I had the incredible opportunity to work with one of Australia’s top NRL teams, the Penrith Panthers, during their pre-season camp. Known for their consistent high performance, they embody a level of intensity and dedication that’s truly inspiring. I designed a tailored one-day team offsite for them, and while we covered a lot, one particular leadership lesson from that day stood out. It’s a simple, yet profound truth that applies just as much to the boardroom as it does to the rugby field: high energy is a non-negotiable ingredient for success.
When the Plan Goes Out the Window, Energy Steps In
Pre-season camps are designed to push athletes to their limits. They’re intense, demanding, and often unpredictable by design. For the Panthers, our tailored offsite was no different. The team arrived not knowing exactly what the day held. There was an intentional element of uncertainty woven into the activities – a common thread in any high-stakes environment, whether it’s an expedition to the poles or a critical business pivot.
What truly struck me was their response to this ambiguity. Instead of leaning away from the unknown, or letting uncertainty breed apprehension, the team leaned in. Their collective energy and willingness to embrace whatever came next created an atmosphere that was not just positive, but palpable.
Why Enthusiasm is Essential in Any Project
Think about it: in any challenging scenario – a new project, a market disruption, an unforeseen obstacle – how a team shows up mentally and emotionally can be the deciding factor. The Panthers demonstrated this perfectly. Their high energy wasn’t just about being loud or boisterous; it was a deep-seated enthusiasm, a readiness to engage, and a proactive posture towards whatever was thrown their way.
This isn’t about forced positivity. It’s about a choice. A choice to bring a certain level of intent and vitality to the task at hand, especially when the path forward isn’t entirely clear.
Here’s what I observed, and what I believe this means for any corporate team:
- It fuels adaptability – When energy is high, teams are more fluid. They can pivot faster, brainstorm more creatively, and find solutions more effectively because they’re not bogged down by inertia or resistance.
- It builds momentum – Enthusiasm is contagious. One person’s positive energy can uplift the entire team, creating a virtuous cycle that pushes everyone forward.
- It cuts through uncertainty – When there’s no clear roadmap, a team’s collective energy can act as a driving force. It provides the internal “push” needed to explore new avenues and embrace the uncomfortable.
- It strengthens cohesion – Shared high energy in the face of the unknown creates a powerful bond. It reinforces that “we’re in this together,” fostering trust and camaraderie.
Bring That Energy to Your Business
The lesson from the Penrith Panthers is clear: enthusiasm and high energy aren’t soft skills; they’re strategic assets. In a world of constant change and uncertainty, the ability of a team to collectively lean into the unknown with vigour can set them apart. It creates an environment where challenges are met with creativity, and setbacks are seen as opportunities for growth.
So, how can you encourage this kind of energy in your team? Start by modeling it yourself. Encourage open-mindedness to new ideas, celebrate courageous efforts, and create a culture where leaning into uncertainty with enthusiasm is rewarded.
Just as I worked with the Penrith Panthers to enhance their collective strength, MyAdventure Group specialises in transforming teams through immersive offsite experiences. We equip leaders and teams with the practical tools and mindset needed to navigate uncertainty with high energy and achieve the impossible.
BOOK A FREE 20-MIN CONSULTATION and let’s explore how we can ignite your team’s potential.
