Years ago, Mike Tyson provided this poetic uppercut: Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth. Similar to his brute strength, Mike’s words hit hard. His suggestion that the best plans can evaporate in the face of an unexpected “punch” is universally applicable. In opposition, it can be inferred that, in fact, the best plans anticipate setbacks, failures, and chaos. They are built on adaptability, resilience, and composure in the eye of the storm.
Competitors who expect, accept and embrace the potential for chaos tend to be the most successful. Those who need everything to be “perfect,” stumble. Jack Nicklaus knew he had every player who complained about the conditions of the course or the environment beat before they even tee’d off. If performers plan for and assume adversity will inevitably arise, they can then ground themselves in the present moment, return to their pre-programmed plan, and adjust it where necessary.
The best performers know when to stick with the plan and when to alter it. Continuing to play zone defense when the other team is shooting well, throwing fastballs when they are getting crushed by batters, hitting drop shots when your opponent is too quick is not a winning formula.
If performers let go of their attachment to “how it was supposed to go,” they adapt, remain in the present moment, trust their training, and continue on with a greater chance of success.