The Point Is The Point

Even if you're not a tennis fan, the thrill of the US Open in New York, now in its second week, is hard to ignore. As a longtime fan, I relish the quality of play, the personal stories, and the experience of gathering with thousands to celebrate excellence in the sport. And, of course, there are leadership lessons everywhere on the courts. This year, I've been particularly struck by the way that great players focus on each and every point. From their perspective, the point in front of them isn't just the most crucial point; it's the only point. In a tennis match, the tide can turn quickly, and one can observe them falter when they start thinking about winning the set or match rather than the point at hand. In an evenly-matched game the mental game can make all the difference. Great players know that sometimes they will drop a game, occasionally even a match, but that does not stop them from playing the next point all out. In the mind of the player, as in the leader's mind, it's crucial to remember that the point is the point, and the journey is the journey. Keep your mind on that; the rest will take care of itself.

One of the most inspiring aspects of watching top tennis players is their unwavering ability to maintain an intense focus on the present moment. Each serve, return, and volley demands their full attention. Yes, these are athletes at the top of their game physically, and yet this laser-like concentration is a mental discipline that separates the good from the great. In leadership, we face many tasks, deadlines, and long-term goals. It's easy to become overwhelmed by the big picture, losing sight of the immediate challenges and opportunities that present themselves. But just as a tennis player can't win a match without winning individual points, a leader can't achieve grand visions without excelling in day-to-day operations and interactions. By adopting this 'point-by-point' mentality, we bring our whole selves to each task, meeting, and decision, ensuring we're giving our best effort to what's in front of us.

Another lesson from tennis is the importance of resilience and adaptability. In a match, conditions change rapidly – the wind picks up, the sun moves, or an opponent switches tactics. They're constantly reading the game, adjusting strategy, and finding new ways to overcome the challenges as they appear. This adaptability is crucial in leadership, too. The business landscape is ever-changing, with the latest technologies, market shifts, and global events constantly reshaping our playing field. Leaders who remain rigid often find themselves outmaneuvered by more nimble competitors. Remember, what worked yesterday may not work today, so we need fresh eyes to see beyond what we expect to happen. By cultivating a mindset of flexibility and continuous learning, we can better respond to unexpected challenges and seize unforeseen opportunities. Like tennis players who practice various shots and strategies, leaders should continuously expand their skill set and be ready to pivot when circumstances demand it.

Perhaps the most profound lesson from tennis is the power of mental fortitude. In a close match, it's often not the physically stronger or more skilled player who wins but the one with greater mental toughness. This involves maintaining composure under pressure, bouncing back from setbacks, and staying focused even when things aren't going well. In leadership, we face similar mental challenges. There will be days when everything seems to go wrong, when strategies fail, or when we face criticism and doubt. It's in these moments that our mental strength is truly tested. Like a tennis player who regroups after losing a set, leaders must be able to reset, refocus, and move forward with renewed determination. This resilience isn't just about personal fortitude; it sets the tone for the entire organization. When a leader maintains composure and optimism in the face of adversity, it inspires confidence and perseverance throughout the team.

In life and leadership, as in tennis, success is rarely about one big moment or decision. It's the culmination of countless small actions, choices, and attitudes. By focusing on the 'point' – the task, interaction, or challenge directly in front of us – we build the foundation for long-term success. This doesn't mean losing sight of our broader goals but rather understanding that those goals are achieved through consistent, focused effort delivered in the present moment. For those we lead and love, this approach sets an example of mindfulness, resilience, and dedication. It shows that greatness isn't about grand gestures but about bringing our best selves to each moment, each interaction, and each challenge we face. By embracing this 'point-by-point' mentality, we can navigate the complex match of leadership with greater skill, adaptability, and mental fortitude, ultimately achieving victories that extend far beyond any single game or set.

With love, gratitude, and wonder

Scott