As a tennis tragic I am currently in detox mode. The investment of time over January was, however, of great value. It provided the opportunity to be an observer of individuals defining or even redefining the elements of greatness. Furthermore, it provided some insightful clues, not only in how to find the elements of one’s greatness but how to continually enhance them.
Yes, I am talking of Federer, or “the Fed” as he is commonly known, who seems focused on reframing history and all records that are held sacrosanct. He has a passion for the history of tennis and a deep respect for those before him. He has had to work at his game, and with age, he has looked at how to stay at his edge. The Fed has refined some of his techniques, and engaged specialist coaches with a key purpose – “to strengthen his cup, not add more tea” . The outcome? To continue performing at the highest level, winning grand slams and being number two in the world at 37 years of age.
The elements of greatness were not restricted to Federer though. We witnessed I believe, two of the best matches in the women’s semi-final and the final, where three women reached to the depths of their innate strengths and inherent commitment to achieve the penultimate – holding the trophy at the end. For Wozniacki and Halep, this was a breakthrough moment – to win their first grand slam. If ever a draw would have been the right outcome this was it!
The success was handled with incredible grace and respect, for their respective opponent. This was true for the men’s final as well, as the result in both the men’s and women’s finals really could have gone either way. What intrigued me was noticing the ‘finer distinctions’ that made the ultimate difference.
At what point did self- belief determine the outcome, and where does that come from?
What is evident with Federer is the ‘team’ he has around him. His ultimate trust in them, and his ability to delegate to them. This then supports him to focus on his role, and show up on the court.
There are aspects to consider, and I believe these apply to how we show up as leaders. This is what I refer to as “edge states,” because they really call us to our “edge”.
They support us to stand tall:-
- adapting and adjusting to the environment, the conditions, and in the moment
- dealing with the internal dialogue, managing your ‘story’
- regathering focus and thereby one’s composure
- reconnecting to one’s internal self with heightened awareness
- tapping into one’s resilience
- finding that deeper level of creativity, and finesse
- having balance in life, not just tennis
- ensuring simplicity and consistency
Ultimately, defining your own narrative is key, so that it serves you rather than hinders you.
Leaders in any field, be it business or in public life, who have this capacity are able to stand tall and fully embrace their individual elements.
January also allowed time for another passion – reading. The book this year was referred by a client and an aware leader – a biography on Sir Alex Ferguson where he shares some of the elements which shaped his leadership of Man United, and how he shaped the culture.
The epilogue by Michael Moritz summarises it as follows:
Three words for approach to leadership –
Preparation, Perseverance, Patience.
One word – Consistency.
These seem to apply to Federer’s approach to his elements of tennis greatness.
Here are some Questions for you:
• Why do I do what I do? Am I passionate about it? How committed am I to being fully present, and showing up when needed, to stretch the belief of what is possible?
As a leader how do you support your individual elements that take you to your ‘edge state’?
I’d love to help you discover more.
Have a great month.
Anna
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