Josh Waitzkin was a chess prodigy, winning the U.S. Junior Chess Championship at just 11. But at 18, he quit chess. Why? A new coach tried to mold him into a player he wasn’t. Waitzkin lost his love for the game and eventually found a new passion in martial arts, where he won a national championship within two years.
🔑 Takeaway 1: The Importance of Match Quality
Waitzkin emphasizes that he excelled in both chess and martial arts when his style aligned with his personality. This concept, known as “match quality,” is crucial in business too. Just like music producer Rick Rubin, who turned his love for art into a successful career, finding a role that aligns with your unique traits can lead to exceptional performance.
🧠Takeaway 2: The Danger of Losing Your Internal Compass
Waitzkin warns that trying to emulate styles or personalities that don’t align with your own can lead to internal conflict. Psychologist Abraham Maslow talked about a “hierarchy of needs,” where even if basic needs are met, discontent arises unless one is doing what they are “individually fitted for.”
🎶 The Harmony of Being True to Yourself
Maslow said, “A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write…if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself.” The same applies to business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals. Being true to your own nature is not just a path to peace but a cornerstone for high performance.
🌟 Final Thought
Josh Waitzkin sums it up perfectly: “One of the most critical factors in becoming a high performer is the degree to which your relationship to your pursuit stays in harmony with your unique disposition.”
So, are you in harmony with your unique disposition in your professional life? Your level of match quality could be the key to unlocking your highest potential.
Grow Money, Love, Health and Wellness @ GTPGlobal 
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