The Power of Rituals

Power-up Before You Perform

Most high performers have some type of ritual before the game, before the shot, or before they “go on stage.” Golfers have a pre-shot routine before they swing. Many basketball players have a ritual before they attempt a free throw. Even in sales, top performers have a ritual before they enter a sales interaction. The reason for these rituals is to get into a peak state and access all your resources.

Personally, before I enter into any meeting of consequence, I work through my ritual checklist: 

Personal attire and grooming OK (don’t forget the smile) – Check

Presentation and support materials in order – Check

Background info, key attendee’s names and roles understood – Check

Meeting purpose and desired outcome clear – Check

Attitude and level of optimism heightened (Music – Mantra – Meditation) – Check

If these 5 steps of the pre-meeting mantra are followed, what is the chance that the meeting outcome will be more successful? I would say nearly 100 percent.

What rituals can you create for yourself to help you access your optimum state and prepare for a meeting, presentation, sales interaction, or even a momentous decision? When the stakes are high, you want to be your “best self” and rid yourself of any lingering negativity.

The most impactful ritual (or routine) is your morning ritual, because it sets the tone for the entire day. A world class sprinter needs to get out of the starting blocks fast and clean. A top-performer needs a powerful start to set the momentum and pace for the day ahead.  My morning routine was established to optimize my body, mind and spirit before the day begins.  Here is a list of my morning activities, beginning at 5:00AM:

  • Wake & have tea with my wife (connection)
  • Personal devotion, reading, prayer & meditation (spiritual)
  • Gratitude, reflection & projection into an “ideal day” (mental)
  • Physical workout (body – physical)

The power of rituals or routines is the intention behind them. Rather than being impacted by circumstances, you can take a level of control of the outcomes you desire.  A good ritual ensures you will be accessing your best self in that moment or event. 

Create a strong ritual for yourself today and try it for 30 days and see how it can work for you… and make you better.

Rick Wickizer is a trained and ICF credentialed business coach and a successful entrepreneur. Rick has served the building industry for over 30 years and is dedicated to adding value to all he works with. For information about coaching services provided by Rick, go to: rickwickizer.com

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