At the start of the new year, I began as series focused on 6 major characteristics of high performing athletes. Often, I am asked about the what it takes for an athlete to reach a a high performance level beyond natural ability. So, after making a long list, researching top athletes, and persistent review I came up with 6 common characteristics. Obviously, these six characteristics is not an exhaustive list, however, I am certain that some form of these characteristics are prevalent in the life, mind and practices of anyone that is considered to be a high performing athletes.
The summary of the 6 characteristics are:
- High performing athletes are able to clarify the vision and path to reach their goals.
- High performance athletes measure results repeatedly. They do this to discover areas of progress as well as weaknesses.
- High-performing athletes take full responsibility. They take complete ownership of their actions, their plans, and their purpose.
- High performing athletes possess “want to”. They willfully want to practice and put in the extra reps. This characteristic is often partnered with words like passion, desire, drive and determination.
- High performing athletes take care of their body, mind and spirit. They plan and execute good self care habits and have the discipline to maintain those habits.
- High performing athletes seek out great coaching. They intentionally look for and listen to coaches who can help them break through to the next level.
Now that you are aware of these six characteristics, the next question to consider is what is the common denominator ties them together? In my opinion that denominator is discipline. Any athlete who desires to perform at the highest level must exercise a extra-ordinary amount of disciple. Almost to a level that seems obsessive when compared to those around him/her. High performing athletes know that to make their goals into reality uncompromising discipline is a must.
Elite Athletes Recruiting 