Playing to Win

Define your unique winning aspiration clearly and let it steer your actions and decisions.

Imagine sailing without a set destination—you'd drift aimlessly. Setting your navigation point gives you purpose and direction, just like a compass guides a lost sailor.

• Defines success: A clear aspiration serves as a beacon, defining what winning means for you.
• Motivates and aligns: It unifies your efforts, ensuring each action is geared towards a common goal.
• Enables decision-making: A well-defined aspiration simplifies choices, highlighting paths that align with your vision.

Write down your winning aspiration and place it somewhere visible to keep it top of mind.

Don't confuse tactics with aspirations; aspirations are about end goals, not the means to achieve them.

Select your playing field carefully, focusing on arenas where you can truly make a difference.

Think of playing sports as a child; we gravitated towards games we excelled at, where we could shine and have the most fun.

• Maximizes impact: Deliberate choices about where to engage allow you to concentrate efforts and resources effectively.
• Enhances strategic focus: Clearly defined playing fields clarify where to place your bets and prioritize efforts.
• Builds competitive advantage: Playing in the right field lets you leverage strengths where they matter most.

Identify one area in your life where you can concentrate efforts for a greater impact and make it a focus.

Avoid spreading yourself too thin; resist the temptation to play in too many fields simultaneously.

Develop unique capabilities that distinguish you and are essential to achieving your aspirations.

Think of superheroes with their distinctive powers; it's these unmatched abilities that set them apart and enable them to win battles.

• Creates relevance: Unique capabilities ensure you are essential and valuable in your chosen field.
• Sustains differentiation: Persistent development of these capabilities keeps you ahead of competitors.
• Fortifies strengths: Strengthening your unique skills builds resilience and adaptability.

Identify one capability that sets you apart and commit to improving it through daily practice.

Don’t get complacent in your current skills; the best capabilities continuously evolve.