Learn about three must-read books for athletes that cover mindset, leadership, teamwork, and dealing with pressure. Discover techniques to manage emotions through 'The Chimp Paradox' by Professor Steve Peters. Improve performance under pressure with 'The Pressure Principle' by Dave Aldrin. Hear about the hosts' training experiences and recommendations for other books.
The Chimp Paradox provides practical techniques to train athletes' emotional management and prevent impulsive behavior in high-pressure moments.
Legacy offers valuable insights into creating a successful team culture, emphasizing humility, discipline, and individual responsibility.
Deep dives
Book 1: The Chimp Paradox by Professor Steve Peters
The Chimp Paradox by Professor Steve Peters is a highly recommended book that simplifies complex psychology into easy-to-understand analogies. The book introduces the concept of the mind being divided into three parts: the chimp, the human, and the computer. The chimp represents the emotional part of the brain, while the human represents the logical part. The book provides strategies and training to help athletes manage their emotions and react in a more positive and efficient way. It offers practical techniques to train the chimp and prevent impulsive and irrational behavior, both in high-pressure moments and in everyday life. The Chimp Paradox is valuable for athletes, business professionals, and anyone looking to improve emotional management.
Book 2: Legacy by James Kerr
Legacy by James Kerr delves into the success of the New Zealand All Blacks, one of the most accomplished sports teams in history. The book presents 15 powerful and practical lessons in leadership and business that can be applied in various areas of life. It showcases the team's values and culture, emphasizing concepts like humility, discipline, and team unity. It highlights the importance of individuals taking responsibility, and no one being too big to perform small tasks like cleaning up the changing room (known as 'sweeping the sheds'). Legacy offers valuable insights into creating a successful and cohesive team culture, and provides inspiration for athletes, leaders, and individuals aiming to establish a positive and high-performing environment.
Book 3: Open by Andre Agassi
Open by Andre Agassi provides a candid and honest account of his tennis career, revealing the realities behind the public persona. Agassi shares his journey, including the ups and downs, and offers readers a profound understanding of what it takes to succeed in the face of challenges. The book provides valuable insights for athletes, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes struggles, and the differences between perception and reality. Open is an essential read for athletes seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in pursuing a career in sports.
Lewis shares three books (plus an extra one) that, he believes are must read's for athletes that want to improve who they are as people and as athletes.