Navigating the field as a consultant
You need a compass for sustainability
QUOTE
A compass is like a guiding philosophy, not a specific plan. It’s important to recognize the difference.
OBSERVATION
Recognizing the difference between strategy and tactics
This is such an important topic for us consulting and one I visit frequently at slightly different angles. In our field we talk about our “why”, knowing our “philosophy”, but rarely do we distinguish between this and actual tactics for delivery. As I have mentioned I have been on a Seth Godin bender lately as his conversations resonate with my view on consulting. In our field, we are hyper focused on mental skills training with little discussion around philosophies around performance.
At the University I teach at, we utilize the Theoretical Orientation of Performance Excellence from Dr. Mark Aoyagi to kickstart the discussion of philosophy. However, even in that discussion, it tends to revolve around the impact on tactics such as how to deliver skills training or expanding a bit on how we want to educate ourselves in the future. Not so much on how we want to operate in the field. Having that reflection can offer us a compass guides the long-term strategy. Who am I today and who do I want to be tomorrow?
ACTIONABLE IDEA
Focus on the gap
Reflect critically on who you want to be tomorrow and don’t get caught up in the immediate cash grab. Reflect on the following:
Who do I want to be tomorrow and where am I today?
Reflect more on your view of performance vs. delivery method preferences
What are the “systems” that I have to navigate and/or take into consideration? (i.e. - politics of AASP and common perspectives around mental health and mental performance, common structures within athletics, learning styles, etc.).
Do I want to buck the system and go about things in a different way or work with the system?
This can feel like a lot to take in, but the sooner it’s on your radar the sooner some answers may become clearer. It’s in this reflective process that we find our unique voice in an increasingly popular market.
THE MENTAL PERFORMANCE INSTITUTE MEMBERSHIP AND SERVICES
The Mental Performance Institute is now up and running. Resource sharing, special interest events, and coaching/advising support:
VIDEO LIBRARY
Video Resources
Curated content for a wide range of consulting needs ranging from mental skills training to business strategies:
Thanks!
Russ
There are some excellent ideas and perspectives for becoming your best self (personally and professionally) in this post. Thank you!