PerforMind [Performance + Mindset] Golden Moments: Mastering the opportunities

PerforMind [Performance + Mindset] Golden Moments: Mastering the opportunities

Novel Opportunity

After retiring from triathlon, I realized I wasn’t going to get any faster, only older and slower. So I looked for a new challenge and took up coastal rowing. Like triathlon, it’s a relatively new sport with fewer participants and less media attention, making it easier to do well. I worked hard and, luckily, won several races, including my first GB gold in a double boat as a senior rower.

Respond to the Data

A friend was unwell, so I stepped into their boat as a guest. It wasn’t my team, so I was hesitant to offer advice, but I noticed the boat's performance. Instead of critiquing, I simply called out the 500-meter split times from my Garmin: "2:30," "2:15," "2:10." The crew, all over 60, instinctively adjusted their strokes based on the data. Without any advice from me, they pushed themselves harder, just by hearing the numbers.
Set an appropriate target

This crew, while not expecting to win, had never lost their competitive spirit. They targeted younger or less experienced teams for fun.

Seizing an opportunity

As the season went on, they reflected on their success and saw a real chance to compete in the British Rowing Championships after COVID. With fewer teams competing and their strong preparation, we believed we had a shot at the podium in the Masters category.
In the end, the crew won GB gold in the Masters, an incredible achievement. This wasn’t just about the race—it was about collaboration, seizing an opportunity, and realizing that it might be their last chance to do something truly extraordinary.

Key Lessons

1. Embrace new challenges: After recognizing that he wouldn’t get faster in triathlon, Tim sought out a new sport in coastal rowing. Stepping into new arenas can open up fresh opportunities for success and growth.

2. Respond to data, not opinion: Instead of giving unsolicited advice to a new crew, Tim let the data speak for itself. By sharing split times from his Garmin, the team naturally adjusted their performance. Data-driven insights can inspire improvement without direct intervention.

3. Set appropriate, realistic targets: Even though the crew didn't expect to win, their competitive spirit remained intact. They set targets against younger or less experienced teams, showing the importance of having realistic yet motivating goals.

4. Seize the moment: When the opportunity arose to compete in the British Rowing Championships post-COVID, the crew capitalized on their preparation and timing. Seizing opportunities at the right moment can lead to extraordinary achievements.

5. Collaboration and belief can lead to greatness: The team’s success was rooted in collaboration and recognizing a unique chance to compete. Believing in the possibility of achieving something extraordinary can unlock remarkable outcomes, even in the face of uncertainty.

6. Golden moments may be fleeting: The crew realized that this might be their last chance to do something truly significant, emphasizing the importance of making the most of each opportunity while it’s available.

Tim Rogers
Coach, Consultant, Change-Manager
[email protected]

MBA Management Consultant | Prince2 Project Manager, Agile Scrum Master | AMPG Change Practitioner | BeTheBusiness Mentor | ICF Trained Coach | Mediation Practitioner | 4 x GB Gold Medalist | First Aid for Mental Health | Certificate in Applied Therapeutic Skills