As we transition through the exciting release of the new Purple Patch systems, as well as the launch of the Tri Squad product, I find myself reminded of some of the key principles of elite performers.  Over the last weeks, Kelli and I have consistently reminded the Purple Patch team that we shouldn’t underestimate the challenge we all face when we go through phases of change, no matter how positive it is.  It doesn’t matter what it is, change it tough. It requires a shift from habits, familiarity, and always requires some investment to ensure the learning curve is as short as possible.

For us, as a team, we have evolved our mindset, systems, and how we communicate and operate.  We are now finding the development of a greater sense of team, improved efficiency, and a path to help our athletes more effectively. It doesn’t mean our internal changes were easy. We now release new systems and are asking you, the athletes, to also change. With this in mind, here is a little secret for you:

Most people are not very good at handling change.  There are not adaptable in nature.

Few of us thrive in chaos, shine in shifting pathways.  Most of us like to sink into a familiar couch or slip on a pair of comfortable shoes, even if we are allured by the concept of change.

There is nothing wrong with this except that it isn’t the world we live in.  It also isn’t realistic if we are stretching the bounds of our own performance.  Remember the Purple Patch saying?:

Evolve or die.

By definition, this is change.  I believe it is critical to grow and improve, but you must become equipped and familiar to adjust, adapt and, yes, change.  So what is the best mindset in sport, work, and life when change happens? How can you become resilient and equipped to thrive within change?

1. Patience:  Don’t judge yourself or the situation as soon as change comes.  Sit back, marinate, and let it soak in. Change requires time to transition to familiarity, so accept and adapt.
2. Be proactive not reactive:  When things are different, it is easy to react to every niggle or aspect you don’t understand.  Lack of understanding isn’t a failure, it is a chance for growth. You can only learn if you are proactive and inquisitive, instead of dismissive and reactive.
3. Invest:  Change happens.  Lean into it and learn to thrive within it.  You don’t gain from simply resisting it.
4. Ask for support:  One of the core values of Purple Patch is being a North Star leader.  What we mean by this is that you ask for help when needed, give help when asked, and offer help when you see it is needed.  In an environment of change, this characteristic becomes critical.
5. Make it fun:  Sameness is staleness.  Rather than allowing fear and lack of understanding dominate your mindset, view the change as a chance for growth and new potential.  Typically, change offers an evolved way to shine.

Cheers.

Matt