A Little Executive Coaching for Mr. Brett Favre

Given Mr. Favre's on-and-off approach to his career of late, it's obvious the man has had some difficulties figuring himself out. Even though he's landed with the Vikings, whatever was holding Favre back has gotta be lurking around.

Unlike the sports fanatical talk jockies who think Favre's level of talent is "owed" feet-kissing tolerance, I think it's the buying consumer that deserves the respect...and it's time to start showing it.

I've coached a few executives who straddled the career fence, so I figured I'd take a virtual session with Mr. Favre right here. Express version - since I'm not charging a fee.

Here we go: Wishy-washy behavior means a few red-flags were waving -- same flags, no doubt, that Nolan Ryan and Roger Clemmens saw. When the flags begin to wave, you must pay attention to them, because that's a signal that a big decision is coming. The longer you put off figuring out how to deal with them, the more emotional the decision-making process.

These guys knew (as have the guys before them), the day would come when they'd have to determine the fate of their career. When a single play could end their livelihood, it certainly is difficult to pre-think what would you do if your career actually lasted into your 40s, but you do need to prepare and think about that time.

High-paying sports professionals are expensive entertainers with a danger-component. And, while leadership is critical, sports pros aren't necessarily leaders and don't need to be upheld to that extent. If, Mr. Favre, you think you deserve that status, then knee-jerk career decisions have no place in front of your consumers...now or in the future. Neither does a nasty ball-cap and tee-shirt in a press conference with your new employers. You shouldn't look like you just got pulled away from mowing your lawn and didn't even have the time or interest to scrape your face. Step it up--deserve the respect.

Now, here's the nitty gritty -- the pressure's on. You've got to perform up to par, because the next time you retire...you will be retired...period. This is your career-ending leg of the journey. What do you do with this opportunity? If you ignored the waving flags of decision before, then you know what you have to do now. You HAVE to pay attention to your physical health and fitness like never before. You HAVE to be the model workhorse and negotiate your fit. More importantly, you HAVE to communicate to your teammates and fans with surety and a clear head. The eyes are on you -- expect judgment on about every play.

We all know your talent. But, your age won't lie...so if you're aiming for a magnificent "finish" --you're gonna have to do it with a lot of support (on the field and off).

I don't care what your agents, publicists, and media advisors are telling you -- get out of the spotlight a little and let those who are tired of hearing your name have a chance to recover.

Let the Vikings take center stage and promote your teammates. When you do emerge in front of a camera, speak about the sport...the team...the game - make it plain that you're past the latest episode. Speak clearly and precisely -- no more ramblings and dramatic silences.

Make us believe you made the right decision.

That's it -- now let's play some football!

(Note to Mr. Favre: Available for a live session - contact my office)