The Day My Daughter’s Cheer Team Shocked Everyone — Including Me

This past weekend my youngest daughter’s high school cheer team won their very first competition since she’s been on the squad — and she’s a junior! 

To say this win was hard-earned is an understatement.

Here’s the thing....her high school team is not nearly as competitive or high-level (skill-wise) as her all-star team. They have great resources and incredible coaches, but the buy-in and dedication to the craft just hasn’t always been the same. And winning? Let’s just say it’s been elusive.

But yesterday, everything clicked.

Despite weeks of high school girl drama (IYKYK), the team LOCKED IN. They worked together. They trusted their coaches. They gave their all — and it paid off! Not only did they win, but they were also recognized publicly for their sportsmanship, enthusiastically cheering on every other team in the gym.

And you should have seen them afterwards... cutting up, dancing, and singing. They weren’t just celebrating the trophy — they were celebrating each other. They were having FUN, the kind of joy that sometimes feels lost in today’s high-stress, social-media-fueled, always-on-the-go youth culture. It was pure, simple, contagious joy — the way it shouldbe.

And that right there is the lesson:

• Buy-in matters. Talent and resources are important, but if you don’t have full buy-in from the team, results will always fall short.
• Lock in when it counts. When distractions fade and focus sharpens, BIG things happen.
• Culture shows. It’s not just about winning — it’s about how you show up for others, too. Sportsmanship matters in cheer… and in business.
• Joy fuels performance. When you actually enjoy what you’re doing and find fun in the process, the energy shifts. Teams loosen up, stress fades, and success comes more naturally. (Am I right, or am I right Lawrence Sprung, CFP® and Denise Milano Sprung ??

As advisors, leaders, and entrepreneurs, we face the same crossroads every day. Are we BOUGHT IN? Are we LOCKED IN? Are we creating a culture where people cheer for each other — and, even the competition?

Because that’s where the real wins happen.

So here’s my challenge to you this week:

👉 Where can you leave the drama behind, work together, and create a win...not just for yourself, but for your whole team?

Always in your corner,

Kristin

P.S. - Can't you just FEEL their excitement?