Ex-General Urges CEOs to Train Like Elite Athletes for Better Leadership
Boris Nannt, a retired brigadier general and chairman of the Academy of German Cooperatives (ADG), has urged business leaders to adopt training methods used by elite athletes. He argues that many executives rely too much on experience and intuition rather than structured preparation and review.
Nannt highlights a common problem in leadership: too much focus on execution with little time set aside for planning or reflection. Without proper preparation and review, leadership becomes less effective. He suggests using a simple three-colour system in calendars to balance these key areas.
Elite athletes follow a consistent cycle of preparation, execution, and review—an approach Nannt believes should be applied to leadership. He warns against treating leadership like an amateur sport, where effort is only made under pressure. Instead, leaders should train regularly, making it part of their daily routine. The former general also stresses that leaders must provide clear direction, drive results, and take responsibility. This requires structured training rather than just relying on past experience. Delegation is key—leaders should guide their teams rather than trying to do everything themselves.
Nannt's advice points to a shift in how executives approach leadership. By adopting methods from elite sports, such as structured training and balanced planning, leaders can improve their effectiveness. The goal is not just to react under pressure but to build strong, consistent leadership habits.
