Zero Talent

Podcast Version
(with NotebookLM AI)

10 Things That Matter More Than Talent In Business And Triathlon

Talent is often glorified, but true success in both triathlon and business depends on habits and mindset rather than innate ability. Here are 10 things that require zero talent but make a massive difference in performance—whether you're racing against the clock or leading a company to success.

You might find excuses for the lack of talent, but not for these 10 key attributes:

1. Being on Time

• Triathlon: Race-day punctuality is crucial. Being late to a training session, transition setup, or warm-up can disrupt performance and increase stress. Good timing also applies to pacing strategies during the race.
• Business: In professional settings, punctuality reflects discipline and respect. Being consistently on time builds trust with clients, teams, and stakeholders.

2. Work Ethic

• Triathlon: You can’t fake the miles. Success in endurance sports comes from consistent training, attention to nutrition, and mental toughness. Hard work always beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
• Business: Long-term success is built through daily effort, persistence, and continuous learning. Entrepreneurs and executives who outwork their competition often create sustainable success.

3. Effort

• Triathlon: Every race is a reflection of training effort. From swim drills to brick workouts, the energy you put in determines the output on race day.
• Business: Effort in business means showing up, giving your best, and staying committed to results. High effort leads to innovation, growth, and competitive advantage.

4. Body Language

• Triathlon: Your posture on the bike, relaxed shoulders while swimming, and strong running form make a difference in energy efficiency and confidence. A powerful stance at the start line can even intimidate competitors.
• Business: Non-verbal communication is key in leadership and negotiations. A confident handshake, good eye contact, and an engaged posture can influence meetings, sales, and presentations.

 5. Energy

• Triathlon: A positive mindset fuels performance. Whether in training or during a tough race, bringing energy keeps motivation high and helps push through fatigue.
• Business: Leaders with high energy inspire teams. A productive, enthusiastic attitude is contagious and drives momentum in projects and team collaboration.

6. Attitude

• Triathlon: Racing is as much mental as physical. A strong attitude helps overcome setbacks like tough weather conditions, mechanical issues, or bad race starts.
• Business: The right attitude determines how setbacks are handled. A resilient mindset turns failures into learning experiences, fueling long-term success.

7. Passion

• Triathlon: Passion is the fuel behind long training sessions, early morning swims, and pushing through tough conditions. Athletes who love the sport stick with it for the long run.
• Business: Passionate people bring enthusiasm to their work, making them more persuasive, innovative, and committed. Customers and employees gravitate toward passion-driven leaders.

8. Being Coachable

• Triathlon: Even the best athletes seek coaching. A willingness to take feedback, adjust form, and refine techniques leads to steady improvement.
• Business: Growth-minded professionals seek mentorship and feedback. Those who listen, adapt, and continuously improve have the highest career trajectory.

9. Doing Extra

• Triathlon: The difference between good and great is in the extra reps, extra drills, and extra recovery work. Elite athletes do more than the minimum required.
• Business: The extra effort—following up, adding value, exceeding expectations—is what separates high performers from average professionals.

10. Being Prepared

• Triathlon: Checking equipment, training consistently, and planning race strategies lead to peak performance. Preparation reduces stress and increases race-day success.
• Business: From meetings to market research, preparation is key. Leaders who anticipate obstacles and opportunities position themselves ahead of the competition.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an executive triathlete or a professional pushing towards business excellence, these 10 attributes require zero talent—but 100% commitment. Mastering them creates a strong foundation for success in sport, business, and life.

Don't forget. It is the small daily steps that turn into positive habits, patterns, and beliefs ingrained in body and mind. Enjoy the journey!

BONUS TIPS COACH GLENN:

1. Identify which of these 10 habits you already excel at and which need improvement.
2. Set small daily goals to reinforce these habits in both sport and business.
3. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who embody these traits.

Share this blog with your friends, colleagues, and fellow athletes who strive for excellence in sport and business!