Performance Starts Before the Result

A swing lasts a fraction of a second. Before the bat moves, the hitter has already gathered information, recognized a pattern, organized timing and put attention somewhere. Then the swing happens.

Find the first domino

The swing is visible, so it is usually the first thing we try to fix. It is not the first event. Preparation, timing, information, attention, recognition, decision and commitment arrive before the swing—and before the result.

The cost of hedging

You cannot fully commit to two decisions at once. A hitter cannot hunt a pitch while protecting himself against everything, or keep attention on the baseball while also chasing the last at-bat, the scout, the average and the fear of failure.

A better review

Instead of asking what is wrong with my swing, ask: Was I prepared? Was I on time? What was I looking for? Did I see it? Where was my attention? Did I make a decision? Did I commit? Confidence needs evidence; evidence comes from work.