Eight Traits That Top Athletes And Top Talent Have In Common
JULY 8, 2015 – Has it ever occurred to you that Bill Gates and LeBron James might share traits that have led to their success? Thousands of studies have been done to pinpoint success in business, and the list of traits that a person should possess is long.
At Signature Source we have narrowed the list to eight, and each one of them is a quality that top athletes and top talent share. Although at first blush it might seem unusual to look at athletes and successful business people in the same light, the drive it takes to succeed, their dedication and the self-confidence that success can bring all can spell victory be it on a field or in an office.
With the recent success of the USA Women’s Soccer team, we thought that it is an appropriate time to share that thousands of studies have been done to pinpoint success in a job search is very similar to the collective traits that athletes bring to their respective game and performance to win! As one can imagine, the list of traits is long. When it comes to success in a candidate’s job search, these traits can be narrowed to eight, and each one of them is a quality that top athletes and top talent share.
So what are those traits?
1. Laser focus. They know how to block out external influences and focus on the work they need to do to succeed in tasks.
2. They never quit. They view any defeat as a challenge and understand that a dozen “nos” make them one step closer to a “yes.” They embrace challenge and use it as a means for development and growth.
3. Understand teamwork. Having the ability to work with others is essential in both sports and business. A win for the team is a win for each individual.
4. Big-picture eyes. They understand the big picture, and rather than letting problems derail their work, they keep their goal in mind and do everything possible to make it become reality.
5. They communicate well. They listen to what others have to say, they learn from constructive criticism and are able to communicate their ideas for success to others.
6. Life in balance. A diet of potato chips and beer, no exercise and little sleep does not translate well in sports or the boardroom. Good health, sleep, exercise patterns and nutrition spells success in the present and for many years to come.
7. Strong work ethic. To be good at a sport takes rigorous practice and a dedication that most do not understand. Dedication to your profession takes equal resilience.
8. Ignore comfort zones. The willingness to step out of your comfort zone, to take on tasks that are beyond your limits and the will to help others to succeed are the marks of great athlete or a savvy business leader.