In The Performance Mindset I have introduced and explored a range of factors that I believe play a more important role than talent or work rate in achieving success in sport and in life. If you want to make the most of your sport, or any other aspect of your life, you need to build a performance mindset. Importantly, a performance mindset can be learned. Using multiple strategies to stay motivated, resilient and focused, managing wellbeing, embracing leadership, investing in and drawing from a culture, and performing when it counts — all involve skills developed through practice. Being proactive in building these skills is particularly relevant for athletes, as the window for a sporting career is typically small. Keep in mind this practice should be integrated into daily activities, not postponed for a major event.

With a performance mindset, an athlete not only engages in the hard work, but also better navigates the roller‐coaster of experiences and emotions encountered enabling them to embrace their journey. Performance and enjoyment should not be viewed as mutually exclusive. Indeed, finding enjoyment and purpose in what one is doing and continually striving to perform go hand in glove.

The journey to peak performance in any field is rarely smooth sailing. It is about making good decisions at the right time and using mindset to capitalise on opportunities as they arise. Additionally, high‐level performances are rarely achieved alone. A performance mindset recognises the value of support and of investing in oneself and others.

The stories shared by the athletes and coaches interviewed for this book attest to the value of a performance mindset. Their reflections and insights are only a small sampling of a myriad experiences that might be drawn upon. They illustrate how much goes on behind the scenes of a performance that is viewed live or on a screen. They also exemplify the heart and soul that are embedded in a performance mindset. Once these are engaged as part of a performance mindset, opportunities to achieve at high levels in sport and life are enhanced.

Use your mindset to learn and grow both in sport performance capacity and in experiences beyond sport. That is the promise of The Performance Mindset.

All the best with your endeavours and adventures.

Anthony J Klarica