Friday, April 3, 2009

Free Throws and Business Woes

I've been enjoying the NCAA basketball tournament. I'm always fascinated how players react in pressure situations, especially those at the end of the game. Imagine having to make a free throw in a tie game with thousands of people screaming at you.

The way to do it is through a routine. Coaches have players practice their free throw shooting endlessly and have the players follow the same shooting routine. It can be as simple as bouncing the ball three times, pulling the ball up, and then releasing it toward the basket. The idea is to make the shot second nature. It's the same shot whether it's in a high school gym or in front of a TV audience of millions. The goal is to have the routine neutralize any outside distractions.

How many of us have similar routines or processes in place for tense or busy times in our businesses? Are you prepared to handle an unexpected rush of customers? Will your team lose focus or continue to deliver a high quality of service. Pressure has a way of either bringing out the best or worst in people. Through careful practice and preparation, you an separate your organization by keeping your cool when the pressure it on. Swish!

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