Is Ted Lasso the Best Leader?

My husband and I just started rewatching Ted Lasso (for maybe the sixth time?) after a recent conversation with some friends and colleagues about the enneagram types of the characters and a debate about whether or not Season 2 is intended to highlight each one!

If you have watched the show and are involved even slightly in the HR world - you’ve probably seen the recent trend hyping up Ted’s leadership style for the corporate world. It’s hard to argue that he’s not an incredible leader - the goldfish analogy, the BELIEVE sign, giving incredibly personal and thoughtful gifts, his unwavering positivity and optimism, his ability to build trust and loyalty through genuine relationships, the way he embraces vulnerability and seeks help when needed, his knack for empowering others and recognizing their potential, and his consistent use of humor and playfulness to create a positive team culture (“you tore your butt, son” will never not make me laugh).

The show is famous for highlighting the impact of Ted Lasso as a leader for the Richmond Greyhounds. Also highlighted in the show is Dani Rojas - one of Ted Lasso’s star players - and he has a mantra: “Football is life”

This is where our corporate analogy needs to stop.

Coding, logistics, facilitation, consulting (insert your job here) isn't—and shouldn't be—LIFE.

Work is a significant part of our lives, but it shouldn't define our entire existence, ever. Instead, let's take a page from Ted's playbook (heh) and strive to create work environments that are supportive, engaging, and filled with opportunities for growth and play through psychological safety, inclusion, flexibility/autonomy, and mission. By integrating these principles, we can build workplaces that not only foster productivity but also enhance our overall well-being by providing individual personal fulfillment.

Are you ready to bring a bit of Ted Lasso's magic to your workplace? Let's connect and explore how we can transform your organization with PlayfulWorkDesign.