What if you had access to a resource that combined research, over two decades of industry experience, and the power of storytelling to help you inspire others, develop genuine connections, and stand out amongst your peers as a great teammate and an effective leader? What if a simple parable could help you to understand that a truly impactful, lasting presence in your profession involves having more than intelligence, degrees, certifications, or licenses?
The Intent Is To Grow is a fictional tale about a young coach, Nathan Day, who is beginning his new role at a major university. Upon his arrival on campus, he embarks on a week-long, life-altering orientation program. He meets with a group of mentors that contribute to his long-term professional development in the most remarkable ways. They each have creative tools and methods to teach him a comprehensive set of interpersonal skills called the “6 True Pro Attributes.”
HERE IS WHAT THEY ARE SAYING:
"This book captures the essence of what it can be like as a young professional in the performance field. The simple principles The Intent Is To Grow teaches can be applied at all levels of sport and every personal and professional setting. Jesse has created an awesome sense of reality with his characters and situations. The Intent Is To Grow is a must read!”
- Dwight Daub, Veteran NBA Strength & Conditioning Coach
- 2009 NBA Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year
"Within 76ers Athlete Care, the largest department on the team, we conducted 360 teammate evaluations. Jesse Wright was hands-down the top rated teammate. I knew he was a true professional. However, until I read The Intent Is To Grow, I didn't realize how he achieved his successes – through six critical skills: Voice – Hustle – Soul – Leadership – Vision – Versatility. The Intent Is To Grow is a powerful user's manual and guide for any leader and teammate. The sooner in your career you read and implement its insight, the better! ”
- Rob Newson, PhD (Leadership Studies)
- Former VP of Strategy and Vision - Philadelphia 76ers
- 30 year career as US Navy Seal
"One of the most applicable and impactful reads for anyone, not just in the human performance space, but anyone looking to become a better leader in general. I have made this a must read for our entire company. Jesse does a brilliant job demonstrating the tools needed to be the best version of yourself and delivers one 'nugget of wisdom' after another. Most importantly, he delivers these learnings in a captivating and thoroughly enjoyable book.”
- Travis McDonough, President - Movella Canada
- VP of Business Development, Sports and Health
"Such a unique narrative that powerfully portrays some key lessons we can all benefit from learning.”
- Oliver Finlay, PhD
- Founder & Managing Partner - Beautiful Game Group
- Sports Industry Consultant
"I highly recommend The Intent Is To Grow! There's no better way to understand the "6 True Pro Attributes" than seeing them applied in action through a story. A must read at any level and an easy one too – personally, I'm a fan of the short chapters. Thanks for sharing these pearls!”
- Michael Quintans, PT, DPT, OCS
- Physical Therapist & Business Owner
"I love how this book was written. It contained amazing information with characters that made the book fun. I feel it is a must read for anyone who works in a locker room with athletes at any level. Great job!”
- Dr. Neil Leibman, DO, Chiropractor
"All in all, this book was so enjoyable. Really felt like the story and the characters played into the message perfectly. I also really liked the short chapters! For some reason, the shorter chapters made the book more 'addicting' and I was able to knock it out in a little over a week! Definitely going to buy some copies as gifts for my friends. Fun read and I learned quite a bit!"
- Paril Bhakta, Strength & Conditioning Coach
VOICE
Nate is invited to sit in on a lecture by Dr. Luc Stemme, an internationally-respected communications expert and university professor. He is introduced to a game-changing analogy and model that speaks to the importance of strong communication skills, crafting the most effective message and pathway in which it gets delivered, and how adjusting your approach based on the audience is critical.
HUSTLE
Rashard Lethus, Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach, has learned and experienced firsthand what it takes to rise through the ranks in coaching at the Division I level. He introduces Nate to “Hustle & Pro,” his list of 12 practical strategies and actions that can help young professionals earn respect right away and stand out amongst their peers despite being new to their roles.
SOUL
When Morgan Alma began her role as Associate Athletic Director for Academic Support, she knew that to do her job well, she was going to have to develop strong connections with both her staff and the student-athletes. She imparts all that she has learned to Nate, including details and research regarding empathy and compassion, real-world examples of how the university staff goes above and beyond, and her caring and imaginative interpretation of a person’s soul.
LEADERSHIP
Retired Athletic Director Hank Eldridge has seen tremendous growth in the athletic department in his five decades of service at the university. An accomplished leader and devoted Grandfather, he uses a charming allegory to communicate to Nate all the important elements of transformational leadership and a servant-based approach in high performance environments.
VISION
Nate meets Brian Swain, Associate Athletic Director for Strategic Communications, at a local playground for one of the most exciting meetings he has ever had. Swain uses a children’s game, sports analogies, and a 1980’s movie reference to teach Nate all about the literature and research behind self-awareness, cultural awareness, and how the combination of the two can deliver big-time results throughout a career.
VERSATILITY
Jen Uralis, Director of Women’s Basketball Operations, shares her affinity for podcasts to introduce Nate to the benefits of a ”Generalist” mentality. They speak about how versatility makes for a great teammate, the advantages of ”width over depth” early in a career, and how having a flexible & re-deployable skillset can lead to big-time opportunities and success.
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