That's right! It takes goals to score - according to basketball legend Jerry West as he addressed the graduating class of West Virginia University on Sunday. (Editor's note: I am the proud father of Anneliese Cutler, my daughter and graduate of the 2006 class of the Mountaineers!).

Jerry speaks with a voice of experience. With humble roots, Jerry rose out of Appalachia to become the greatest Mountaineer to represent the State of West Virginia. As a youngster, Jerry would play basketball on the dirt court in his yard day and night, dreaming of hitting the big shot at the end of the game to lead his team to victory.

And boy, did his dream come true! Jerry was focused. Jerry had a vision and goal - to become a star basketball player. Setting out on his goal, Jerry carried his high school team to the state champship in his senior year, earning West Virginia basketball player of the year, and All-American honors.

Jerry went on to become a two-time college All-American, 1960 Olympic champion, 14-time NBA All-Star, all-time leading scorer for the Los Angeles Lakers, and member of the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame.

My take away from hearing Jerry speak this past weekend - set your goals, be a fighter, stay focus, and the future is yours. You control your destiny! Do you know where you want to go? If you don't then how do you know when you arrive?

Implementing Jerry's message and wisdom is a must for every business leader - you must set goals to win.

Pierre Cutler
The Sacramento Executive