I didn’t invent the concept of Next Play—far from it. I first read about it back in 1999 in Leading with the Heart by Coach K, and I saw its true power firsthand when I worked for Coach Mike Jones at DeMatha from 2010 to 2016. But even though I didn’t create it, Next Play has become the most impactful mindset I’ve ever applied to my own life.
I talk about it in every keynote I deliver—it’s one of my fundamental principles. But when I first started speaking, I had moments of hesitation. I felt a brief wave of imposter syndrome—who was I to talk about a concept I didn’t originate? That doubt led me to an important question: What’s more important—coming up with something new, or paying forward something true?
At the end of the day, I’ve found peace in being a curator, not a creator. I don’t need to reinvent the wheel—I just need to share the wisdom and experiences that I know can be transformational. And I’ve seen firsthand how the Next Play mentality can change lives, because I live it every single day.
Next Play in Everyday Life
Life throws inconveniences and annoyances at us all the time. So what do you do when:
- Your child misses the game-winning shot? Move to the Next Play.
- You spill coffee on your shirt before a big meeting? Move to the Next Play.
- Your flight gets canceled? Move to the Next Play.
- Your Uber Eats order is wrong? Move to the Next Play.
- You get passed over for a promotion? Move to the Next Play.
- Your dog chews up your favorite pair of sneakers? Move to the Next Play.
To be clear—I don’t want these things to happen. I don’t like when they happen. And I find them just as frustrating, annoying, and disappointing as anyone else.
But here’s the reality—my feelings don’t change what’s already happened. Resisting reality is a losing battle 100% of the time. So instead of wasting energy on frustration, I take a deep breath, smile, and move to the Next Play.
Next Play in the Bigger Moments
The Next Play mindset isn’t just about handling life’s daily inconveniences—it’s just as powerful for navigating major life transitions.
- When your kids move out and you become an empty nester… what will be your Next Play?
- When a long-term relationship or marriage ends… what will be your Next Play?
- When you burn out at your job and need a change… what will be your Next Play?
- When you become eligible to retire… what will be your Next Play?
- When someone you love passes away… what will be your Next Play?
In these moments, Next Play isn’t just about moving forward quickly—it’s about choosing a thoughtful, purposeful, and intentional response to life’s changes. It’s about recognizing that every setback, every disappointment, and every transition is an opportunity to shape what comes next.
So no matter what challenges you’re facing—big or small—take a breath, accept reality, and move to the Next Play. Because that’s where your growth, your resilience, and your next great opportunity begin.
