The powerful pause: The lesser-known traits of high performers
29.07.2025 – Articles
In private markets, high performance is often measured by metrics: capital raised, deals closed, portfolios scaled. But what if the real markers of elite performance are less visible, and less celebrated? What if they look more like pausing before a tough conversation, creating space for disagreement, or making someone feel like they truly belong?
In a recent episode of On The Line, I spoke with high-performance coach Dean Leak, who has worked with Olympic athletes, C-suite executive teams and special forces. His insights offer a blueprint for finance and operational professionals who are under pressure to deliver results often without the recognition, influence or authority afforded to investment colleagues.
Here’s what we learned about what it really takes to be a high performer in today’s world.
High performers are human first
“There’s a myth about high performers,” Dean explained.