On The O-Studio Podcast we chatted with Mental Skills Coach and co-founder of Performance Wellbeing, John Quinn. John’s extensive experience includes working with high-profile teams such as the Crusaders, Black Sticks, and prominent athletes like Tom Walsh, Eliza McCartney, and Hamish Kerr. He also helped Tim through some tough times while he was playing for the Crusaders.
In this conversation, we talked about the essential skills and practical tips for achieving high performance in any environment. Emphasising the importance of mental skills not just in sports but in life. John says, mental skills are life skills, if we can teach them as life skills, we can use them every single day. This approach helps you manage stress, stay focused, and maintain a positive mindset in high-pressure situations.
One of the key takeaways from the episode is the concept that wellbeing underpins performance. John notes, "What underpins performance is actually our wellbeing." He stresses the need for a balanced lifestyle where physical, mental, and emotional health are prioritised. This holistic approach ensures sustained high performance and long-term success.
Practical Tips for Mental Preparation
1. Mindful Breathing and Meditation: Incorporating simple mindfulness practices can help manage stress and improve focus. In his sessions he likes to lead a short meditation, to harness the power of these techniques and apply in high-stress environments.
2. Focus on the Present: John highlights the importance of staying present and managing distractions. "Prepare mentally for what you need to do and then focus on executing it," he says. You have to train your mind to focus well.
3. Embrace Discomfort: Developing resilience involves embracing discomfort and seeing failure as an opportunity for growth. "Struggle is the place we want to get you to enjoy because that's that resiliency piece," John explains. This mindset shift is crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving excellence.
Lessons from Elite Athletes
Throughout the conversation, John shares insights from his work with elite athletes who exemplify the power of mental skills in achieving success. Their ability to stay focused and manage the pressures of high-stakes competitions is a testament to the effectiveness of mental preparation. It's important to find the right balance of physical and mental training with. This integrated approach ensures comprehensive development and peak performance.
Creating a Culture of Wellbeing
John also discusses the significance of creating supportive environments in teams and organisations. He praises the Crusaders for their genuine connections and emphasis on human wellbeing. "The best coaches are better at putting the human first," he says, that's something Razor can do well. Tim and John stress the importance of authentic relationships to foster high performance.
John Quinn's insights offer a valuable guide for anyone looking to enhance their performance through mental skills. His practical tips and real-world examples from elite sports provide a blueprint for achieving excellence while maintaining overall wellbeing. Whether you want to do well in your career, as a parent or as a partner, these lessons can help you navigate high-pressure situations and thrive.
For more detailed insights and expert advice, listen to the full episode here.
