When I talk about a successful program, define that. It's not just winning the national championship every year because nobody can do that.
Interpretation
Success is not solely measured by winning, but by achieving set goals and values.
In this quote, Nick Saban emphasizes that success should not be simplistically defined as winning championships every year, as that is an unrealistic expectation. Instead, true success encompasses consistently working towards defined objectives, fostering growth, and measuring progress beyond just outcomes.
In practice
In a motivational speech for student-athletes discussing what it means to be successful beyond just winning.
I don't want people to think I'm not happy when we win - I am. But there's a difference between being happy for the feeling of accomplishing something and being overjoyed and feeling, 'This is it - we conquered the world.' We didn't. We just won a game.
I don't believe you name a starter until the starter wins the team.
People talk about you won four national championships. Well, I feel like we've had good enough teams to win eight. So I feel like we failed four times. I feel like I failed four times.
What happened yesterday is history. What happens tomorrow is a mystery. What we do today makes a difference - the precious present moment.
I think the worst thing a player can do is just not be yourself.
I think when you win the national championship, it works throughout your team. Where human nature is to say, I did well. I got my quota this month. Now do I get some time off? Do I get a bonus? Do I get to go on a cruise? But it's not to keep trying to be the best. That's not necessarily human nature.
Without the element of enjoyment, it is not worth trying to excel at anything.
Integrity is the essence of everything successful.
If 90% of success in life is showing up, the other 10% depends on what you're showing up for.
Achieving the MDGs is not optional; it is an essential investment in a safer, more human and prosperous world
I've long believed that if you're not embarrassed by your first product release, you've released too late.
Money is worth what it will help you to produce or buy and no more.
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