Mia san Mia
What we can learn from the ethics code of Germany’s best soccer club.
We are who we are. Bayern München has always been one of the strongest teams throughout history, but few know about their even stronger code of unity.
The phrase “Mia san mia” is Bayern’s motto, a Bavarian variation of “wir sind wir”, and roughly translates to “we are who we are” in English. But the sixteen tenets of this code truly establish the philosophy which Bayern encourages their players, staff, and fans by which to live. Even if you do not follow soccer, or prefer another club, there may be lessons to be learned.
Mia san ein Verein: We are one club. Everyone part of the Bayern family holds stake in the club’s history, and everyone is responsible for holding the right values. Similarly, despite the gaps we may have as citizens of different countries, different cultures, different practices, we are at the end of the day, one human race. Choose to see the good when you can.
Mia san Botschafter: We are ambassadors. The ways in which fans, players, and staff alike conduct themselves builds the image of the club, and everyone is responsible for contributing towards a respectable atmosphere. Remember that the institutions you stand for, whether that be of religion, business, or something else entirely, look to you as couriers of their message. Do so respectfully, and recognize that others may hold other beliefs.
Mia san Vorbilder: We are role models. Older players, older fans, and older staff are role models to the younger generation who will one day carry on the Bayern legacy. It is therefore important to lead those who look up to us down the right path, and instill in them the right values. Even if you think no one is watching, your actions can still inspire others to do the right thing.
Mia san Tradition: We are tradition. Everyone in the Bayern family should be proud of the team’s tradition and history, and for the values for which it stands. Bayern, for example, loudly voiced its opposition to the Nazi regime during World War II, and always sought to maintain a diverse and open atmosphere welcoming to all. Troubling times draw divisions between groups, but in times of crisis, the wise build bridges and the foolish build walls.
Mia san Innovation: We are innovation. As the world evolves, so should Bayern, always remaining at the forefront of positive change and delivering to philanthropy, sports, and tradition. Recognize that progress has its good and bad; choosing to guide it rather than hinder it will ensure that good traditional values can coexist with good modern ones.
Mia san Selbstvertrauen: We are self-belief. Everyone should hold high expectations of themselves, and should always aim high and dream big. Allow your inner child to inspire your visions.
Mia san grenzenlos: We are diversity. The Bayern family is welcoming to all, no matter their race, religion, or beliefs. The most important thing is only to hold good values. There are differences amongst us all, and we shouldn’t ignore them. Rather, let’s embrace what makes each of us, each of our cultures, unique, and choose to expand our worldview and learn new things.
Mia san Fußball: We are football. At the end of it, Bayern is a football team. And thus it is important to pay homage to the sport and those who made it possible. Outside of soccer, realize that we all stand on the shoulders of great men, women, and others. Let’s build on their legacies so that future generations may stand upon our shoulders.
Mia san Respekt: We are respect. In order for Bayern to be successful, fostering respect between all members is crucial, the best example being veteran coach Jupp Heynckes’ revitalization of his downtrodden players a few seasons ago. Similarly, as leaders, we can choose to build up or put down our teams. Choose the former.
Mia san Freude: We are joy. The joy of football reigns in all players’ and fans’ hearts, but it is important to make sure that even in defeat, we do not spoil the joy of the other team. No one wins every time. No one gets everything he or she wants. Rather, accept defeat gracefully.
Mia san Treue: We are loyal. Loyalty is a two-way street, from fans who encourage players to reach their potentials, as well as players to encourage fans to be their best. Respect those who have helped you achieve your goals, and pay it forward to help someone else achieve theirs.
Mia san Partner: We are partners. Through both victory and defeat, the Bayern family is one and will support each of its members. Stay loyal and have faith in others.
Mia san Heimat: We are home-loving. Bayern Munich, from Munich, will always continue to represent its city well and contribute to its well-being. Similarly, don’t lose a sense of home, wherever and whatever that might be, and however it may be defined, but don’t be afraid to explore.
Mia san Motor: We are dynamic. Bayern will always lead at the forefront of positive change, driving for a more innovative future, but never forgetting its core values. Adapt to the times, but stay grounded in your ideals. Accept change when it is time to learn, but don’t be afraid to be the one person who can stand up to the group.
Mia san Verantwortung: We are responsibility. Everyone has a responsibility to set expectations for themselves, the club, and others, and to accept things for the way they are. In other words, victory should be celebrated, but defeat should not result in pointing fingers; defeat is only a mechanism by which to learn and improve.
Mia san Familie: We are family. The most important value, a Bayern member should always remember that family comes first.
Together, these sixteen values form the core of Bayern philosophy. Bayern has always cherished honor in its conduct and representation, and striven to make a great impact on society and culture. As fans, staff, and players for the club, and even just as individuals, it is our responsibility and privilege to continue the legacy and inspire the next generation to do the same, everything from Bayern’s history of strength to its history of giving back and helping others. But most importantly, these tenets transcend team borders, and at their very core, tell of being a good sport and a good person, holding football to its highest standard while making a difference in the world around.
Mia san mia.
