I write about my Elite Thinking methodology to unleash the potential in teams across all sectors. It is a framework that emerges from positive psychology designed to build a world champion mindset. The framework is grounded in the belief that greater levels of self-awareness around the strengths of an individual builds sustainable success for individuals and teams. Whether it is an executive leadership team, sports team, or a school team, Elite Thinking is a solution-focused approach which entails identifying what creates a successful team, who the team is when they are at their best and then aiming to duplicate regularly.
The Indian cricket team is under enormous pressure. A billion people are expecting them to win the Men’s Cricket T20 World Cup. They came into the competition as one of the favorites. Now, with 2 losses in 2 games the situation seems dire.
How do they navigate the rest of the tournament to keep their hopes of a semifinal berth alive?
Focus on their best selves
Every person wants to be more of their best more often and maximize their performance. To do this players need to focus on their strengths. Without an awareness of strengths, it’s almost impossible to contribute effectively to a team.
The players should consider:
- “Who am I and what do I do well when things are going well?”
- “Who am I and what do I do well when things aren’t going well?”
Focus on attitude and effort
Consecutive losses can lead to stress and anxiety which can lead to safer play, when in fact T20 is unpredictable and demands risk taking. The players need to evaluate themselves on the behaviors they want to see repeated in games.
- “What am I thinking and feeling at our best?”
- “What is the team I thinking and feeling at our best?”
Focus on fact
The team will be thinking emotionally. They will think about worst case scenarios like not making it through playoff stages, and shame for families and country. Panic may set in. Players must be careful not to catastrophize these setbacks.
They need to start thinking more rationally about their own play, and bring a sense of calm and perspective which is needed under pressure. The players must ask,
- “Is what I am thinking a fact or a feeling?”
For the Indian team to win, they need to bring their confident, best selves.