Why Momentum Matters

Motivation. Momentum. M&M's. Mattison.

It's quite obvious the best words in the dictionary start with the letter "M." If my roommate Mitch is reading this, you are the one exception ;)

Momentum is seen as a prevalent concept in sports. I like to think of business like sports. As a matter of fact, you could make the case that life and sports have many commonalities. Before we go any further, let's take a look at how momentum is seen within the sports world.

MOMENTUM = ACTION

Here's How:

• First, momentum shifts begin with a "precursor event", like an interception in football or slam dunk in basketball.

• Next, this "event" leads to "changes in cognition, physiology, and affect." Depending on the athlete, his or her confidence level will determine how strongly he/she reacts to the event.

• Third, a "change in behavior" would come from all of these internal perceptions. If you were watching the game/match/fight, you would be able to see changes in the style of play from the players as a result from the momentum created. This could be body language, oral communication, etc.

• After the behavior changes is a "change in performance." Without the precipitating event, there would not be noticeable momentum shifts.

• Finally, at the end of the chain, there should be an immediate outcome change.

Momentum creates action. I'm no physics expert (ask anyone in my Intro to Physics class from Freshman year). Momentum creates ACTION in the science world, sports world and in your mental state.

So, how can you use this sports-minded example of momentum if you aren't anything close to an athlete?

EASY!

If you ever feel like you have been lying around all day and haven't accomplished anything, there is one simple way to complete change your mindset:

DO SOMETHING. DO ANYTHING.

Get up. Go for a quick walk around the block. Do 10 push-ups. Start some laundry. Just do something. Be creative. Get the ball rolling.

If it feels as if you are so far away from a goal you have or have so much to do, start small and use the momentum to create continuous action. Once you start moving, there's no one stopping you.

Start the momentum.