What is optimal performance?
We’re all seeking ways to do more, be more, and live our best lives. To get those results, we need consistent energy, focus, and drive. But optimal performance, the ability to consistently function at 80-85% of our full capacity, is a tricky goal. It’s more about sustained effort than unsustainable bursts of peak performance. So how do we make it happen?
In this podcast episode, I explore exactly that. I discuss the struggles with inconsistent performance that many entrepreneurs experience, and I share the hard-won strategies I’ve found to maintain peak focus and energy all day long.
Key Strategies for Optimal Performance:
- Prioritize Sleep: Getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night is essential for both mental and physical performance. It’s non-negotiable. Read books like Why We Sleep to fully understand the value of rest.
- Hydration Matters: Drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily to support cognitive function. Adding electrolytes can help, especially during times of increased physical activity.
- Know Your Body: Blood Sugar Management Pay attention to your energy levels during the two hours following meals. Notice any major swings that could be caused by a carbohydrate heavy meal. Aim for 20-40 grams of protein in each meal to balance your blood sugar.
- Fitness That Supports Your Life: Aim for consistent daily workouts without overdoing it. The aim is to use fitness to enhance your energy levels, not deplete them.
- The Power of Deep Work: Block out distraction-free time for laser-focused work. Even an hour or two a day can significantly increase focus, productivity, and overall mental energy.
Making It Sustainable
It takes time and effort to transform these strategies into lasting habits. Start slowly. If you don’t have any of these practices in place yet, don’t try to tackle them all at once. Choose one, make it a habit, then move on to the next. Your consistency will pay off big time!
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
(00:00) Introduction – Jerred discusses the importance of improving oneself to grow a business that makes a positive impact on humanity.
(00:21) Achieving Optimal Performance (OP) – Jerred sets the stage for the discussion on achieving OP in work and life.
(00:54) Defining Optimal Performance – The distinction between optimal and peak performance is explained, emphasizing sustainability in performance levels.
(01:55) Maintaining OP – Strategies for consistently operating at 80-85% capacity, avoiding the fluctuation of performance levels.
(02:38) Personal Struggles and Solutions – Jerred shares his experiences with energy and motivation fluctuations, and how he addressed them.
(03:54) Keys to OP – Sleep, hydration, and nutrition strategies that Jerred has found effective in maintaining his performance.
(06:51) Fitness and Deep Work – How fitness routines and deep work sessions contribute to sustaining optimal performance.
(11:23) Building Habits for Performance – Encouragement to focus on building habits that support optimal performance, with a call to action for listeners to try harder in developing these habits.