PIE

Three interactive experiences in 2019, reminded me of the significance of PIE. I’m not referencing the edible kind (or indeed Pi the number), rather I am noting an easily-remembered acronym which might serve as a useful performance prompt.

1. Participate and Plan

Woody Allen said “80% of success is showing up”. I have experienced this time and time again in my life. I think the key is to not overthink it. If there is an opportunity to participate in something which adds value then seize it. However, in addition to participating, use your awareness of the value of planning, to enhance the value of your participation.

Last year I experienced this in a fun “Fathers Football Festival” at my children’s school. There was an opportunity to participate and even though it was simple fun, some mental preparation and team focus led to a win in this fun comp. One afternoon of friendly collaboration probably achieved more than a year of brief conversations with those same Dads in the local park! Participation led to genuine rapport and respectful “peerpreciation”.

2. Inspire Intentionally

Lao-Tzu said “A leader is best when people barely know he exists…when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will all say: We did it ourselves.”

Last year I faced a dilemma when a paired CrossFit competition I’d wanted to enter with a good friend, clashed with a company charity-challenge. Selfishly I wanted to go and do the CrossFit comp because the sport of fitness is my passion outside of home and work, but intuitively I knew that as a leader at work I should set an example and be Involved to serve the team.

I listened to my gut and committed to the work outing. More importantly I realised that for some colleagues involved, the obstacle course would be daunting so I revised my role and tried to serve team-morale as we progressed. Some of the group revealed true bravery as they crossed a personal “edge”. At the end, there was a justified sense of pride within the group who had “shown up”. I was reminded of the importance of involvement, and of intentional inspiration during purposeful perspiration.

3. Execute and Excel

Having grown as a CrossFit “Masters” athlete and enjoyed participation in a few paired competitions, I knew it was time to step up and participate as an individual in a respected UK Throwdown.

I selected the Castle Games and completed the qualifiers for the “veterans” division during the early months of 2019. It was advertised that the top 20 for my age-group would qualify. After the final qualifying workout, I was 19th!

The competition itself was in Middlesbrough so my family decided to combine a trip down from Aberdeen for my comp, with a weekend breakaway. I realised that there was some sacrifice involved in the endeavour so my mind turned to readiness for the event, and then executing to my potential. As such, I ensured that my mindset, method, and mood were geared up to help me master my best.

In the end, I exceeded my own expectations and managed to podium in 3rd place. I also won an event which was the highlight of my day. It was a humbling experience but a valuable reference point for me regarding excellent execution. There is a personal formula to be followed. This can and must be refined through personal experience and through learning from the best. It can and must always improve…

In summary, this particular PIE stands for Prepare, Inspire, Execute. It might not look too appetising but it tends to leave a very satisfying aftertaste. Give it a try.