerard Adams as "the millennial mentor."
  • CBS Sports Radio Network - Network where "The Jim Rome Show" is hosted.
  • CBS Sports Network - Network where "The Jim Rome Show" is simulcast.
  • University of Santa Barbara (UCSB) - University where Jim Rome attended and worked at the radio station.
  • Harris Lanier - Company where Jim Rome worked selling dictation equipment.
  • William Morris - Agency where Mark Shapiro works.
  • ESPN - Sports television network where Mark Shapiro previously worked.
  • New York Giants - Professional football team.
  • New England Patriots - Professional football team.
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame - Hall of Fame where Troy Aikman was inducted.
  • Cowboys Stadium - Stadium where the Dallas Cowboys play.

Websites & Online Resources

  • Ed Mylett Show (Apple/Spotify) - Platforms where the podcast can be followed.
  • Ed Mylett's YouTube Channel - Platform to subscribe to for content.
  • Instagram - Social media platform for connecting with Ed Mylett.
  • Facebook - Social media platform for connecting with Ed Mylett.
  • LinkedIn - Social media platform for connecting with Ed Mylett.
  • X (formerly Twitter) - Social media platform for connecting with Ed Mylett.
  • Ed Mylett's Website - Online resource for Ed Mylett.
  • American Express - Company offering the Amex Business Gold Card.
  • Megaphone.fm - Platform for ad choices.

Other Resources

  • "The Dream" - Mentioned in relation to Troy Aikman's post-football career.
  • "Eight" (Beer) - A beer brand co-founded by Troy Aikman, noted for using 100% organic grains and having low calories and carbs.
  • "The Streak" - Mentioned in relation to The Undertaker's Wrestlemania record.
  • "The Jungle" - A term used to describe the culture of Jim Rome's show.
  • "Clones" - A term used in relation to the culture of Jim Rome's show.
  • "Have a Take, Don't Suck" - A slogan or philosophy associated with Jim Rome's show.
  • "The Mighty 690" - A radio station in Santa Barbara.
  • "The Quarterback Attack" - An incident involving Jim Rome and Jim Everett.
  • "The Roman Empire" - A reference to a potential end of Jim Rome's career.
  • "The Bombary Sapphire Club" - A group Jim Rome was part of.
  • "The Breeders' Cup" - A major horse racing event.
  • "Misdirection" - A horse that saved Jim Rome's horse racing career.
  • "Shared Belief" - A horse that passed away, representing a low point in Jim Rome's horse racing experience.
  • "The Combine" - An event where Mark Lori raced Jerry Rice.
  • "The 40" - A race distance, specifically the 40-yard dash.
  • "The Ring of Honor" - A designation at Cowboys Stadium.
  • "NIL" (Name, Image, Likeness) - A concept discussed in relation to college athletes.
  • "Wishbone Offense" - An offensive scheme at Oklahoma that did not fit Troy Aikman's skills.
  • "The Belt" - A form of discipline mentioned by Gerard Adams regarding his father.
  • "Grand Theft Auto" - A crime Gerard Adams was involved in.
  • "Food Stamps" - Mentioned in relation to Fernando Valenzuela.
  • "The Office" - Refers to the management side of WWE.
  • "The Boys" - Refers to the wrestlers in WWE.
  • "Talent Relations VP" - A role within WWE.
  • "The Ring of Honor" - A designation at Cowboys Stadium.
  • "The Mighty 690" - A radio station in Santa Barbara.
  • "The Quarterback Attack" - An incident involving Jim Rome and Jim Everett.
  • "The Roman Empire" - A reference to a potential end of Jim Rome's career.
  • "The Bombary Sapphire Club" - A group Jim Rome was part of.
  • "The Breeders' Cup" - A major horse racing event.
  • "Misdirection" - A horse that saved Jim Rome's horse racing career.
  • "Shared Belief" - A horse that passed away, representing a low point in Jim Rome's horse racing experience.
  • "The Combine" - An event where Mark Lori raced Jerry Rice.
  • "The 40" - A race distance, specifically the 40-yard dash.
  • "The Ring of Honor" - A designation at Cowboys Stadium.
  • "NIL" (Name, Image, Likeness) - A concept discussed in relation to college athletes.
  • "Wishbone Offense" - An offensive scheme at Oklahoma that did not fit Troy Aikman's skills.
  • "The Belt" - A form of discipline mentioned by Gerard Adams regarding his father.
  • "Grand Theft Auto" - A crime Gerard Adams was involved in.
  • "Food Stamps" - Mentioned in relation to Fernando Valenzuela.
  • "The Office" - Refers to the management side of WWE.
  • "The Boys" - Refers to the wrestlers in WWE.
  • "Talent Relations VP" - A role within WWE.

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