High performance in law requires more than technical skill—it requires the right mindset. In episode #596 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Zack Glaser talks with Jess Sargus about applying an athlete’s mindset to leadership, performance, and growth in legal practice.

Jess breaks down the core pillars of athletic thinking. From growth mindset and action orientation to process focus and purpose, and explains how lawyers can apply these principles to become better leaders and perform at their best under pressure.

If you want to hear more from Jess, check her out at: https://www.thelegalathlete.com/

Listen to our other episodes on Mindset & Performance:

#588 – Practice Smarter, Not Harder: 411 Tips for Modern Lawyers, with Jordan Couch Apple | Spotify | LTN

#585 – First Aid for the Mind: Mental Health in Law, with Soumya Palreddy & Jill Kluesner Apple | Spotify | LTN

#572 – Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert Apple | Spotify | LTN

#551 – Becoming the AI-Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods Apple | Spotify | LTN

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Chapters / Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

03:12 – Meet Jess Sargus

04:02 – From Law to Combat Sports

08:06 – Competition, Business, and Leadership

11:15 – Why Mindset Matters

15:12 – The Athlete’s Mindset Defined

17:01 – Action Orientation and Elite Performance

19:30 – Getting Comfortable with Failure

22:05 – Growth Mindset and Competitiveness

26:03 – The Five Pillars of Fierce Agency

29:21 – Process Over Outcome

34:46 – Purpose and Mission Alignment

39:48 – Where to Find Jess

40:53 – Closing Thoughts

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