To achieve optimal performance, you need to live in accordance with your “why”. You need to be aware of what motivates you and how much you are willing to do to sustain this motivation. Surfing champion Layne Beachley who became the world’s only surfer to claim six consecutive world titles is well aware of her values, and this is where here determination and strength come from. She understands the why behind her motivations and actions; this is also how she remains in control.
Values also set the foundation for one’s goals. Professor of applied behavioral science at the Graziadio School of Business and Management Charles D. Kerns says “values give purpose and meaning to one’s goals.” During the goal-setting process, he suggests asking if one’s goals are consistent with the person’s core values.
In a Time Magazine article on motivation, J.D. Meier, bestselling author of Getting Results the Agile Way, says “if you can connect the work you do to your values even in small ways, you can change your game.” This is the secret to sustained motivation. One of the author’s values is learning and growth. To connect these values, he finds ways to nurture his skills in any situation. In the same way, values can be connected to surfing to level up your skills.
