“It’s not wanting to win that makes you a winner; it’s refusing to fail.” — Peyton Manning

Peyton Manning is known worldwide as one of the greatest of all time.

When Manning took the field in Super Bowl 50 earlier this month, he earned the honor to stand alongside another all-time Denver great, John Elway, as the oldest NFL quarterbacks to win a Super Bowl. At 39, Manning is considered an “old man” in football and would be considered the same in most other sports, as well.

His back story in the 2015/16 season is that he was already reduced to being a second string quarterback when he came off the bench in week 15 to rally the Broncos to a win; propelling the team into the post-season and the Super Bowl.

He achieved his incredible success through hard work, determination, and an excellent leadership strategy inspired by his father, former NFL quarterback Archie Manning. Peyton believed that the most important qualities of a successful team leader is to always strive for respect. He once said he hopes his legacy is to be respected by both his own team and the other side. Manning didn’t just rely on talent to get where he is; he also understands that a big win is not just an individual goal, it’s also a team effort.

The best players lead by example and hold themselves to the same high standards that they expect from others. Peyton Manning always took responsibility when his team faced defeat. He set the tone for the performance he expected from his fellow NFL teammates by holding himself accountable, first and foremost.

Much of his success was driven by his aura of football confidence, a presence that permeates the culture. This was apparent in Peyton Manning’s deep belief that he and his team will make it. He carried that through in his off the field demeanor. Anyone could just look into his eyes and saw the deep confidence of an unshakable winner.

It has been widely assumed that Manning, who turns 40 on March 24, would retire soon. His body is breaking down and can no longer stand up to the rigors of a younger man’s game, even though his football mind is as sharp as ever. His current job is just about over for him. His football end was based more on football psychology and physiology, not so much on age bias or personality deficits.

If you ever imagined that you might exit this world with your dignity more or less intact, consider the illustrious Peyton Manning and his legacy towards the football mental game. There is always scope to develop a mindset for someone who always strives to improve; someone who is unafraid to expose his mistakes and learn from them.

Peyton Manning may have been born into football royalty, but he has earned the keys to the kingdom.

*Download the free mental game assessment and get started on Improving your Mental Game in Football

Like my FB page and receive 10% off products by Delice
Facebook.com/productsbydelice