We’re in the middle of another exciting college football season, and two programs that have struggled of late are doing better this year. I’m speaking of Michigan and Notre Dame, the two winningest programs in college football history. Their recent experiences can serve as a lesson to us all.

Both schools have proud traditions, terrific facilities, and rich and powerful alumni. Yet both schools lost momentum in recent years. You might even say that with respect to their win-loss records, growth stalled. They had to question all of their assumptions, adjust their style of play to the changing dynamics of the college game, and once again find their nerve. But while they were willing to re-examine all of the non-essentials, some things they were unwilling to change.

Way back in 1969 new Michigan head coach Bo Schembechler hung a sign in the locker room that read, “Those who stay will be champions.” The sign was meant to reflect the fact that living up to the proud Michigan tradition wouldn’t be easy, but it would be worthwhile.

Similarly, every Saturday as the Notre Dame players exit the locker room to take the field, the last thing they do is touch the sign that says, “Play like a champion today.” Nobody knows the exact origin of the statement, but legendary coach Lou Holtz had it put up to remind his players what was expected of them.

Those who stay will be champions–a reminder to all of us that while business can be brutal at times, perseverance will pay off. Play like a champion today–encouragement that no matter how difficult things get, our job is simply to do our absolute best.

Sports are a great metaphor for life, and both Notre Dame and Michigan have proven their staying power over generations. I’m confident that both will again be at the top of their games soon. Perhaps by following their advice, our companies can be as well.