The Formula of Success: What Most High Performers Still Get Wrong

What if success - real, fulfilling, sustainable success - wasn’t a mystery?
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In life, most people chase success or happiness as an objective, a single goal to have or to be, or not …

In my work as a business executive, athlete, coach, and social life husband, father, son, …  I’ve sat across from elite athletes, startup founders, CEOs, and high-performing professionals. Despite their vastly different domains, the conversations often revolve around the same core question of success.

What if it was a mindset leading to a formula? I am introducing the Formula of Success (TFOS), which we will explore deeper in the following weeks, item per item.

The Formula

Success = ∑ (Time) ∑(Focus) (Preparation × Vision × Courage) + Luck - Goal

Where:

• Time (T): The Invisible Force. Time either compounds your gains or quietly erodes them. Rushed people often overact, underthink, and burn out. But those who treat time as an ally develop deeper mastery, build richer lives, and stay grounded in every phase of success. In the pursuit of success, Time is an ally.
• Focus Areas (F): The Width of Life. Success is multidimensional. It’s not just podium finishes, business wins, or external validation. It’s health, connection, purpose, energy, and long-term fulfillment across all areas that matter to you. TFOS helps you design that kind of success, without the burnout, ego traps, or regrets.
• Preparation (P): The Foundation. Preparation is your skillset, knowledge, routines, and recovery systems, your readiness to perform. Every step in life is preparation for the next. Continuous learning is the pilar of success. It’s the part that takes the most conscious effort. Without it, even when opportunities arise, you won’t even recognize them or be able to act on them when you do.
• Vision (V): The Opportunity Sensor. Vision isn’t a rigid five-year plan. In TFOS, vision means keeping an open mind, staying curious, and actively scanning for opportunity. It’s about noticing patterns, listening to others, adapting, and zooming out. Vision keeps you from missing the doors, life quietly opens while you're focused on one locked gate.
• Courage (C): The Engine That Moves It All, Courage includes action. But it’s not mindless hustle. It’s intentional boldness,  the kind that steps forward even when the path is uncertain and fear is present. Preparation and vision set the stage, but courage is what gets you out there. It’s the ultimate differentiator between dreamers, planners and performers.
• Luck (L): The Amplifier. Yes, luck matters. But it’s not a coin toss. You can’t control it, but you can increase its chances, by moving, by saying yes, by putting yourself in the right rooms, at the right times. TFOS positions luck as a serial multiplier. It rewards the bold and prepared. But it isn’t everything. On average you will be 50% lucky across different Times and Focus Areas.
• Goals (G): The Compass. Goals provide structure. They direct energy. But goals need context, especially in high performers who often set them aggressively. Set clear, motivating goals, but understand the difference between a standard to grow toward and a definition of self-worth. That distinction matters more than most realize.

 
Mind You: The Real Risks Behind Missing Factors

Understanding TFOS isn’t just about knowing the elements, it’s about recognizing the dangers of imbalance. Here are the key patterns I’ve seen derail the driven:

• P × V × C Is a Multiplication – Not a Suggestion. In the TFOS formula, Preparation × Vision × Courage is a multiplication. That means if any one of these is zero, the result is zero.
  • Vision x Courage without Preparation. You act fast. You see opportunity. But you're not ready. This leads to burnout, broken trust, and avoidable mistakes. It's the most dangerous combo.
  • Preparation x Courage without Vision. You’re skilled and willing. But your mind is closed. You miss the bigger picture. And you’ll likely blame others’ “luck” for why they succeed while you stay stuck without opportunities.
  • Preparation x Vision without Courage. You know the play. You see the moment. But you freeze. Dreams remain dreams. Plans stay perfect—but unused.
• Don’t only Focus on the Outcome, but the Process. You chase the finish line without respecting the journey. This obsession leads to rushed actions, skipped preparation, and declining courage. Treating time as an ally, not a threat, creates a more sustainable path to real success. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
• Narrow Success in One Life Area. If you define success only by your career—or your sport—you’re placing all your chips on one bet. You risk losing your family life, health, or personal growth. That’s an all-or-nothing game. And even if you win, the cost may be too high. Just consider how important health was to Steve Jobs despite his career success.
• Misunderstanding Luck. Luck matters, but not always. It's phase-based, not binary. Sometimes, you're in a lucky cycle, ride it. Other times, you're not, wait it out, don't panic. Success is a long game. Sunshine always follows the storm.
• Overreliance on Ambitious Goals. Big goals are great motivators, but if set too high, they can become demotivating and crippling. Differentiate between goals and aspirations. Aim for the best-case scenario, but let your definition of success be grounded, not fragile.

 
Final Thought

The Formula of Success isn’t theoretical; it’s based on life. It doesn’t guarantee a walk in the park, but it gives you a framework to make clear decisions, steady progress, and meaningful reflections, no matter what your field or ambition. It’s the system behind sustainable peak performance, but you still have to do it.

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:

• Reflect on how you're defining success across all areas of life or not, and see if you are not missing some key Focus Areas that you are very successful in already.
• Rate yourself (1–10) on each factor: Preparation, Vision, Courage, Luck, Goals, and Time. Identify where you're strong and where you're stuck
• Start realigning, not in months, but today, with one small act of courage or curiosity

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​In business, sport, and life, there are only three real levers to pull when you're in transition: Learn, Earn, and Turn. I use them every time I step into a new interim leadership role, and recently, I realized something powerful: this model doesn't just apply to companies, it applies in your personal life, too.

LEARN: The Outside-In Advantage

The first month in any new organization is like landing on a foreign planet. You don’t walk in with a hammer looking for nails. You listen, observe, and go beyond surface-level reports. You look for the hidden currents; what people aren’t saying, what gets swept under the rug or are hidden in plain sight - the forest through the trees, and where the friction lies between teams, tech, or targets. This isn’t passive. It’s active listening paired with curiosity.

And guess what? The same applies to your personal growth. Whether in business or endurance sport, most of us are too close to our routines to see what’s outdated, inefficient, or just plain wrong. You need to zoom out to level up. Keep questioning what you are doing. Learn from friends, colleagues, books and online videos. Get a coach to get an outside perspective.

EARN: Quick Wins Build Long-Term Trust

Month two is where I shift into gear. I’m still learning, but now I’m applying it. I go after low-hanging fruit, the quick, smart, meaningful wins. Surfacing hidden truths and highlighting process inefficiencies that have grown over time, but weren't being questioned anymore as "they had always been done that way." These aren't cosmetic fixes, they’re evidence. Evidence that change is possible. Evidence that I understand the system. In a corporate setting, it might be a process improvement or cross-industry best practice.

In life, it might be changing your morning routine or adjusting your swim stroke. When you implement something small that works, you start to trust the process. Consistency is key to materialize the growth. Earn your self-respect by keeping to it. Make the change ! Without that, the next step falls flat.
 
TURN: Lead the Way Forward—Together

Now comes the pivot. This is when you go from outsider to change leader. But here’s the trick: you don’t dictate the turn, you co-create it. You share the patterns you’ve seen, tie them back to people within the organization, and help them connect the dots. They need to see their own fingerprints on the new direction. You don’t just turn the wheel, you help others grip it with you.

In sport, this might look like finally embracing structured training, listening to your coach, or leaving behind old habits that no longer serve you. It’s not about reinventing everything; it’s about turning towards something better, together. This is also why it is important to educate your athlete so they can see and believe why they change their habits. You can not force them as a coach, they need to be willing to join you on that journey.

Why This Model Applies to YOU (Yes, You)

Here’s the punchline: until recently, I didn’t see that I needed to apply this to myself. My blind spot? Assuming that personal evolution was automatic. It’s not. In an era of AI, rapid tech shifts, and aging knees (let’s be honest), we all need to continually learn, earn, and turn. The minute we stop learning, we start falling behind. The minute we stop earning trust with others, or with ourselves, we lose our edge. And if we never turn, we stay stuck in habits that no longer match our ambitions.

Executive Athletes, Take Note

If you're an executive triathlete reading this, the metaphor writes itself. You’ve been training for years. You know how to suffer. You’ve got the Garmin- Strava - TriDot log to prove it. But what if your plan is stale? What if your "strengths" are now your blind spots? A coach isn’t there to tear you down. They’re there to learn your rhythm, earn your trust with a few smart tweaks, and then help you turn toward your next breakthrough. That takes humility. It takes openness. And it takes a mindset that’s more about growth than ego.

So ask yourself:

• What are you learning right now?
• What are you earning with that knowledge?
• And where are you ready to turn?

​Because if you're not doing all three, you’re standing still.

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:

• Audit your week: What part of your training or work is just ‘auto-pilot’? Flag it.
• Find your outside-in lens: Talk to someone who isn’t in your team or training circle.
• Make one turn: Don’t wait for a crisis to course-correct. Small shifts add up.

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​How to Stay Lean Without Losing Your Edge
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Let’s face it—executive life is demanding. Meetings, deadlines, travel, and decision fatigue hit hard and fast before most people have their second coffee. But staying lean? That doesn’t require a sabbatical or a personal chef. It requires systems, not willpower. These 10 daily habits are how high-performing execs stay lean, focused, and ready for anything.

1. No Alcohol

Elite executives either cut it out completely or reserve it for rare, intentional moments. Why? Because alcohol is a triple threat: it spikes appetite, adds empty calories, and delays fat loss. Want to stay sharp and lean? Keep the champagne for the truly special deals.

2. 10,000+ Steps a Day

Lean execs engineer movement into their day. Walking meetings, stairs over elevators, parking far away, walking around the office while on speaker, … these are micro-habits that add up. 10K steps isn’t a number; it’s a mindset. Your day is your gym.

3. Endurance Training is Foundational

Want to build staying power? Prioritize endurance. Think early morning fasted cardio runs, bike sessions during virtual calls and webinars, or treadmill walks with a podcast. Zone 2 training is gold - low stress & high return. You’re not training to collapse on the finish line; you’re training to outlast the chaos.

4. Weightlifting is Critical for Durability

Muscle is your metabolic engine and your injury insurance. Resistance training 2–3x per week builds not just strength, but resilience. No time for the gym? Knock out bodyweight exercises during the day at the office: squats, push-ups, lunges or use resistance bands and work on your core strengthening while watching TV at night. Strength isn’t vanity, it’s strategy.

5. Sleep: The Silent Performance Enhancer

Lean execs treat sleep like a board meeting, with priority and purpose. Aim for 7–8 hours a night, ideally in 90-minute cycles. Quality sleep reduces cravings, boosts recovery, regulates hormones, and sharpens your mood and focus. Ignore sleep, and your performance will tank over time.
 
6. They Keep Themselves Honest

You can’t optimize what you don’t track. Always wear your sports watch or OURA ring, weigh in regularly and log your steps. Lean execs know their numbers as if it were there body balance sheet and PNL. This isn’t about six-packs. It’s about self-leadership. What gets measured gets managed.

7. Real Food Dominates Their Plates

Forget fads. The lean lifestyle is built on eggs, steak, chicken, fruit, and vegetables. Protein and fiber are the anchors. Processed food? Enjoy it—but rarely. Your taste buds can be retrained to crave clarity over convenience. If your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize it, neither should your metabolism.

8. Breathing Excellence Powers Performance

High performers don’t just manage time, they manage breath. During training, techniques like LRC (Locomotor Respiratory Coupling) enhance endurance. At work? Box breathing and nasal breathing calm stress, boost clarity, and drop cortisol. Breathe better. Lead better.

9. Embrace Discipline

Motivation is fickle. Discipline is freedom. These execs don’t wait to “feel like it”—they show up regardless. They train when tired, eat clean when stressed, and follow the plan when it’s inconvenient. As Aristotle said: “You are what you repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit.”

10. It’s Part of Their Identity

This isn’t about hacks. It’s about habits embedded in who they are. Every action is a vote for the person they want to become. And when they slip? They reset, not retreat. It’s about standards—and surrounding yourself with the kind of people who raise yours.

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:

• Schedule movement breaks like meetings.
• Block 30 mins daily for endurance or strength—even if it’s broken into 3 x 10-minute bursts.
• Practice box breathing before big pitches or intense workouts.

Share this blog/newsletter with your friends, family, and colleagues who are also pursuing a sportier and healthier lifestyle!

(inspired by post Dan Go)

How to Use the Balanced Scorecard to Level-Up Your Triathlon Performance

As a triathlete, your success isn’t just about race day; it’s the product of hundreds of small, strategic decisions over many weeks and months: your training execution, technical development, feedback absorption, and physiological readiness.
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But how do you ensure you're progressing on all fronts, not just checking off workouts? Enter the Balanced Scorecard (BSC), a powerful framework borrowed from business strategy that translates exceptionally well to high-performance sport.

2. Applying the Balanced Scorecard to Triathlon Training

2.1 Performance Output (Financial Perspective)
This is the top-line metric: what you're delivering on race day. These are your ultimate KPIs that every other layer contributes toward.


Key KPIs:

• Speed (km/h or mph) – Typically tracked via GPS watch or bike computer, this is the ultimate output, but is impacted by environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, wind, race course,…)
• Pace (min/km or min/mi) – Your average split per distance unit, linked to speed, but focusing on the time. This depends on the personal choice of the athlete.
• Power (watts) – On the bike or the run, use a power meter to measure your effort output objectively. Contrary to speed, pace and heart rate, this is the direct effort generate by the body In the most straight and responsive way.
• Total Time per Segment and Overall Race Time – The benchmark for Personal Bests, Podium targets or Championship goal setting.

 
2.2 Indirect Performance Indicators (Customer Perspective)
You can't race weekly, so use predictive indicators that are closely correlated with your race outcomes.


Key KPIs:

• VO₂max – Lab-tested or estimated via smart watches. Reflects aerobic engine size and indirectly affects the maximum power, speed and pacing relative to your body composition.
• FTP (Functional Threshold Power) – Power you can sustain for 60 min. Often assessed every 4-6 weeks in shorter test protocols. Ideally tested on a per sport basis to overcome generalization error. It is diagnostic and predictive to your performance output.
• PBs at Key Distances – Time trials at 5K, 10K, or sprint triathlons to assess race-readiness.
• Max Strength Outputs – in certain trainings phases strength might be a great indicator of strength evolution as to how it will translate into endurance speed, relative to previous months and sessions. It also is a great indicator for body durability to absorb the future training.
• RPE Trends (Relative Perceived Exertion) – Subjective score (1-10) per session to monitor training load vs. perceived fatigue. Comparing RPE over fixed speeds and paces, provides a subjective indication to the coach and athlete on how well the body is responding holistically.

2.3 Execution Excellence (Internal Process Perspective)
This is how well you're executing your training plan qualitatively and consistently. Doing the right training right is important to gaining the maximum return of your training input. Secondly, the fastest gains are made by consistently working on marginal incremental gains, allowing the body to continuously adapt, with sufficient recovery to avoid injuries

Key KPIs:

• Total Weekly Training Hours – For beginners a minimum volume is needed to start the process. Once you get to a minimum treshhold volume is less indicative and training quality becomes more relevant. Volume across swim, bike, run, and strength.
• Time in Zones – Heart rate or power zones per discipline. Shows quality of execution. The quality can be monitored by comparing the actual time spend in the training zones versus the prescribed training. We are assuming optimally designed trainings (for instance by TriDot)
• Sessions Completed as Planned – % of scheduled sessions actually completed. The number of sessions per sport is also an important metric. For a triathlon it would not matter if you did all the bike trainings, but skipped all the swims. The nr of trainings per sport executed on a weekly basis is an important metric.
• XP and TrainX Scores (TriDot-specific) – The best process metric in the market is the TrainX scores on Tridot. The trainings are prescribed based on personal capabilities, location and training phase for every individual sport. How well you execute these training consistently can increase you performance with 30% over any other training regiment.

2.4 Skill Development & Capacity (Learning & Growth Perspective)
This is your engine for future performance, both mental and technical. It is the longest term metric is what you spend in learning and development from nutrition to sports technique. This will obviously not affect your results tomorrow, but will impact your performance ove 2-4 seasons to a longevity career as an age grouper.
You can either go at this alone, DIY style, or maximize the impact and catch up – if you started later in life – by working with a coach and learning from their experience.

Key KPIs:

• Coach Feedback: Do you have a coach and are you actually implementing their input or just winging it?
• Swim TPS/Bike/Run Technical Assessments: You can do your own research by watching youtube videos, join swim, bike and run clubs or have virtual video analysis  done. The key is to have a focus on it. In most cases a 1% gain in technique will have a multiple return in speed or ease. There is no better way to get faster, than to get better. A great example is the Tridot Pool School, which average a 13% improvement in a 2 day swim class regiment.
• Reading: There are multiple books on triathlon and training and it is important to find the right one for you. As an executive check out “The Executive Triathlete” where you find more info on triathlon and how to implement the lessons and strategies in the boardroom. They actually also have a GPT to get you direct answers to your questions.
• Certifications: If you really want to know  more, you can always study and try to get certified as an ironman U coach.
• Skill Sharing:  The best way to learn is to teach, or to share your knowledge with others.  (social accountability loop).

3. Implementing the Balanced Scorecard for Triathletes
Here’s how to move from theory to action:

1. Step 1: Define SMART KPIs:  Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals per BSC quadrant. Example: “Increase FTP by 10 watts in 8 weeks.”
2. Step 2: Automate Tracking: Use tools that capture KPIs for you. Sync Garmin, TriDot, Strava, and HRV apps so your data flows effortlessly.
3. Step 3: Monthly BSC Review: Create a 4-quadrant visual (like your image!) and spend 15 minutes reviewing progress, bottlenecks, and trends.
4. Step 4: Link the Layers:  Ask: “What did I learn this month that improved my execution?” “What execution gains shifted my VO₂max?” Map cause-effect.
5. Step 5: Create a Quarterly Action Plan: Each quarter, focus on a different layer: Q1: Build skills - Q2: Nail execution - Q3: Monitor physiology - Q4: Crush performance
   
6. Step 6: Adjust as You Evolve
   

4. Conclusion: The Key to Unlocking Your Triathlon Success
Applying the Balanced Scorecard to your triathlon training gives you clarity, structure, and actionable feedback loops on the short and long term. You're no longer just hoping to improve, you’re engineering it. You’ll be able to see the chain reaction from learning a better swim technique, to executing sessions better, to watching your FTP climb, to smashing your next PR.

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. Be Consistent: It’s the unsexy consistency across all four BSC layers that builds championship-level athletes.
2. Track Your Progress: What gets measured gets improved. Keep your KPI dashboard visible.

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Train Like a Triathlete, Think Like a CFO

Triathlon training isn’t just about crossing the finish line. It’s about mastering patience, resilience, and smart decision-making over time. Ironically, those same principles form the foundation of great financial leadership. From managing risk and navigating downturns to understanding your numbers with precision, athletes in training are unknowingly shaping themselves into CFOs in the making.

Here’s how training for triathlons can help you become a master of finance—whether you're managing personal wealth, your company’s budget, or long-term investor expectations.

1. Risk Management – Every Effort Has a Price

In triathlon, going too hard in one discipline can cost you in the next. It’s about knowing when to push and when to build reserves. For example, a savvy athlete studies wind direction and coasts with a tailwind, saving energy for when things inevitably get tough. The goal isn’t to dominate early, it’s to finish strong when others are fading.

In finance, the same logic applies. Overleveraging or overcommitting resources when the economy is booming can leave you exposed when the environment shifts. The best CFOs are patient during good times and courageous during downturns. They know that the best investments often come when the competition is on its knees.

2. Long-Term Planning – From Base Training to Balance Sheets

You can’t prepare for a full-distance triathlon in four weeks and no solid financial strategy is built on short-term wins. Endurance athletes think in training blocks: base, build, peak, taper. They know when to build organically and when to invest in upgrades that truly matter. Buying a new bike, shoes, or other expensive race gear does not make a lot of sense if you are not first performing at your best physical capabilites. Buying a 5000 EUR aero-triathlon bike, does not  add value if you can't even hit 25kmh first.

Finance leaders benefit from this same mindset. Map out your fiscal year with long-term vision, monitor organic growth, and know when strategic acquisitions can elevate your platform. Whether it’s a new market, technology, or partnership—timing, readiness, and financial health determines if you’re ready to scale.

3. Diversification Is Resilience

Triathlon’s structure - swim, bike, run - naturally builds a diversified, resilient athlete. If one discipline falters, the others carry the load. Triathletes train their weakest sport the most, knowing that total performance matters more than a flashy split.

In finance, diversification across asset classes, markets, and product lines does the same. You might be dominant in one area now, but overdependence creates fragility. Any disruption - political, economic, social, or technological (PEST) - can shake that foundation. Strong, stable companies build resilience through balance.

4. Crisis Response – Stay Calm, Stay the Course

A flat tire at km 60. A bonk at km 120. Triathletes expect the unexpected and train mental toughness for it. As Sun Tzu wrote, “No battle plan survives first contact with the enemy.” The athlete’s secret? They stay calm, adapt quickly, and protect their mental bandwidth.

The same goes for finance. Market crashes, competitor surprises, or client losses are part of the game. Yet too often, businesses scramble without a plan. Executives who train like triathletes visualize setbacks in advance, create contingency plans, and rehearse recovery so the organization stays steady, no matter the chaos.

5. Metrics that Matter – Predict the Outcome

Speed and pace are outputs. The real work happens in the inputs: heart rate, watts, cadence, VO2 max. Triathletes focus on these months before race day. They also optimize their schedules, recovery, gear, and technique to give those numbers meaning.

In finance, revenue and profit are outputs. A smart CFO goes deeper: development metrics, operational efficiency, customer acquisition costs, innovation velocity, are causal and correlated metrics in the Balanced Scorecard (Kaplan & Norton). These are the building blocks of a predictive finance engine. Track them early, understand their impact, and fine-tune for the result, just like an athlete.

Conclusion

Mastering finance like a triathlete means thinking ahead, training for resilience, and managing wisely over time. The result? A sharper, more strategic financial mindset, ready to lead in work and in 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:

• Create a “race plan” for your next fiscal year—but also map out what could go wrong and build backup plans.
• Focus on the leading indicators in your Balanced Scorecard, not just the financial outputs. Strengthen and “train” what comes before the money.
• When the business is booming, build a reserve. The next market dip will come – guaranteed - and those with cash on hand will have the pick of the field for M&A and growth.

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What Triathlon Can Teach You About Operations Mastery:
​Top Lessons for Operational Excellence from the World of Endurance Sports

Whether you're managing a production line or racing through a triathlon course, the principles of success are surprisingly similar. Triathlon may seem like an individual sport, but in reality, it’s a masterclass in operational excellence. From optimizing transitions to planning recovery, every aspect of racing mirrors the dynamics of efficient business operations.

Let’s break down the key parallels between elite triathlon performance and high-functioning operations—and how you can apply racecourse lessons to improve your workflows.
 

1. Eliminate Waste Like You Would in T1 or T2
In Lean Thinking, waste is the enemy of efficiency. In triathlon, wasted seconds in transition zones (T1 and T2) can cost you a podium spot. That’s why elite athletes streamline, prepare, and synchronize every movement. Everything is positioned in the right place, in the right order, to minimize time and reduce the risk of mistakes.

The same applies to operations. Whether it’s redundant approvals, manual handovers, or disorganized tools and components, identifying and eliminating unnecessary steps can drastically improve flow. The goal? Seamless execution, no dead time.
 
2. Standardization Builds Speed and Efficiency

Triathletes don’t just train hard—they train smart. Repetition engrains patterns until transitions, fueling, and pacing become second nature. Every swim stroke is refined and repeated thousands of times to maximize economy and consistency.

In business, standard operating procedures (SOPs) provide the same advantage. Precision in process, supported by standardized workflows, reduces errors, boosts speed, and builds trust across teams.
 
3. Real-Time Problem Solving: Your Race Day Survival Kit

Every triathlete knows that even the best-laid plans can go sideways—a flat tire, a lost nutrition bottle, a sudden heatwave. Top performers adapt instantly and keep moving. They also don’t race at 100% effort from the start. They build in physical and mental buffers to handle the unexpected.

Operations are no different. Disruptions like supply chain issues, equipment failures, or staffing shortages will happen. That’s why you must train your team to manage a wide range of scenarios. Build resilience into your systems. And remember—if you’re always running at full capacity, you have no buffer to absorb shocks. Build in flex. That’s how you stay in the race when surprises hit.
 
4. Data-Driven Decisions, Automation, and Optimization: Win Races and Markets

Elite athletes don’t rely on guesswork. They train with AI-driven tools that track power, heart rate, recovery, and sleep. Training without data is like sailing without a compass.

The same goes for businesses. Process automation, real-time KPI dashboards, and predictive analytics are your power meter. If you’re not leveraging tech to reduce manual effort and optimize performance, you’re falling behind. The future of operations is smart, data-driven, and proactive. The real question is: Are you using data to evolve—or just to report?
 
5. Think End-to-End: A Triathlon Is More Than the Finish Line

A triathlon isn’t just swim, bike, run—it includes pre-race nutrition, transitions, pacing strategies, and post-race recovery. Winning means planning the entire journey.

The same is true in operations. Siloed thinking leads to inefficiencies and breakdowns. View your supply chain holistically—from raw material sourcing to final delivery. Every decision has downstream effects. Operational excellence comes from end-to-end integration.
 
6. Schedule Maintenance—For Machines and Humans Alike

In sport, you break down muscle to build it back stronger. But without recovery, that breakdown leads to overload, injury, and eventually, burnout. Recovery isn’t optional—it’s strategic.

In operations, preventive maintenance serves the same role. Maximum output is only sustainable when small, regular interventions prevent catastrophic failures. Protect your machines—and your people—with smart scheduling and recovery practices.
 
7. Fueling and Just-in-Time Management: It’s All About Timing

Triathletes must fuel at the right moments. Hydration, electrolytes, and carbs aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re performance drivers. Timing matters. Fuel too late, and you bonk. Fuel too early, and you waste energy.

The same precision applies to Just-in-Time (JIT) inventory and energy management in operations. It's not about chance—it’s about timing, flow, and consistency. Discipline in logistics enables production to run at full capacity without overload or shortage.
 
Conclusion: Operational Mastery Is an Endurance Sport

Operations, like triathlon, are about sustained excellence over time. It’s not a sprint. It’s a strategic, data-driven journey of continuous improvement.

Your business wins when every team, system, and decision aligns—just like a triathlete who nails every segment of their race.
 
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:

• Visualize your workflow like a triathlon course: transitions, pacing, fueling, and recovery must all be planned.
• Use downtime to improve uptime. Train your people like you train your body.
• Invest in data and automation now, so future gains compound fast.

 
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Sales Mastery Through The Triathlete Mindset
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What Triathlon Can Teach You About Sales Mastery : Top 5 Lessons for Sales Professionals from the World of Endurance Sports

In the world of triathlon, there’s no shortcut to the finish line, only consistency, grit, and adaptation. As a sales professional, that should sound familiar. The journey from prospecting to closing mirrors a triathlon: unpredictable, high-stakes, and exhilarating. Whether you're chasing quarterly targets or your next Ironman finish line, the mindset is remarkably similar.
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Here are five powerful lessons that triathlon can teach every sales pro seeking to go from good to unstoppable:

1. Handling Rejection with Resilience

Triathletes get battered by waves, wind, cramps, and mechanical issues and they keep going. Salespeople? We get "no" more often than "yes."

Just like finishing a race despite setbacks, winning in sales means learning from the “no’s,” not being defined by them. Each triathlon obstacle is a learning opportunity to do better next time. Each sales rejection is a rep in mental toughness, sharpening your ability to bounce back stronger, with better timing, sharper objections handling, and renewed energy.

2. Goal-Driven Systems Win Races (and Quotas)

Triathletes don’t just show up to race day. Every session, from base-building to brick workouts, serves a purpose. Likewise, top sales performers break down annual goals into weekly metrics: calls made, emails sent, follow-ups, and demos booked.

Think beyond quotas. Set "process goals" (e.g., 10 new outreach messages daily) and "outcome goals" (e.g., $500K in closed revenue). That dual focus mirrors training: consistent action + clear destination, small daily steps which build momentum and change careers.

3. Energy Management is Your Secret Weapon

In a race, pushing too hard on the bike can sabotage the run. In sales, burning out early in the month or day with too much outbound can leave you flat when deals are ready to close.

Triathletes master energy distribution. You should too. Know when to sprint, when to recover, and when to push through the wall. As with triathlon training  like Tridot, Sales people use tools like calendar blocking and CRM reminders to structure your daily rhythm and protect recovery time too. Mental freshness wins.

4. Adaptability Beats Perfection

Triathlon conditions are never perfect - open water might be choppy, your bike might slip a gear, or it could be scorching hot. Similarly, sales doesn’t live in a vacuum. Prospects ghost. Budgets get slashed. Competition undercuts you. Customers block sales with a myriad of objections.

We all know “No battle plan survives contact with the enemy” (Sun Tzu).

Triathlete do not only train the perfect plan, but prepare for negative outcomes and obstacle. The more issues you train to overcome, the more relaxed you get to the start and the more brain power you keep to be adaptive for what new comes your way.

Sales leaders must too prepare for the unexpected. Listen actively. Shift your pitch. Reframe your value. Be comfortable rewriting your script in real time.

5. Confidence is Built in the Dark

Nobody watches the 5 AM swims or 4-hour rides in the rain. But that’s where champions are made. Likewise, your early-morning outreach, late-night follow-ups, and quiet learning moments (yes, even the podcasts and role-plays) are what shape your success.

Confidence in sales isn’t bravado, t’s built on hard effort. Like triathletes, your consistency behind the scenes creates the poise needed when the big opportunity lands in your inbox.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Just in Sales. You’re in the Business of Endurance.

Triathlon isn’t about being the fastest, it’s about being the most prepared, the most consistent, and the most mentally tough. And so is sales.

If you want to close bigger deals, lead stronger conversations, and outlast the competition, consider what a triathlon lifestyle can teach you:

• Train your mind like you train your pipeline.
• Build daily habits that compound over time.
• Embrace discomfort—it’s the birthplace of growth.

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:

Triathlon teaches you to think long-term while executing short-term. That’s the true art of sales mastery. Consistent small steps are much more important that that one quarter you overshot your target with 50%. Becoming a successful sales lead is about transformation and continuous learning. So focus on the input - the process and progress - and regardless of your monthly goal, you will master sales.

Share this blog/newsletter with your friends, family, and colleagues who are also pursuing a sportier and healthier lifestyle!
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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!

Imagine this: you’ve just completed a major race season or wrapped up a high-pressure business quarter. The temptation to stop, relax, and take an extended break is strong. After all, you’ve earned it. But what happens when you come back from that break? Stopping entirely, whether in triathlon training or business, doesn’t just mean pressing pause - it often means losing momentum. When you return, you’re starting from scratch, undoing months of progress.

Now consider the alternative: continuing your training through the off-season, not with the same intensity, but with strategic focus on speed, strength, and recovery. This approach isn’t about grinding harder; it’s about setting the foundation for a leap to the next level, both mentally and physically. Rather than falling behind, you’re preparing to move ahead - using the off-season to fine-tune skills, build resilience, and sharpen your competitive edge. In business, as in sport, this is the way forward.

Here’s how off-season training can transform not only an athlete’s performance but also the leadership of a forward-thinking executive.

1. Recovery as Rejuvenation: From Rest to Preparation

The off-season begins with recovery, where the body and mind recharge from the previous season. For triathletes, this means healing from physical fatigue, allowing muscles to repair and refocusing mentally after the demands of competition. However, recovery is not the same as stopping. It’s an essential part of the process, a time to reset and rebuild strength for the next challenge.

For executives, recovery plays a similar role. After completing a major project or fiscal year, stepping back to reassess, reflect, and re-energize is critical. Just as athletes need to restore themselves physically, leaders need to rejuvenate mentally, ensuring they are primed for the next phase of growth. This recovery then transitions into pre-season preparation, where you shift gears, focusing on building the foundation for the challenges ahead—whether that’s the next race or the next business cycle.

2. Speed and Strength: Building Toward Next Season’s Performance

TriDot’s off-season philosophy focuses not on endurance but on speed and strength. Athletes use this period to refine their explosiveness, agility, and power, knowing that a solid foundation of strength will allow them to excel when endurance training picks up later in the year. It’s about making strategic gains now to achieve faster race times and peak performance in the future.

For executives, this phase is about sharpening the tools that will give you a competitive advantage. Whether it’s enhancing team skills, streamlining processes, or investing in technology, this is the time to focus on strategic, high-impact improvements that allow your business to operate more efficiently and adapt quickly to changes. Much like athletes preparing for their next season, business leaders who focus on speed and strength now will be better prepared to capitalize on opportunities as they arise.

3. Addressing Weaknesses: Strengthening for the Long Game

The off-season is also the time to address weaknesses—those areas that might have held you back in the previous season. For triathletes, this might mean refining swim technique, improving core strength, or building greater power on the bike. TriDot’s AI insights help athletes target these areas specifically, ensuring each workout contributes to long-term progress.

In the executive world, the off-season provides a similar opportunity. Whether it’s refining internal processes, upskilling your team, or exploring innovative solutions to persistent challenges, this is your chance to eliminate inefficiencies and strengthen your organization’s core. Just as triathletes use the off-season to prepare for upcoming races, business leaders can use this time to ensure they are ready to tackle future market conditions, crises, or opportunities with renewed confidence.

4. Multi-Year Goals: A Long-Term Focus in Both Sports and Business

The most successful athletes and businesses aren’t just thinking about their next season - they’re focused on multi-year goals. Each off-season builds upon the last, with every training block designed to feed into long-term success. For triathletes, this means understanding that gains made now may not be fully realized until future seasons, where cumulative improvements lead to personal bests.

For executives, this long-term view is equally crucial. An off-season isn’t just about preparing for the next quarter or year—it’s about setting up the groundwork for sustained success. Whether that means investing in new technology, entering new markets, or developing leadership within your team, the decisions you make during quieter times will have a profound impact on your long-term business trajectory.


5. AI-Driven Insights: Maximizing Efficiency for Long-Term Performance

TriDot’s use of AI-driven insights ensures that athletes are training smarter, not harder. AI personalizes workouts, focusing on areas where athletes can make the greatest gains, and ensuring they don’t overtrain. This precision ensures every moment of training is aligned with long-term goals.

In the executive realm, leveraging AI and data analytics provides similar benefits. Leaders can use insights to streamline operations, optimize decision-making, and anticipate market changes. In both sport and business, it’s not just about the effort - it’s about strategic, data-driven action. This ensures that every investment of time and energy during the off-season contributes to achieving your long-term objectives.

Conclusion: Preparing for Long-Term Success

The off-season isn’t a time to pause—it’s a time to prepare for what’s next. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a business executive, how you use this time will shape your future success. Platforms like TriDot help triathletes focus on speed, strength, and strategic improvements, ensuring they start their next season ready to excel. For executives, this period is about recovering from previous challenges, then shifting focus to the next big opportunity.

In both triathlon and business, the off-season isn’t about slowing down; it’s about building momentum, sharpening skills, and laying the groundwork for multi-year success. By embracing the off-season as a time of growth, both athletes and executives can position themselves to leap to the next level when it matters most.


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:
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1. Focus on your family and friends who might have been on the back burner for a few months. They are supporting you, it is time to give back.
2. The season can start very ambitious, but near the end it can become mentally taxing. Also take the time to just enjoy the workout without a plan. Go running or walking with friends or enjoy just a swim or nature bike ride for the fun of it.
3. Keep the long game in mind. With Great Endurance, we are always looking at the consistency of the journey for continuous learning and improvment. Rome wasn't build in a day, but they also did not stop for off-season. :-)

Share this blog/newsletter with your friends, family, and colleagues who are also pursuing a sportier and healthier lifestyle!

The Power of Muscle: Healthier Aging

In the world of triathlons, every athlete knows that physical strength and endurance are key. However, the benefits of building muscle go far beyond performance. What can executives gain from having more muscle?
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Let's explore how developing more muscle can enhance neurobiological function, serve as an endocrine system, manage glucose levels, and improve skeletal strength and bone density.

1. Neurobiological Benefits: The Power of Small Steps

When you engage in regular strength training and muscle-building activities, your brain responds by releasing a cascade of neurochemicals that significantly impact your mood and behavior. Here's how it works:

• Dopamine: This neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure and reward. Each small step in your muscle-building journey, such as lifting a slightly heavier weight or running a bit faster, triggers dopamine release. This creates a positive feedback loop, encouraging you to continue and build healthy habits.
• Endorphins: Often referred to as the body's natural painkillers, endorphins are released during intense exercise. They help to alleviate discomfort and induce a sense of euphoria, commonly known as the "runner's high." Over weeks and months, this regular endorphin release can significantly improve your overall mood and resilience to stress.
• Serotonin: Exercise, particularly in natural light, boosts serotonin levels. This neurotransmitter is crucial for regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. By steadily increasing muscle mass and engaging in regular physical activity, you can enhance your serotonin levels, leading to improved mental health and well-being.
• Oxytocin: Known as the "love hormone," oxytocin is released during social bonding and physical touch. Group workouts, partner exercises, or even the encouragement from a coach can stimulate oxytocin release, fostering a sense of community and support.

By taking small, consistent steps in your fitness routine, you can create lasting changes in your neurobiology, leading to new patterns of behavior, increased motivation, and a healthier mindset.

2. Muscles as an Endocrine System

Muscles do more than just move your body; they also function as an endocrine organ. When muscles contract during exercise, they release signaling molecules known as myokines. These myokines have systemic effects, impacting various organs and tissues:

• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Myokines help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, which is crucial for overall health and recovery.
• Metabolic Regulation: They play a role in regulating metabolism, aiding in the breakdown of fats and sugars, and promoting energy efficiency.
• Immune Function: Some myokines enhance immune function, helping your body to fight off infections and recover from illness more effectively.

The endocrine function of muscles underscores the importance of maintaining muscle mass, not just for physical strength but for overall health and disease prevention.

3. Muscle as a Glucose Management System

One of the critical roles of muscle tissue is in glucose management. Here's how building muscle can help prevent and manage diabetes:

• Glucose Uptake: Muscles are major consumers of glucose. During and after exercise, muscles uptake glucose from the bloodstream to replenish energy stores. This helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
• Insulin Sensitivity: Regular exercise and increased muscle mass enhance insulin sensitivity, meaning your body requires less insulin to manage blood glucose levels effectively. This is particularly beneficial for preventing type 2 diabetes and managing existing diabetes.

By prioritizing muscle growth, you can improve your body's ability to manage glucose, reducing the risk of diabetes and associated complications.

4. Skeletal Strength and Bone Density

Building muscle also has profound effects on your skeletal system:

• Bone Density: Weight-bearing exercises stimulate bone formation and increase bone density. This is crucial for preventing osteoporosis, especially as you age.
• Skeletal Strength: Strong muscles provide better support and stability for your bones and joints. This reduces the risk of injuries and enhances overall mobility and function.

Focusing on muscle growth not only fortifies your muscles but also strengthens your bones, contributing to a robust and resilient musculoskeletal system.

Conclusion

Building muscle is about much more than aesthetics or athletic performance. It is a multifaceted approach to enhancing your neurobiological health, functioning as an endocrine system, managing glucose levels, and improving skeletal strength and bone density. By understanding and leveraging these benefits, you can make informed decisions in your training and lifestyle, leading to a healthier, more balanced life. Start small, stay consistent, and watch as your body and mind transform, step by step.

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:

Building muscle can feel intimidating, especially when you think of bodybuilders with superhuman physiques. However, any increase in muscle activity is a win. You can begin simply with calisthenics, using just your body weight—no extra equipment needed.

Start with small, manageable steps. Every effort you make brings you closer to a healthier, longer life. Embrace the process and enjoy the journey.

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