Known for his flamboyant batting style and that iconic moustache twirl, Shikhar Dhawan’s approach to life off the field is equally impressive. We explore five of Dhawan’s daily practices; you’ll discover how this cricket star has crafted a life of purpose and positivity.
In a recent episode of the ThinkRight podcast by JetSynthesys, the ‘Gabbar’ of Indian cricket shared his winning formula for success through affirmations and positive thinking. What emerges is a portrait of a man who is as disciplined in his personal growth as he is in perfecting his cover drive.
Read on to find Dhawan’s practices for mindful growth and small tips from him and his mentor, BK Shivani, so you can do the same.
1. Cultivate a Positive and Opportunistic Mindset
Maintaining a positive and opportunistic mindset is at the core of Dhawan’s philosophy. He believes how you perceive situations can significantly impact your performance and overall life satisfaction. “Every challenge is an opportunity in disguise,” Dhawan often says. This approach has helped him navigate the ups and downs of his cricket career with resilience and optimism.
Practice Tip: Start each day by identifying one positive aspect or opportunity in your current circumstances, no matter how challenging they may seem.
2. Focus on the Process, Not Just Achievements
One of Dhawan’s key revelations has been the shift from a goal-oriented to a process-oriented approach. While setting goals is essential, Dhawan emphasises embracing the journey. “The joy is in the playing, not just the winning,” he explains. This mindset allows him to stay motivated and find fulfilment in daily improvements, regardless of the immediate outcomes.
Practice Tip: Set process goals alongside outcome goals. For example, instead of just aiming to win a match, focus on improving specific aspects of your technique or fitness.
3. Channel Aggression into Productivity and Creativity
Dhawan’s journey has taught him the art of channelling aggression positively. He transforms this energy into productivity and creativity rather than letting it manifest as anger or frustration. This approach has not only improved his game but also enhanced his problem-solving skills off the field.
Practice Tip: When you feel frustrated or angry, take a moment to breathe and ask yourself, “How can I use this energy constructively?” Then, redirect that energy into a productive task or creative endeavour.
4. Embrace a Calm and Peaceful Approach
Despite the high-pressure environment of international cricket, Dhawan has learned to embrace a calm and peaceful mindset. This tranquillity, he believes, is crucial for making clear decisions and performing at his best. “In the stillness, you find your strength,” Dhawan often remarks.
Practice Tip: Incorporate a daily 10-minute meditation or deep breathing exercise into your routine to cultivate inner calm.
5. Harness the Power of Positive Affirmations and the Law of Attraction
Dhawan firmly believes in the power of positive affirmations and the law of attraction. He uses these tools to reinforce his positive mindset and attract success. “What you think, you become,” he says, emphasising the importance of maintaining positive self-talk and visualising success.
Practice Tip: Create a list of personal affirmations tailored to your goals and aspirations. Repeat them daily, especially in moments of self-doubt or challenge.
What stands out in Dhawan’s philosophy is its universal applicability. Whether facing a fast bowler on the pitch or tackling a challenging project at work, the principles remain the same. It’s about maintaining composure under pressure, finding opportunities in adversity, and consistently aligning one’s thoughts and actions with desired outcomes. In the end, Shikhar Dhawan’s story reminds us all that true success is not just about the destinations we reach but the person we become along the journey.
