If you’ve ever watched Ted Lasso, you know he’s not your typical leader. He’s positive, patient, and fiercely believes in the people around him even when things get tough. Honestly, if Ted Lasso were looking for a side hustle, he would make an amazing RA. Being a student leader means facing hard conversations, supporting your community, and sometimes staying upbeat even when it’s not easy. Ted’s wisdom can help you do just that. Here are some of our favorite Ted Lasso quotes and what they can teach you about being an awesome RA or student staff member.
1. “Be curious, not judgmental.”
When you’re helping residents through roommate conflicts, policy violations, or personal struggles, it’s easy to jump to conclusions. Ted reminds us to ask questions first.
Instead of judging a resident’s behavior, try getting curious about why they acted that way. You might find out there’s more to the story and it’ll make your conversations way more productive.
How to use it:
- Ask open-ended questions like, “Can you tell me more about what happened?”
- Listen to understand, not just to respond.
2. “I believe in hope. I believe in Believe.”
Yes, it sounds cheesy, but it’s powerful. As an RA, you sometimes have to be the person who believes in a resident when they’re struggling to believe in themselves.
Maybe it’s a first-year student who feels homesick. Maybe it’s a senior stressing about jobs. Your faith in them (even a little bit) can be the boost they need to keep going.
How to use it:
- Offer encouragement, even if you don’t have all the answers.
- Remind residents (and yourself) that tough times don’t last forever.
3. “You know what the happiest animal on Earth is? It’s a goldfish. You know why? It’s got a 10-second memory. Be a goldfish.”
You’re going to make mistakes this year. Your residents are going to mess up too. And that’s okay.
The important part? Don’t dwell on it. Learn, move forward, and keep doing your best.
How to use it:
- After a tough moment, take a breath and reset.
- Encourage residents to forgive themselves (and each other) too.
4. “Doing the right thing is never the wrong thing.”
In residence life, you’ll sometimes feel torn between what’s easy and what’s right. Maybe it’s confronting a friend about a policy violation. Maybe it’s standing up for a resident who feels left out.
Ted’s advice? Do the right thing, even when it’s hard. Integrity matters.
How to use it:
- Trust your training and values when you’re unsure what to do.
- Remember: Your actions can set the tone for your whole community.
5. “Success is not about the wins and losses. It’s about helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves, on and off the field.”
Okay, you’re not coaching a soccer team, but you are building a community. Success as an RA isn’t about being perfect or making everyone happy all the time. It’s about helping your residents grow socially, emotionally, and personally.
How to use it:
- Celebrate small wins, like a resident making a new friend or stepping outside their comfort zone.
- Focus on growth, not just outcomes.
6. “I promise you there is something worse out there than being sad, and that’s being alone and being sad.”
Sometimes the residents you work with will feel down, and you might not be able to “fix” it and that’s okay. Just being there for them can make a huge difference.
How to use it:
- Check in on residents even when they seem okay.
- Let people know they’re not alone, even in tough times.
Final Thoughts
Ted Lasso’s leadership style is all about heart. And that’s exactly what makes a great RA or student leader. By staying curious, believing in your residents, forgiving mistakes, doing the right thing, focusing on growth, and being present you’ll build a community that feels like home. So channel your inner Ted Lasso this year. Believe in your residents, your team, and yourself. We believe in you too.
Adapted from: 5 Quotes That Show Ted Lasso Would Make an Excellent Residence Director &
6 Quotes from Ted Lasso That Speak To Residence Life Pros
