Karolina PilcherSenior Strategy and Research Manager, Jersey Finance
Serena Guthrie Inspires the Next Generation at Future Connect
22 May 2025
Defining High Performance & Understanding Motivation
At our event, Serena Guthrie shared valuable insights into the key qualities behind high performance. She highlighted resilience, focus and proactive problem-solving as essential traits that help individuals overcome setbacks and stay committed. Whether in sport or business, Serena emphasised the importance of mental strength, leadership and teamwork.
She also explored motivation – both intrinsic, driven by personal satisfaction, and extrinsic, influenced by external rewards, and how these impact performance. Drawing on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Serena demonstrated how understanding motivation can help individuals and organisations reach their full potential.
Engaging in professional development opportunities and asking for feedback enhances skills and prepares individuals for future challenges in their careers.
Serena Guthrie MBE
Meet Our Expert Speaker
Serena Guthrie | Ex England Netball Captain | Key Note speaker | Culture, People & High Performance
Serena Guthrie MBE is a former England netball captain known for her speed, athleticism, and leadership in mid-court positions. Over a 14-year international career, she earned 110 caps and captained England 28 times, playing a pivotal role in their 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medal win. Retired in 2022, Serena now leads performance at Jersey Netball, supports young talent through Legacy Netball, and works in business coaching with Humanise Solutions.
Techniques for Mastering Motivation
Setting SMART Goals
SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Using this framework helps clarify objectives and fosters motivation by establishing clear pathways to success.
Building Self-Discipline and Habits
Self-discipline is vital for maintaining motivation. Developing positive habits and routines can create a solid foundation for achieving goals and can significantly enhance performance.
Utilising YOU
Positive reinforcement involves rewarding desired behaviors to encourage their continuation. This can include self-rewards or external incentives, fostering a positive environment for motivation.
Keys to Unlocking High Performance
- Importance of Mental Health: Regular mindfulness practices can enhance focus and resilience.
- Role of Physical Exercise: Crucial for maintaining energy levels and improving overall health.
- Nutrition and Performance: Crucial for maintaining energy levels and improving overall health.
- Importance of Continuous Learning: Engaging in professional development opportunities and asking for feedback enhances skills and prepares individuals for future challenges in their careers
Event Photos
Thank You to our Event Series Sponsor
Grant Thornton Limited
Grant Thornton Limited is a leading Channel Islands practice with offices in Guernsey and Jersey with a combined staffing strength of over 250 people. We are the Channel Island member of Grant Thornton International, one of the world’s leading international organisations of independently owned and managed accounting and consulting firms.
We have been offering practical and strategic advice to all the key sectors in the Channel Islands for many years, and work closely with our clients to understand the specific issues that they face, evidenced by the many long-standing client relationships that we have developed.
Connect with Grant Thornton:
Discover more about our Future Connect forum including our upcoming events.
