American Kevin VanDam is one of the top-ranking bass fishermen in the world with two Major League Fishing Cups, four Bassmaster Classic titles, seven Toyota Tundra Angler of the Year titles and eight Angler of the Year titles under his belt. His winnings amount to millions of dollars and he is the beneficiary of major sponsorship deals. In this blog, we take a look at the secret of his success.
WHAT SETS THE TOP INDIVIDUALS APART?
Being at the top is a numbers game and bass fishing is no different to any other industry. All top sportspeople require talent, motivation, dedication and tenacity, but just like every other highly competitive sport, what separates the top players is a matter of percentages. Just as at the top level of professional sports every individual fulfils the minimum requirements of skill and practice, to rise to the top in any industry you need to gain the advantage where you can.
A NUMBERS GAME
“If you want to be the best, you have to do things that other people aren’t willing to do.” – successful Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps
There is little that separates the top players, so gaining the advantage is a matter of maximising what might seem to be minor elements. There are many variables with bass fishing including currents, wind, sunshine and landscape. Kevin VanDam ensures that he always has the advantage. He makes sure that he gets the best locations by visiting them ahead of time and assessing the terrain. He ensures he will be the first to claim the prime spot because he has the fastest engine in his boat. And he is better equipped than the competition because he has more rod racks and a wider range of lures.
Kevin VanDam also does something else that few others do: He invests in a coach. His coach provides alternative perspectives – from assessing the terrain of a lake where the season’s competitions will be held to consultations on lure choice and the rod actions that he practises. VanDam uses his coach to build trust in his approach, process and attitude and prevents himself slipping into doubt or a deep blue funk. In fishing, as in building a business, a few consecutive small failures have a tendency to do that.
“Becoming the best and staying the best means you need someone to talk to who understands your challenges and the pressure of competition. They help maintain perspective and prevent me slipping into habits or behaviours that prevent winning.” – Kevin VanDam
Success in sports and in every industry and business depends on many factors including having the right attitude, passion and motivation. But these things alone are not enough in a highly competitive environment. Insight is required to work the percentages and gain the advantage. If you’re not sure how to start, then get the right support. Aurik could just be the specialist that your business needs.
