Train Like An Olympian
Have you been watching the Olympics? The sports I enjoy the most are Curling and Snowboard Cross, and I must admit I have the TV on during the day so that I can watch hockey and curling while sitting at my desk. Tonight they were doing some little snippets on some of the Olympians and there were a lot of scenes from training routines. What struck me was the variety of activities they all do that are NOT the sport they compete in. All of them are designed to improve some aspect of their ultimate performance. So that got me to thinking – what other activities am I doing that improve my actual job performance?
Here are some things that you and I need to practice so that we can perform our own personal best:
- Imagination – This is the “thinking outside the box” part of our job. Sometimes it helps to seek help from a marketing strategist in order to see the possibilities. You don’t want to have a copy cat business, and if brainstorming isn’t your strength, find someone to help you here.
- Tenacity – This is the “don’t quit” part of your job. You’ve heard it before – often people give up right before they would have won. Don’t stop pushing forward. Don’t stop moving. Always take action. Winners are always going in some direction. Even if your path seems wrong, keep on the path. The right way will open for you.
- Customer Service – Referrals are likely your best source of new clients, so take care of your contacts and your clients. As Kelly O’Neil says: have your clients turn into raving fans who build your business for you. Provide an excellent experience that sets you apart from your competition.
- Flexibility – While it probably helps to be able to bend over and touch your toes, what you may need more is the ability to “go with the flow.” Remain open to new ideas, seek out innovative products and processes, and choose things that stretch you.
What things would you add to this list?
