Understanding Systemic Value

Systemic Value
Otherwise known as structured thinking, this dimension is built around rules, policies, systems, yes/no type thinking. Below are some additional components of this dimensional value:

• includes words such as plan, sort, categorize, order, logic, etc.
• Answers 'should' type questions. i.e. 'Did you do what you should have? or Did your teammate do his job?'
• In sports it involves how well does the athlete understand the rules and demands of the game
• Internally it is about self-direction and self-image

Below are some additional questions to ask based on systemic value:

• How well do you understand the rules of the game?
• How well do you understand the game plan?
• What is your attitude towards authority?
• What is your attitude towards breaking the rules?
• What is your attitude towards being compliant?

Avoid This To Maximinze Your Potential

Just as the goal of multi-dimensional strength training is to focus on integrating multiple joints of the body through fundamental movement patterns, the same can be said for how an individual thinks.

The most successful athletes have a balance between the three dimensions of thinking (intrinsic-extrinsic-systemic) and can pull from each of these areas when needed. It is the athlete who pays little attention to one or two of these dimensions in their decision making process that struggles to reach their potential.

So if you want to maximize your potential, be sure to pull from all three dimensions of thinking! Just how can you do that? Well start by asking yourself the following questions:

1. How does this make me feel? (intrinsic)
2. What action do I need to take to accomplish this? What is it costing me by not taking action? (extrinsic)
3. How well do I understand the rules/framework/boundries of this opportunity or situation? What is it costing me by not fullly understanding this structure? (systemic)

3D Thinking

Over the past decade of training athletes there has been a trend towards multi-dimensional strength training. The basic idea is that because athletes move in multiple planes of movement (front to back, side to side, and rotational), a sound strength training program should also reflect these same demands in order to best prepare the athlete for optimal performance. If this is true for physical development, can it also be true for the mental side of performance?

3D Thinking

Based on the science of axiology and the work of Robert S. Hartman, it is proven that people make decisions based on three dimensions of thinking. It is the unique combination of these dimensions that create an individual's unique decision making pattern. Each pattern is a combination of clarity and bias within each dimension that creates an individual's strengths and weaknesses.

Below are the three dimensions of thinking:

1. Intrinsic


2. Extrinsic


3. Systemic

Over the next few weeks I will review each of these areas as it relates to sports performance.