Applying the Iron Man Mindset to Business

January 21, 2015

We thought we would share some of Stuart’s insights into preparing for Iron Man 70.3 and how they can apply to business. Like performing in a race, business is also about endurance, tough mental challenges, pushing through torturous ‘uphill battles’ and at times thrilling moments of joy and exhilaration as you coast along scenic paths or overtake your competitors.

Recently Stuart Marais gave a talk at the RSAWEB offices on how to mentally prepare for the next Iron Man 70.3 Challenge happening in East London this weekend.

 

Here are some Iron Man tips from Stuart on how to deal with the ups and downs of business:

1. “Know it will be tough. It will be messy. You will get kicked in the face. You will probably get dumped by a dumper. If you expect the worst, nothing can be that bad.”
In all things in life preparation is key. In business if you plan for the ‘worst case’ scenario you will be better prepared for whatever obstacles come your way. When you are well prepared it is easier to tackle challenges as they arrive.

2. “Surround yourself with swimmers of similar strength. Ideally stand next to your training partners. You will feel automatically relaxed.”
Surround yourself with people in business who are in a similar situation to yours, who are facing the same challenges you face. Know that you are not the only one experiencing difficulties, challenges and obstacles and remind yourself that if they can do it so can you.

3. “We all make mistakes, but what makes us improve, is learning from our mistakes”
Remember in business that mistakes do happen and as a business leader you will make mistakes from time to time. What is important is that you learn from your mistakes and use your new knowledge to improve and adapt your business strategy to enable your business to perform better in the future.

4. “Build friendships, take advantage of training groups and tap into the knowledge of people who have walked this road before you.”
In business, networking with people can be a valuable tool in developing your company as it enables you to build valuable connections and learn from others. It can also be beneficial to identify a mentor who has already built a successful business and gain guidance and advice from them.

5. “Surround yourself with positive people, talk about life and enjoy the time away from the office.”
It’s important to cultivate a work/life balance to experience life to the fullest and enjoy time with friends and family. If you only focus on work all the time you might miss out on some other opportunities that life presents.
And remember at the end of the day in Iron Man as in anything else; “It is only a race. It is only you against yourself. It is your day and your moment to shine. Just go have fun!”

To learn more about Stuart and his journey to Iron Man 70.3 watch this video:

To learn more about Stuart’s talk held at RSAWEB last December click here