Mental Fitness for Peak
Performance
In my latest Fast Co article, 10 Patterns in Our
Continuously Disruptive World, I lay out some of the trends
business leaders are dealing with and learning to leverage. Here I
want to draw your attention to #2: Game changing is a way of life,
not a once-in-a-lifetime event. When paradigms are constantly
shifting, it is time to become an expert in the art of shifting.
This means changing from a sprint mentality (going all out and then
taking a rest) to a marathon attitude (refueling while in motion).
Here are two things you can do to get this right:
1. Train your mind to be your
ally. Every endurance athlete knows the power of the mind to
help or hinder. Mental rehearsal and visualization are powerful
tools. Positive self-talk, especially when things are challenging
can make all the difference - it literally provides the guiderails
required to keep energy up and discipline strong when doubt is
tempting or distracting. In the most difficult situations attitude
is often the differentiator between those who finish and those who
do not. Build the stamina to keep your mind on the prize and your
brain can become your buddy in the whitewater of continuous
change.
2. Keep your eyes on the next
curve in the road. I recently took a racing lesson and had
the chance to drive with a professional driver sitting in the seat
next to me, guiding me as I applied both gas and brake. With his
expert support I drove much more aggressively than I would have on
my own. He taught me to always focus on the next major curve. Hands
and feet go where the eyes are trained. Yet, it feels
counter-intuitive. I wanted instead to lift my gaze and watch for
hazards. However, that led me to losing control. When my eyes
stayed glued to the target, my speed and control exceeded my
expectations.
Interesting that some of the big secrets to change are in the
mental game, eh? But, when it comes to excellence why should high
business performers be any different than professional athletes? Do
what Olympians do: train your
brain, too! |