What’s your system for maintaining your ability to perform at a high level, for many decades?

HINT: the only “incorrect” answer is, “I don’t really have such a system.”

Everyone is different. What works for me won’t necessarily work for you. But without a system tailored to your own needs, you will not perform at your highest possible level over many years.

(You might be better than some, but you won’t be your best.)

For years, I’ve wondered why so many leaders don’t have a good answer to my question. Part of the reason is that these are strong, tough individuals who believe those qualities are sufficient to sustain their efforts.

But I suspect there is a harsher truth: most of us lack a degree of self-awareness. Armed with healthy egos, we perceive that our performance levels are higher than they really are. We fail to notice or discount our flaws. We take a long time to realize when our performance starts to slip.

Your maintenance system might include more sleep or exercise. It might involve totally disconnecting every Sunday. Perhaps you’ll decide to always have dinner with your family.

There are many other possibilities. Choose whatever combination recharges your batteries and keeps you strong, clear, and focused.