I read Sebastian Coe’s book “The Winning Mind” during the summer holidays and I have kept it by my side in my office since then knowing I wanted to do something with it. I have been “clearing out the old ready for the new” and so Sebastian’s book has risen to the top again so let’s see where it takes us!
There is a danger for some to think "I can’t win a gold medal, so what is this to do with me?" but surely we should all have something to aim for even if it is just to be happy!
As my Jo says life is not a dress rehearsal!! Many of Sebastian’s themes can suit all of us - why not select the ones that fit you for 2010?
- Maintain physical fitness – physical wellbeing underpins mental vitality and we are able to meet the challenges of daily life a lot better
- Enjoy life balance remember to keep in touch with family and friends alike
- Talk things through with people you trust and it doesn’t have to be a coach or supervisor of coaches!
- Planning and giving yourself time to think gives you a lot better chance of being successful
- As a coach or manager you should try and be building in obsolescence – the more you work with somebody the less you should be needed over time
- As questions are answered and confidence grows so the coach/manager/parent lets go
- Failing is part of the process of winning and often provides the greatest lessons
- Never say it can’t be done and always talk in the positive
- Recognise your abilities, appreciate your strengths and work on your weaknesses
- Evaluate your position before you start and be prepared to be flexible enough to adapt to win
- Market feedback from whatever source can be absolutely priceless
- When you have a good story to tell make sure it differentiates you from the competition
- When the going gets tough the tough get going
- There is no certainty of outcome in life but you will never know what you are made of unless you choose to take part
- Learning to prioritise is an important lesson in the process of winning
- Even the busiest leader must know when to switch off and recharge the batteries
- Nothing sustainable happens quickly
- Good leadership includes looking towards a future in which you pass on your responsibilities to others
Whatever winning means to you “The Winning Mind” is an easy read and a book which will give different messages to you so I recommend you read it.
What are the “gold medals in life you are striving for?” Do you have a plan for 2010? What is your answer to life?
You get out what you put in!
Have a fantastic 2010!
