In February 2020, heavyweight boxer Deontay Wilder lost a brutal fight against fellow boxer Tyson Fury.
The fight was a lopsided bash with Fury knocking down Wilder multiple times before Wilder’s trainer threw in the towel to end the fight early.
After the fight, Wilder blamed his poor performance on an elaborate 40-pound costume he wore while walking from his locker room to the ring. He had never worn the costume.
“My uniform was way too heavy,” Wilder told ESPN after the fight.
“It was 40-plus pounds. We had it on 10 or 15 minutes before we even walked out and then put the helmet on. That was extra weight, then the ring walk, then going up the stairs. It was like a real workout for my legs. When I took it off, I knew immediately that the game had changed.”
Regardless of whether you think Wilder’s excuse is legitimate, we can agree that he violated an essential rule of athletic competition: there should be no surprises on gameday.
This same rule applies for any business professional before an important work event.
Whether you have a job interview, presentation, Board Meeting, or another important event for your line of work, there should be no surprises with your routine beforehand.
Wear what you normally wear.
Eat what you normally eat
Drink what you normally drink.
Do what you normally do.
Gameday (in a boxing ring or in an office) is not the day to test out a new outfit, type of food, or routine.
Stick to your normal routine before any significant work event.
Doing so will help you avoid any physical surprises. You will also be more confident knowing that you are following a routine that you have tested.
For example, I follow the same routine before every webinar, keynote presentation, and workshop that I deliver.
My routine includes high-intensity exercise, stretching, a long shower, a lot of water, and a clean, simple meal consisting of healthy foods that my body is used to consuming.
My routine gives me confidence and helps me feel sharp, strong, and in control before every presentation.
There should be no surprises on gameday, whether you are in an office or a boxing ring!
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About the Author
Pete Leibman is a speaker and author who helps consultants, lawyers, and advisors build the energy, focus, and resilience to sustain high performance. He delivers keynotes, workshops, and webinars for leading consulting firms, law firms, and financial services firms. Pete is the author of three books and more than 300 articles on high performance. His latest book is Stronger Advisor: High-Performance Habits for Consultants, Lawyers, and Advisors.
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