You Have To Hear The Story Behind Ben Johnson’s Famous Rallying Cry

“Good, better, best. Never let it rest. ‘Til your good gets better, and your better gets best.” Those are the now-famous words head coach Ben Johnson chanted to the Chicago Bears locker room after he won his first game against the Dallas Cowboys last month. It was something most fans had never heard before. Most previous coaches rambled on for a few minutes, congratulating players and telling them what they needed to do for next week. Johnson seemed intent on getting the guys fired up about their accomplishment while reminding them that there is always room for improvement.

The interesting question that remained unanswered was where Johnson got it. He was finally asked during his Friday press conference. It turns out this is something he experienced in high school. Johnson was the quarterback for A.C. Reynolds in Asheville, North Carolina. It was something the football team did after every game, constantly pushing players to improve. You can’t say it doesn’t work. The program had a protracted run of consistent success going back 25-30 years. That included Johnson’s junior year when he led the team to a state championship. It’s little wonder he embraced the rally cry.

Ben Johnson understands the importance of psychology.

Yes, these aren’t high school players he’s dealing with in the Bears locker room. Even so, nothing about the chant can be considered amateur or cringeworthy. It is short, easy to remember, and carries the weight of a good message. You did well this time. Now do better the next time. If things unfold that way, the result should be what you want, be it a championship or anything else in life. It’s a good lesson. Ben Johnson isn’t droning on lecturing guys. He wants them to know they can always be better. Smart head coaches always find different ways to communicate that exact message. Everybody from Lombardi to Noll, Walsh, Reid, and Belichick has said a variation of it.

The moment you’re satisfied is the moment your success dies. Never stop striving for more. It has felt like the Bears haven’t had that mindset in a long time.