Moving goalposts

I heard a story once of the English Rugby team going on a bonding session to an army base.

Within this army base the staff set the rugby players challenges and targets to aim for.

Nice and simple.

Then midway through the activity, just when the rugby team was making some progress the army officials would change the target.

It was like trying to score in goal posts that kept moving.

On the sidelines the army officials pointed out to the rugby coaches the differing reactions these surprises would stir in the players.

The army staff told the coaches, there are some who will bitch and moan about the unexpected changes and there are some who will instantly get to work hitting the new target.

The army staff went on to say the ones who complain will let you down and the ones who adapted could be relied upon.

I thought this was such a cool acid test. What a way to display someone’s mindset.

Also what a great opportunity to practice a valuable skill.

Because after all, when does anything go to plan?

It’s no wonder they went on to win the Rugby World Cup.