Chapter 13. A HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIFESTYLE

In writing Performing Under Pressure I wanted to communicate the simplest components that would have the greatest effect on enhancing the ability to perform under pressure. What I came up with was a combination of positive programming and the release, breathe, refocus formula. It's basic. However, there are other factors that are also extremely important in nurturing your ability to perform under pressure. One of them is lifestyle. For several years, whenever I spoke to business groups across North America I would ask the audience two questions. Question One: which factors have most contributed to your growth and success?

The three most frequent responses to the first question were a positive attitude; hard work; and being surrounded by positive, talented, hardworking people.

The second question was "What, if anything, could limit your continued growth and success?" The overwhelming response was a factor that is rarely given any training time or attention in performance-enhancement seminars: health.

People know that if they're sick (or dead!) they won't perform very well. And they're becoming more conscious of some of the basic ingredients that nurture health and consistent high-level performance. The list includes diet, exercise, recreation, relaxation, relationships, and a healthy perspective.

We don't live in a vacuum. We live in a biochemical, psychophysical, socioeconomic life space. Our ability to think clearly, focus, manage stress, and ...

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