When you watch top athletes perform, they always look cool, calm, and collected. You might say they make things look easy. What we don’t see is the work that they put into their years of training and practice sessions. That work is designed to take them beyond their comfort zone so that they can perform under the most difficult of circumstances. And don’t overlook the various coaches they engage to push them to that next level. They remain in the shadows – but make no mistake, they are there. What can be learned from this? If you want to perform your best, to your potential, you’ll have to grow out of your own comfort zone.
I see similarities with leaders who strive to be at the top of their game. They realize that to get to where they want to go, they’ll have to leave their comfort zone behind. They are not afraid to try new things, or to have their ideas be challenged. As an entrepreneur, they take calculated risks on people, technology, and the markets they go after. And by the way, there are no sure bets. They work to be ready to take on the challenges of a transformative marketplace, and make it look easy along the way.
Making a transition from being comfortable, to achieving your growth goals and living your vision doesn’t happen by accident. It’s an intentional act. And it’s not just through time and attendance. You’ve got to stretch your thinking, develop the work habits that will allow you to reach this level, and sometimes just try harder.
There are multiple stages that folks go through to get to their true potential. The first, and perhaps the most important step is to believe in yourself and the vision you have for the business. There may be some self-doubt at times, and that’s understandable. You’ll need to believe in what you’re doing and feel confident that you’ve brought together a team of individuals who can play their position. I’ve witnessed first-hand the critical importance of having the right folks on the team and have seen leaders struggle when they don’t have the team, they need to perform their best.
Achieving your goals and moving out of your comfort zone can be hard. Anything worthwhile is. Take that first step and focus on where you want to take your business, write it down and have someone you trust give you feedback on it. Make the adjustments as needed and then move on to your team. Make sure that they believe in your vision and are capable, and motivated to help you get there. That’s where it starts. Now the fun part is executing on that vision every day. You’ve got this, make that putt to win the tournament.
Mike Philie can help validate what’s working and what may need to change in your business. Changing the trajectory of a business is difficult to do while simultaneously operating the core competencies. Mike provides strategy and insight to owners and CEOs in the Graphic Communications Industry by providing direct and realistic advice, not being afraid to voice the unpopular opinion and helping leaders navigate change through a common sense and practical approach. Learn more at www.philiegroup.com, LinkedIn or email at mphilie@philiegroup.com.
Originally published in Printing Impressions.
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