Paul Rabil, the “LeBron of Lacrosse,” reveals his leadership mentality playbook

The 38-year-old, who holds the all-time points record in skilled lacrosse and is a two-time lacrosse world champion with Team USA, spoke in regards to the leadership qualities he has seen in each sports and business. Assets: “We don’t want to hire people to regulate traffic. We want to hire people to build traffic lights.”

For Rabil, referred to as “the LeBron James of lacrosse“The best leaders are those that are willing to get entangled in day-to-day operations, at the same time as they move up the hierarchy.

“When great leaders move up, they often start delegating more. And I understand the balance: You’re leading your team, so you have to be really efficient. But I’ve seen a lot of talented leaders stop getting the work done,” he said.

Rabil believes that along with a robust work ethic, empathy can also be crucial to leadership. “An empathetic and compassionate leader is someone that people enjoy working for, especially when they see you doing the work.”

Compromise is the important thing to success

Rabil’s reflections on leadership are based on his experiences within the transition from skilled athlete to entrepreneur.

He co-founded the PLL along with his brother Mike while still knowledgeable athlete, an unusual move for an athlete.

The league, which has upended the standard lacrosse model, forced Rabil to take a more business-oriented approach while continuing to channel the competitive instinct that has propelled his sports profession.

“In sports, it’s a binary world – you either win or you lose,” Rabil said. “But in business, compromise is key. If I negotiate too hard and win a deal, the other side won’t want to renew the contract, and that’s a loss for everyone.”

He describes this approach as a “competitive compromise,” a balancing act between maintaining an athlete’s discipline and recognizing the collaborative nature of the business.

How defeat made Rabil the last word lacrosse winner

Rabil’s understanding of resilience comes from his athletic profession. Although he won championships at every level, his defeats shaped his mindset.

“Losing the college championship in my senior year at Johns Hopkins University and losing the World Championship with Team USA against Canada – those were the most defining moments for me,” he said. “Every time I suffered a loss that felt unbearable, I developed even more grit and reflection.”

Inspiration from Michael Strahan, David Beckham and John Cena

Despite his success, Rabil admits he struggles with imposter syndrome – one other trait he believes is common amongst athletes and entrepreneurs. “I think a lot of us feel like we haven’t quite arrived yet. That’s part of what drives us.”

Rabil draws inspiration from other athletes who’ve successfully transitioned into latest fields, similar to Michael Strahan, David Beckham and John Cena. “What John Cena has accomplished – going from professional wrestler to actor and even speaking fluent Mandarin – is incredibly impressive,” said Rabil. “And Michael Strahan’s transition from a fierce NFL lineman to a broadcaster Good morning America shows the form of versatility that inspires me.”

Rabil’s advice for achievement

As for advice to the subsequent generation, Rabil encourages creativity and out-of-the-box pondering – values ​​which can be embedded within the PLL culture. “There are no bad ideas. I’ve found that challenging the status quo and thinking creatively have led to our greatest breakthroughs.”

Examples of Rabil’s creative pondering at PLL include offering ownership of players, competitive salaries and higher media exposure. The PLL also introduced a tour and tournament format that reduces costs and increases broadcast opportunities.

Looking ahead, Rabil is concentrated on balance. “Continue to take breaks, breathe, and pay attention to nutrition and fitness,” he said, stressing the importance of staying healthy each physically and mentally. “The journey continues.”