There is something very motivating when we see a sports team perform at their best. A certain anticipation of wanting to either play with them, for them or so much so, become them. Take the example of Serena Williams, Kobe Bryant and Michael Phelps. What do they have in common? They are all high performers in their field and show commitment throughout their journey to success. With no exception, the same applies in a workplace with our professional careers.
Let’s explore 4 practical insights as to how athletes who work at PwC translate their high performance approach in sport throughout the workplace.
High performing teams:
- Fuel their minds
- Are committed to their non-negotiables
- Strive for connection
- Are rooted in humble beginnings
Fuel their minds
Sports plays an important role in helping to build mental stamina and perseverance. Team members who participate in sports, tend to structure their tasks better, whilst also having better focus and response rate to stress. The mind can become highly influenced by our thoughts, which is why it is important to put the endorphins to good use and maintain a positive mindset in believing we can achieve what we are set out to do.
Pit-Stop: Self-growth opportunity: How consistent could you be at transitioning towards saying phrases on the right?
Are committed to their non-negotiables
Each team has a set of standards which are explicitly or implicitly known. However, PwC’s team members who compete in sport activities shared that high performing teams have four common non-negotiables, which if broken, would immediately be addressed in a clear and specific manner.
‘I have your back’
It is about standing up for your team even when no one is looking.
Safe Spaces
It’s about feeling comfortable to be open, transparent and vulnerable, knowing that the people around you want what’s best for you and want to be a part of your journey.
Coachability
Investing in yourself is a free tool, which simply requires effort. Coachability is about leaving your pride at the door, maintaining a can-do attitude and showing up for yourself on a daily basis, to become a better version than yesterday
Is it True, is it Kind, is it Necessary, is it Helpful?
We have all heard the saying, think before you speak. This applies if the above questions mentioned do not apply to what you’re about to say.
Pit-Stop: Awareness opportunity: If you were to ask members of your team what they believe the team stands for, would their responses be synonymous with your intended non-negotiables?
Strive for connection
High performing teams understand that they work for each other. It’s about harnessing teamwork, the power of leadership, sharing clear direction and prioritising the team’s non-negotiables for the psychological safety of each member.
Pit-Stop: Self-reflective opportunity: What is it that you want to be remembered for? How would this translate to the team you are part of?
Are rooted in humble beginnings
A quality which is never overlooked by a high performer is taking constructive criticism well, with the opportunity to learn and grow from their mistakes. They understand that building skill takes time and effort, and thrive in being a beginner.
Pit-Stop: Self-reflective opportunity: Where are you choosing to direct your attention to today?
Whether we believe we can or not, we’re right
Coming full circle to ‘fueling the mind’, high performing teams say things such as:
Building skill takes time and effort. I will invest the time and be tenaciously persistent.
I understand that discomfort is part of the process. Discomfort means that I am learning.
I will make mistakes and they will teach me.
I want feedback and coaching.
That’s the mindset of someone getting better everyday. Why? Because where attention goes, energy flows.
Overnight success is a 15-year journey
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