It’s football season and author Patrick Ibarra uses it as a backdrop for the October 2012 PM cover story “Create Your Own Leadership Playbook,” where he lists these 10 practices used by successful leaders:

1. Craft a game plan.
2. Think offense.
3. Call your plays.
4. Check your x’s and o’s—the actions team members will take to execute your plays.
5. Stay on top of defense.
6. Develop an environment in which team players will thrive.
7. Pay attention to the playing field.
8. Celebrate your touchdown but stay focused on your competencies.
9. Stay in touch with your fans.
10. Acknowledge the importance of tailgating—team spirit in other words.

For specifics on each practice and to put points on your leadership scoreboard, read the October PM.