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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! |
