Lewin's Equation and Influencing Behavior for Sports Performance

Lewin’s equation is a heuristic formula created by the famous psychologist Kurt Lewin. It states that behavior is a function of a person in their environment. This is a critical equation for sports leaders to understand. More and more research is coming out that is reinforcing this idea that Lewin created in the 1930’s. (James Clear). Willpower is not enough. If we want to create real behavior change, we need to focus in on the environment that we are creating.

Our behavior matters because it directly influences our results. We are a big fan of the framework that Brett Ledbetter created that states that character drives the process which drives teh results. Our behavior, the actions we take in the present moment which we have direct control over, is interchangeable with the process.

So, the model I would like to dicuss with you today is known as the 6 sources of influence. It is a model that was created by Joseph Grenny and his team of psychologists that I think is a very useful model for coaches and captains to understand. Each of these 6 sources are influencing our behavior whether we like it or not, for good or for bad. It is vital that we be intentional with crafting these influences to initiate and drive the behavior in the programs we want to see for the benefit of the individual and team.

If you can envision a table, there are two columns and three rows. The two columns are Motivation and ability and the three rows are personal, social, and structural. I am going to provide a quick overview as to what these are and why they matter.

A great exercise would be for you to think critically about what the vital behaviors (process) are that you want to see changed. Then, analyze each one of the sources of influence and think about what can be done to influence change. Remember that these sources are there influencing regardless of your thougts or feelings on the matter. Leadership is influence and it is important that you understand the power of environment and the ability you have to change it for the betterment of your players and teammates.