The Key Ingredients of Elite Performance
Almost without exception, in our highest achieving clients, we see three attributes radiating through. It is these ingredients that I feel are essential for excellence.
Whether they have become professional athletes, entrepreneurs or advanced to further education at Ivy League institutions — they consistently demonstrate the same tendencies.
I have worked in Sports and Educational Recruitment for over a decade now, I am grateful that our team and our company are working with many driven and ambitious people who are looking to be the best they can be in their sport, education and future career.
But those who really break the barriers and reach the top are consistently doing the following to compliment their talent:
- Grit
If you are aiming high, it is not easy! All these individuals, I am referring to, had big challenges in which it would have been understandable to quit or settle for what they had. But they persevered, despite multiple rejections and setbacks. They didn’t blame anyone or anything, they analyzed and worked even harder in the area they fell short.
“Grittier students are more likely to earn their diplomas; grittier teachers are more effective in the classroom. Grittier soldiers are more likely to complete their training, and grittier salespeople are more likely to keep their jobs. The more challenging the domain, the more grit seems to matter.” Angela Duckworth, Author of Grit
2. Being Humble
I have not seen these people brag or seek praise. They are self-assured and don’t seek the extrinsic rewards of fame, money and adoration as the priority. They value the internal sense of achievement and following their passion. They are genuine and follow their aspirations with honesty and respect.
3. Being Proactive
They do not procrastinate and just get things done.
When working with these elite performers, they were a dream for us to have in our recruiting process.
- If we set tasks or objectives they were completed promptly.
- If things didn’t go as expected, they were adaptable and solved the problems in front of them efficiently. When they received instructions or constructive feedback they reacted with urgency to improve in that area.
These traits were transferable into the relevant sporting, academic and career environments also. Acting with urgency allowed them quicker development and improvement.
Summary
What is interesting is that these three items, mentioned above, are possible for anyone to maximize their potential in most endeavors.
We aren’t all necessarily in possession of the genetics to be an elite professional athlete or have the opportunity to be an entrepreneur — but there is nothing hindering you showing Grit and being both Humble and Proactive so you can be the best you can be and maximize your potential.
Stewart Stanbra is a founder of CSUSA and the Pursue Group, he is helping driven people Pursue Ambition. Please follow for more stories on Entrepreneurship, Startups, Leadership and Self Care. Any claps are hugely appreciated!
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