DEVELOPMENT
“ A team ’ s communication and workload management effectiveness is intricately linked to their first touch of new e-mail ”
Soccer , often referred to as ‘ the beautiful game ,’ is characterised by fluidity , teamwork and intricate strategies . But one fundamental aspect that often goes unnoticed by casual observers yet holds immense importance in the game , is the ‘ first touch ’.
This is the initial contact a player makes with the ball after receiving a pass , and it is a skill that can greatly influence the outcome of a match . In this article , we explore the art and significance of the first touch in soccer , exploring its impact on player performance , team dynamics and overall gameplay , plus how closely this relates to our first touch of new , incoming e-mail and the impact this has on our workplace performance , team interactions and overall productivity .
The technical mastery In soccer , the first touch is not merely about controlling the ball ; it ’ s about doing so with finesse and precision . A well-executed first touch involves the player positioning themselves correctly , reading the trajectory of the ball and deciding on the optimal surface to use . Whether it ’ s cushioning the ball with the instep , stopping it dead with the sole or deftly flicking it in a new direction , the technical mastery required for an effective first touch is a testament to a player ’ s skill level .
w Likewise with e-mail … It is critical that we make our ‘ first touch ’ of a new e-mail with finesse , precision and correct positioning . We can do this well by structuring specific time in our calendar each day for this task , rather than handling it in an unstructured way as an interruption , distraction or on an ad-hoc basis .
Control and possession In soccer , possession of the ball is a cornerstone of soccer strategy . A player ’ s ability to control the ball immediately upon receiving it determines whether their team maintains possession or loses it to the opposition . A poor first touch can lead to turnovers , putting the team on the back foot and allowing the opponent to launch counterattacks . On the other hand , a well-executed first touch enables a player to quickly transition from receiving the ball to making a pass , taking a shot , or dribbling effectively . w Likewise with e-mail … It is critical to get control of an e-mail the first time it is touched / seen . The skillset for this is the powerful and proven 4D methodology that most time management experts have advocated over all the years I have studied this topic .
Decision-making under pressure In soccer ’ s fast-paced environment , players often find themselves under pressure from opponents pressing to win the ball back . A player ’ s first touch can make all the difference in these situations . A poor touch can result in losing possession , while a well-controlled first touch can create space , buy time and outwit the opposition .
w Likewise with e-mail … There is constant pressure from incoming e-mail to respond to or action it – and a poor decision at the first touch can make all the difference to your degree of control . Do it well and you create mental space and free up time for higher order thinking , tasks , activities and projects .
Creating space In soccer , a skilful first touch can create space for the player to operate . By cushioning the ball away from defenders or using a subtle touch to change the direction of play , a player can open-up passing lanes and force opponents to adjust their positions . This strategic use of the first touch can be especially crucial in tight midfield battles where a momentary opening can lead to a breakthrough . By spending less time trying to get the ball under control , you have more time to look up and assess the next pass and strategic play .
w Likewise with e-mail … A skilful first touch can create the headspace needed to operate in the key areas of your role . By spending less time trying to get e-mail under control , you have more time to look up and assess the more important aspects of your role , especially as a leading EA .
Quick decision-making In soccer , the first touch is closely intertwined with a player ’ s decision-making ability . A player with a strong first touch can assess their options more quickly as they have better control over the ball . This allows them to make split-second
Winter Issue 2024 | Executive PA 53