Applying sport psychology to business

Abstract

[Abstract]: There has been a substantial increase in the application of sport psychology theory and practice in business settings in recent years. This paper outlines points of intersection and divergence between sport and business, and provides examples from sport that are of use in business settings. This paper also draws upon Orlick’s 2008 evidence-based model of excellence, as a vehicle for illustrating key skills associated with peak performance across a variety of high-stress domains including sport, music, and medicine. We posit that this model can be applied to improving performance in the corporate world. The Wheel of Excellence model incorporates seven key elements, with Focus as the hub, in addition to Commitment, Mental Readiness, Positive Images, Confidence, Distraction Control, and Ongoing Learning. Given the close parallels between business and sport psychology, it is anticipated that increasing attention will be devoted to their integration and application crossover in the future.