Will your “One-Day Contract” be Renewed?
By John Ricco
I recently heard the “one-day contract” concept touted by the Florida Gators quasi-embattled head football coach, Billy Napier and originated by Hall of Fame basketball coach, Rick Pitino. As we get to the end of the year, I felt it may be a good motivator for those taking stock of 2024 and planning for 2025. The idea is simple yet profound: approach every day as if you have a professional contract that expires at the day’s end.
Would your effort, results, and attitude earn you a renewal for tomorrow? This mindset, though born on the hardwood of the basketball court, has profound implications for the workplace.
Here’s how professionals can adopt and benefit from the “one-day contract” philosophy:
- Focus on the day’s goals: Break down long-term objectives into daily priorities. Tackle each day with clarity and purpose, ensuring meaningful progress.
- Deliver consistently: Excellence isn’t achieved in bursts; it’s the result of steady, reliable performance. Treat every task, no matter how small, as an opportunity to showcase your capabilities.
- Be accountable: Ask yourself daily, “Did I contribute enough value today to be ‘rehired’ tomorrow?” This self-assessment fosters personal responsibility and growth.
- Stay Present: Avoid distractions and don’t be consumed by distant goals or past problems. The one-day contract keeps you grounded, ensuring you maximize the here and now of today, so you will be successful tomorrow.
- Foster Team Synergy: In a business context, this philosophy can be a powerful tool for teams. Encourage colleagues to embrace it, creating a culture of accountability and mutual respect.
The “one-day contract” isn’t just a way to push for results; it’s a framework for becoming the best version of yourself, one day at a time. Whether you’re in non-profit professional or in sales, management, or entrepreneurship, asking “Did I earn another day?” can be a transformative question.
John has over twenty-five years’ experience in virtually all facets of association management. He is a former Chair of the Florida Society of Association Executives Board of Directors and in 2011 was recognized as their Executive Member of the Year. Fun Fact(s): John is a twin; outside of work he is a woodworking hobbyist and he also enjoys “all things outdoors”: kayaking, rucking/hiking, yard work, fishing and working out.
