Life is like a game of Rugby

 Tackled by Life? Maybe It’s Time to Play a Bit of Rugby.

How to Lead—and Win—Without Losing Yourself.

You can’t always sit back and hope the universe will sort itself out in your favour. You can’t always be the one who smiles at everyone, says “please” and “thank you” like it’s a full-time job, and ends every conversation with a compliment and a nod.

Yes, humility is noble. Yes, politeness matters. But let’s not pretend this world automatically rewards the good-hearted—especially in leadership.

Some people are dealt aces. Others get the seven of spades and a joker. Some people break the rules and still win. Life isn’t fair. And neither is the workplace.

I know this because I used to be timid. Quiet. Polite. Unsure of myself. I thought if I worked hard and stayed nice, opportunity would come knocking.

It didn’t. Not at first.

Here’s the truth: people can sense weakness. Not always intentionally, but instinctively. And in high-stakes environments, it’s like blood in the water. If you don’t stand strong, they’ll walk all over you—or worse, they’ll never see you at all.

If you want to lead, you can’t afford to be seen as a pushover.

That doesn’t mean becoming cold or arrogant. It means building quiet strength. A spine that doesn’t buckle. A self-worth that isn’t constantly up for debate.

Life’s a lot like rugby. And no, I don’t play it. But I’ve watched enough to know it’s chaos and courage rolled into one. It’s not about who looks the part—it’s about who stands their ground.

That’s leadership. That’s life.

If you don’t define who you are, someone else will—usually to your disadvantage.

So speak up. Set boundaries. Own your value. Say “no” when needed. Push back when you must. Even when it’s uncomfortable. Especially then.

You can be kind and still have edge. You can lead with heart and still have backbone. If you don’t, people may take your decency for weakness—and once that happens, it’s hard to undo.

Leadership isn’t about being liked. It’s about being respected. Not loud, not aggressive—just solid.

You weren’t made to shrink. You weren’t made to disappear to keep others comfortable.

So be brave. Be bold. Be clear about what you stand for—and what you won’t stand for. That’s how leaders rise: through character, not charm.

Think of life like rugby. You will get knocked down. Just make sure you get back up—muddy, winded, teeth intact—but stronger.

Because this world won’t always protect the gentle. But it will respect the strong.

And if you want to lead, that’s where it starts—not with noise, but with nerve.