Redefining High Performance: From Doing to Being

Four years ago, my view on high performance was (left side of the photo):

• Focusing on high achievement and ambition
• Giving my all
• Keeping my promises
• Going the extra mile
• Helping others, no matter what
• Seeking continuous improvement
• Getting things done
• Being goal and outcome-oriented
• Maintaining professionalism, taking responsibility, showing initiative, and solving problems

These were my beliefs for over 20 years, and I am proud of what I accomplished. However, this high-achievement-focused journey was often stressful, sometimes pushing me to my limits and leading to overwhelm, exhaustion, and resentment. The high expectations I had for myself (and others), also meant that I was often in a judgmental and disappointed state. What has changed over the last couple of years?

My understanding of high performance has shifted focus from doing to being. It has evolved from a linear, outcome-oriented, and rational concept to something more holistic, creative, and authentic (right side of the photo). I realized this during a coaching session when I visually represented my thoughts without even intending to.

How I think about high-performance now - it keeps evolving

1. Being self-aware of my thoughts, behaviors, and feelings - in the moment - allowing me to quickly shift to more positive forms when I’m not being the way I want to be. Daniel Goleman’s work on emotional intelligence underscores the importance of self-awareness in managing emotions and behaviors effectively. The key here is to build our capacity to stay present so that we notice what is happening inside and outside ourselves and intentionally respond to situations as opposed to react.
2. Being intentional about recharging my batteries and prioritizing self-care to keep my energy high and positive. Emma Seppälä, a psychologist and author of The Happiness Track, emphasizes the importance of self-care and managing energy for sustained high performance. She states, "Our culture has trained us to believe that the more we sacrifice, the more important and valuable we are. This mindset leads to burnout" (2016). It's time we take care of ourselves so that we can take care of others.
3. Being conscious of how I show up when interacting with others. What’s my energy like? Energies are contagious. Research on mirror neurons, which are neurons that fire both when we act and when we observe the same action performed by others, supports the idea that our emotions and behaviors are contagious. This can greatly influence the emotional states of those around us. It's crucial to think about how we want to show up and have tools to get into the right mindset and state of being.
4. Being kinder, more empathetic, and less judgmental of myself and others. Brené Brown’s research highlights the importance of vulnerability and empathy in personal and professional relationships. She explains, "Daring leaders work to make sure people can be themselves and feel a sense of belonging" (2018). Empathy starts with letting go of (self)criticism while still recognizing what you want to improve and taking action.
5. Focusing on and enjoying the process instead of fixating on outcomes. Carol Dweck’s research on growth mindset emphasizes that focusing on the process rather than outcomes fosters greater motivation and satisfaction (2006). The process I'm aiming for is the feeling of having had a good day, being content with my overall performance, feeling productive and engaged, connected with others, and doing work that is I feel is meaningful.
6. Feeling more joy, calm, and grounded confidence. Chris Bailey, in The Productivity Project, discusses the role of calmness in enhancing productivity and overall well-being. He writes, "When you calm your mind, you become more present and engaged, leading to a deeper sense of joy and confidence in your daily activities" (2016). This, to me, is the foundation of all stress management, and I would add the importance of not only calming the mind, but the body.
7. Trusting my intuition (something I’m still working on). “The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant,” Albert Einstein once said. “We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift.” Daniel Goleman in his book The Hidden Driver of Excellence. Intuition is hard to tap into when we ruminate and are restless. Finding stillness and opportunities for reflection help us listen to our own wisdom.
8. Being grateful for and accepting where I am in the present moment. Our brains have a tendency to focus on the negative and things that go wrong. Yet, research has shown that practicing gratitude can significantly boost well-being and performance. "Gratitude amplifies the good in your life, which makes it easier to be resilient in the face of adversity" (Lyubomirsky, 2007).
9. Recognizing my values and mission and using these as a compass for my journey. Brené Brown, in Dare to Lead, underscores the power of living according to your values to achieve a fulfilling and high-performing life. She writes, "Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen" (2018). Values count, especially when we are challenged.

The Outcome

All of these practices are helping me have a higher frequency of good and great days, and being graceful with myself during "good enough" and "bad" days. And THAT is high performance—with much less stress, improved well-being, and better relationships.     Surprisingly, as an unintended side effect, my presence in the world has become more "spiritual". My world is now filled with more peace, love, beauty, and appreciation.

Clients on Parallel Journeys

My clients have embarked on similar journeys, each in their own way and at their own pace, discovering what works for them. Some have found more balance, others have improved their work relationships. Some feel more confident in their roles, experience more joy in their daily lives, and use their values to approach challenging situations. Several have made smooth career transitions by showing up authentically, focusing on the process, and letting go of the outcome. All have become more self-aware, more present, and more intentional about their choices. By being more conscious of how they are “being” they are directly and positively influencing their “doing”.

How do you define high performance?

How do you know when you are achieving it?