“Ability is what you are capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.”

–  Lou Holtz – Former Football Coach and Author

The current economic climate is very challenging for most small and medium sized businesses. They may have the ability and the motivation, but the right attitude can make a massive difference in their ability to continue to grow and prosper in a difficult market. The opportunities to grow are still there, maybe even more than ever because many businesses have been forced to shut down or pause. So, how do you stay focused and continue to get results?

With Golf Courses closed at the moment I have found myself revisiting past major wins for Irish golfers like Shane Lowry and Rory McIllroy. One of the most memorable ones was Padráig Harrington’s win at “The Open” a few years ago and it was amazing to see his attitude on the 17th hole with his 2nd shot onto the green, giving him an eagle and 4 shot lead with one hole to play. He was so determined and so focused that you could feel the intensity through the TV screen. When Padráig is focused he sticks his tongue out to one side and his eyes widen like big saucers. He had that same intensity and concentration when he won his first Major event. It is the same expression you see on the face of a child when concentrating on one task. Padráig doesn’t always have that level of focus because it is hard to reproduce every week. In fact many players who win a major event find it hard to reproduce the same feat again. How do they stay focused, how do they keep the right attitude?

How did Padráig do it? Well afterwards he explained, during his award speech, that he has a family and support team behind him, they make the difference. He has a caddy, Ronan, who he said kept him positive and smiling over the 4 days. The caddie’s role is to be there with the tools of trade, provide advice, guidance and experience but above all keep the mind focused and positive. Two heads are much better than one in this case and Ronan gets a very nice paycheque for his efforts. Who is your caddy? Who helps you maintain the right attitude and keeps you focused?

Think of a Business Coach as your business caddy, someone who helps you get the best from your business, always there to support you and encourage you, so you can play at the top of your game.

Richard P.Cullen – ActionCOACH Business Coaching – The Worlds #1 Business Coaching Firm