Jim Finks Quotes

Powerful Jim Finks for Daily Growth

About Jim Finks

Jim Finks, born on October 13, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, was an American football executive who made significant contributions to the sport as a coach, general manager, and team president. His career spanned over three decades, but he is perhaps best known for his work with the St. Louis Cardinals (now Arizona Cardinals) and the New Orleans Saints. Finks' love for sports emerged early in life. He played college football at the University of Detroit and served as an assistant coach there after graduation. His professional coaching career began in 1954 when he joined the staff of the Chicago Bears, where he would spend the next 17 years, rising through the ranks to become the defensive coordinator. In 1969, Finks moved to the front office as the Bears' general manager, a role he held until 1974 when he was named the president of the Cardinals. During his tenure with the Cardinals, Finks drafted Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Hart and made shrewd trades that brought players like Mel Gray, Tommy Lewis, and Larry Stallings to the team. In 1986, Finks became the general manager of the New Orleans Saints, leading them to their first-ever playoff appearance in 1987. His tenure was cut short by a heart attack in 1988, but his impact on the Saints' franchise remains significant. Jim Finks passed away on June 24, 1988, at the age of 61. He is remembered not only for his achievements in football but also for his integrity and dedication to his teams. His quotes often reflect his strategic thinking and passion for the game: "You're always looking for one guy who can change a game," and "A good coach will make his players see what they can be rather than what they are."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The secret is not in finding the right people. The secret is in understanding what you have and using it."

This quote suggests that instead of constantly searching for resources or talent externally, one should focus on effectively utilizing the resources they already possess. It implies that potential lies within ourselves and our current circumstances, and success often depends on how well we can maximize the use of these resources rather than seeking perfection through external acquisitions.


"In a game you can win, you need to learn how not to lose."

This quote suggests that in any competition or endeavor where success is possible, it's crucial to understand the strategies for avoiding failure rather than solely focusing on winning. Mastering the art of prevention can significantly increase chances of success as it equips one with the skills to navigate potential obstacles and pitfalls. It implies that a mindset centered around not losing can lead to a more robust understanding of the game or task at hand, making one more resilient, adaptable, and ultimately more likely to win in the long run.


"Everyone wants to build a ship; nobody wants to carry water."

This quote by Jim Finks highlights the human tendency to desire the glamourous aspects of achieving a goal, such as building a ship (a symbol for a large-scale project or ambition), but not wanting to handle the necessary, often mundane tasks involved in making it successful, like carrying water (representing hard work, perseverance, and the less glamorous daily efforts required). It serves as a reminder that true success often comes from diligence, persistence, and embracing the sometimes unpleasant responsibilities that lead to great achievements.


"A good decision is based on knowledge and not on numbers."

The quote by Jim Finks emphasizes the importance of knowledge over raw data or statistics when making decisions. It suggests that while numerical data can provide insights, it's crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the context, implications, and potential consequences before arriving at a decision. In other words, the quality and depth of knowledge should guide our choices more than mere numbers.


"You can't have a great team if you don't have great people in key positions."

This quote emphasizes that building a successful or great team is contingent upon having exceptional individuals occupying critical roles. In other words, having the right people in strategic positions within an organization or group is essential for achieving team success. These key individuals will likely be responsible for driving innovation, leading projects, and making crucial decisions, so their skills, expertise, and mindset are vital to overall team performance. A strong team composed of great people in key roles will not only function effectively but also contribute to the organization's long-term growth and success.


It's grossly unfair to judge Walter Payton solely on the yards he gains. He is a complete football player, better than Jim Brown, better than O.J. Simpson.

- Jim Finks

Football Player, Jim Brown, Jim

The guy who enters pro sports hasn't run scared from the 7th grade on. Until he enters the pros, it's been nothing but roses.

- Jim Finks

Sports, Nothing, Been, Roses

The last thing the NFL wants to do is make problems for the colleges.

- Jim Finks

Last, Colleges, Wants, NFL

I operate by the seat of my pants.

- Jim Finks

Pants, Seat, Operate

They called Bill Parcells 'conservative' when he was winning two Super Bowls.

- Jim Finks

Winning, Conservative, Super, Bowls

I think I have good judgment.

- Jim Finks

Think, Judgment, I Think, Good Judgment

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