Adversity originates from many sources. It could follow the loss of a big game, failure to get a promotion, a bombed presentation, or losing a business deal to a competitor. More seriously, adversity may result from being fired, significant financial difficulty, the end of a relationship, or serious illness. Regardless of the source, we can […]
posted on May 4, 2017 by
What All Leaders Can Learn from NASCAR
This weekend the NASCAR racing series returns to the Talladega Speedway. Last year I was interviewed by Megan Englehart of Fox Sports about the pressures facing young drivers in the Truck Series elimination race at this track. As the circuit returns to Talladega this year, I’ve reflected on some lessons all leaders can learn from high-pressure events […]
posted on June 29, 2016 by
How Lin-Manuel Miranda Created a Smash Hit: Leadership Lessons
When’s the last time you’ve heard so much buzz about a Broadway musical? Hamilton creator and star Lin-Manuel Miranda has turned a history lesson into a serious case of ticket envy across America. Even before Hamilton was nominated for a record sixteen Tony awards and claimed eleven top prizes, people have been willing to stand in […]
posted on October 4, 2013 by
How Do I Get in the Zone?
You know the feeling. Everything is going your way. The ball goes straight down the fairway every time. Before you hit your shot you KNOW it’s going to be good. The words are rolling off your tongue during the speech or presentation. You have the audience on the edge of their seats. You close the […]
posted on August 16, 2013 by
Radio Interview on the Psychological Aspects of Performance
Enjoyed a great radio interview with Bryce Johnson http://www.unpackinit.com on sport psychology. We discussed a range of topics that also apply to executive coaching and any other performance oriented pursuit. Some of the concepts we discussed include: The importance of psychological skills at the highest level of performance Can mental toughness be learned? How can I […]
posted on October 31, 2012 by
Don’t Waste Your Time With Mission Statements
Many performers have been summoned to a “team building” meeting and asked to create a mission statement for their athletic team, corporate department, non-profit organization, etc. The problem with these meetings (and most forms of team building) is they ultimately turn out to be a waste of valuable time. Performers have been through these types […]
posted on August 1, 2012 by
USA Women’s Gymnastics: A True High-Performance Team
There are numerous articles and books about high-performance teams. I am influenced by these sources and use them in my work with executive and sport teams. However, when you are witnessing a true high-performance team in real time you are emotionally moved and intuitively understand the elements involved. I had that experience while watching the […]
posted on May 21, 2012 by
Excellence Keys: Prepare, Perform, Evaluate
In any performance oriented situation or profession, there are three keys to achieving sustainable excellence. You won’t knock it out of the park on every occasion. Guess what, you’re human! But I’ve found that following this three step process allows performers to achieve consistent excellence over time. Prepare I’m surprised how many executives attend important […]
posted on April 24, 2012 by
Treat Every Meeting As A Performance
Most senior leaders have worked in their organizations or professions for long periods of time. They are often very comfortable with the individuals and/or situations they encounter in most meetings. This can lead to a casual mentality towards meetings, treating them more as conversations rather than performances. In reality, every time you enter a meeting […]
posted on April 6, 2012 by
Are You Motivated By Ego?
If you are a performer it’s key to understand why you choose to compete. If you are managing or coaching performers it’s even more important to understand what motivates them in order to lead effectively. Research has identified two primary motivations for individuals who enter into the world of competition. They are ego and mastery. […]