1. “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.”
2. “Winning is a habit; success is a choice.”
3. “The most important quality for a coach is to be a great listener.”
4. “Adversity doesn’t build character, it reveals it.”
5. “If you’re going to be a champion, you have to believe in yourself when no one else will.”
6. “Success happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
7. “It’s not the will to win, but the will to prepare to win that makes the difference.”
8. “Leaders are built in the off-season.”
9. “Talent sets the floor, character sets the ceiling.”
10. “The road to victory is paved with dedication and hard work.”
11. “Success demands singleness of purpose.”
12. “Live in the present, but keep an eye on the future.”
13. “True commitment is staying loyal to what you said you were going to do long after the mood you said it in has left you.”
14. “You win with people, not just programs.”
15. “Don’t just show up; make a statement.”
16. “Perseverance is the key to success.”
17. “No excuses. Excuses are tools of the incompetent.”
18. “Discipline isn’t something you want, it’s something you earn.”
19. “Great teams are built on trust and communication.”
20. “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take, but you have to practice to make the ones you do.”
21. “A team’s courage is determined by the courage of its leaders.”
22. “The harder you work, the harder it is to surrender.”
23. “Victory is sweet, but the journey is sweeter.”
24. “You don’t get ahead by imitating others.”
25. “Dream big, work hard, stay focused.”
26. “Consistency is the hallmark of greatness.”
27. “Good things come to those who hustle.”
28. “Focus on execution, not expectation.”
29. “Risk is the price you pay for opportunity.”
30. “Flexibility can be just as valuable as strength.”
31. “Chess, not checkers: always think your moves ahead.”
32. “Attitude is the small thing that makes a big difference.”
33. “Ego is the enemy of excellence.”
34. “If you want to be a winner, surround yourself with winners.”
35. “Pressure can burst a pipe or make a diamond.”
36. “We rise by lifting others.”
37. “Preparation is the foundation of all success.”
38. “Create a team that is like family.”
39. “One team, one heartbeat.”
40. “A good coach can change a game; a great coach can change a life.”
41. “Believe in the process, not just the result.”
42. “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
43. “In every game of life, commitment is crucial.”
44. “Celebrate the small wins on the way to bigger victories.”
45. “The ultimate measure of a man is where he stands at times of challenge.”
46. “Your legacy lives on in those you inspire.”
47. “Execution eats strategy for breakfast.”
48. “The best teams play with passion and purpose.”
49. “In football and in life, the little things matter.”
50. “Never let the fear of losing keep you from playing the game.”
Jimmy Johnson and Troy Aikman Discuss Football, Fishing, and Life After the NFL
Jimmy Johnson: Hey Troy! It’s been a while since we had a good chat. How have you been, buddy?
Troy Aikman: Jimmy, it’s great to hear from you! I’ve been doing well, enjoying the broadcasting gig. How’s the fishing life treating you?
Jimmy Johnson: Oh, you know me. If I’m not talking football, I’m out there on my boat. Caught a marlin last week that would make your eyes pop!
Troy Aikman: That’s awesome! I’d love to join you sometime. Speaking of boats, let’s dive into some football. What are your thoughts on the current state of the Cowboys?
Jimmy Johnson: Ah, the Cowboys. Well, they’ve got the talent, no doubt about that. But we both know talent alone doesn’t win championships. It’s about heart, preparation, and how you handle those critical moments. Reminds me of our Super Bowl days, right?
Troy Aikman: Absolutely, it’s all about the team dynamics and leadership. Speaking of leadership, you set a pretty high bar, Jimmy. Do you think this generation of coaches has what it takes?
Jimmy Johnson: I believe so, but every coach has to adapt. It’s a different game now, with social media and all. But the fundamentals remain the same—discipline, strategy, and motivating men to give their best.
Troy Aikman: Adapting is key, for sure. So, any advice for young athletes making their way into the NFL from your perspective?
Jimmy Johnson: Keep your head on straight, stay focused, and never get complacent. It’s easy to get distracted by the limelight, but the real champions never lose sight of their goals. And always, always value your team. No one succeeds alone.
Troy Aikman: Wise words, Jimmy. You’ve always been the best at melding football wisdom with life lessons. Speaking of life lessons, any new mantras from your fishing adventures?
Jimmy Johnson: (Laughs) Plenty! Patience, my friend. Whether you’re waiting for the big catch or planning your next move in life, patience and perseverance are key. And sometimes, you just need to enjoy the moment.
Troy Aikman: Sounds like a plan! Let’s set up a fishing trip soon. We can reminisce about the glory days and maybe even catch something big.
Jimmy Johnson: You’re on! Let’s make it happen, partner. It’ll be like old times, just with a few more fish tales to share!
Troy Aikman: Looking forward to it, Jimmy. Here’s to more adventures, both on and off the field.
Jimmy Johnson: Cheers to that, Troy!
