This past weekend, I was watching my son play ball hockey, and it reminded me of how similar it was to project management. Project management, like ball hockey, is all about staying focused, adapting to the action, and seizing opportunities when they arise. Whether you’re on the pavement chasing a bright orange ball or in a meeting room steering a project towards success, the same principles apply: keep your eye on the ball, move where the action is, and take your shots—because if you don’t shoot, you can’t score.
Keep Your Eye on the Ball
In ball hockey, losing track of the ball for even a second can mean missing a crucial pass or letting an opponent take control. In project management, the “ball” represents the project’s objectives, deadlines, and deliverables. You must always be aware of where things stand, what the risks are, and how progress is shaping up. If you get distracted by too many side issues, you risk losing momentum and control.
A good project manager, like a skilled hockey player, constantly scans the field, anticipates obstacles, and stays locked onto the key priorities to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Move to Where the Action Is
Standing still in ball hockey doesn’t get you anywhere. The game is dynamic, and if you want to be involved, you have to move with the play. Project management is no different. You can’t just sit back and wait for updates to come to you—you have to actively engage with stakeholders, address roadblocks, and ensure everyone is aligned with the project’s goals.
Successful project managers anticipate changes, step in when needed, and adapt their strategy based on real-time developments. Just like in hockey, you need to hustle, communicate, and position yourself strategically to make an impact.
Take the Shot
Not every shot in ball hockey results in a goal, but that doesn’t mean you stop shooting. The same goes for project management—some initiatives will succeed, while others might miss the mark. However, if you hesitate too long or avoid taking risks, you miss out on potential wins.
Good project managers make informed decisions and take calculated risks. They encourage their teams to test new approaches, learn from failures, and refine their strategies. Progress isn’t made by playing it safe—it’s made by taking action and adjusting as needed.
Final Whistle
Both ball hockey and project management require focus, agility, and a willingness to take chances. If you keep your eye on the ball, stay engaged in the action, and take your shots, you’ll increase your chances of success—whether that’s scoring the winning goal or delivering a project on time and within scope. So, lace up your sneakers, grab your stick (or your Gantt chart), and get in the game!
