
Control the Controllables
KEYNOTE:
Burnout isn't caused by working too hard. It's caused by competing everywhere except where it matters.
Jake Thompson's "Control the Controllables" is a practical, high-impact keynote that helps teams eliminate wasted energy and compete where it actually counts — especially in volatile, high-pressure environments. Built for teams that are busy but not building, reactive but not executing.
WHO THIS IS FOR
Control the Controllables is built for teams operating in high-uncertainty environments — economic volatility, industry disruption, rapid change, or constant external pressure. It's especially effective for sales teams, construction companies, and service professionals who carry significant external pressure they can't eliminate — and need a framework for focusing energy on the actions that actually compound.
the problem:
The team isn't lazy. They're exhausted. They're spinning — chasing noise, managing urgency, trying to solve problems that aren't theirs to solve. Every conversation becomes a fire drill. Every external shift demands a response.
And when everything feels urgent, nothing feels executable. Energy that should go toward the controllables — mindset, effort, habits, attention — is instead bleeding out through reactive behavior and misplaced competitive energy. The result isn't a lack of effort. It's effort pointed in the wrong direction.

Control the Controllables
In CONTROL THE CONTROLLABLES, Jake Thompson shows teams how to narrow the battlefield and raise the standard. Through clear principles and examples drawn from high-pressure competitive environments, Jake gives teams a specific framework for identifying what they can control, eliminating what they can't, and building the daily momentum that creates sustainable separation from competitors.
The session introduces Jake's Controllables Framework — a practical sorting system for energy and attention — along with the daily execution habits that elite performers use to stay on standard when external pressure is highest.
your team will learn how to:
-
Master the Controllables — Focus on mindset, effort, habits, and attention instead of reacting to noise
-
Build Daily Momentum — Stack small, consistent wins using a clear execution framework
-
Lead with Clarity Under Pressure — Communicate intentionally to create stability and confidence in uncertainty
-
Neutralize Energy Leaks — Identify distractions and replace reactive behavior with disciplined focus
-
Compete with Purpose — Shift from firefighting to deliberate action that creates sustainable separation
hear what audiences say about 'Control the Controllables'
"Hiring Jake Thompson as a keynote speaker for our two events was an outstanding decision. Both messages resonated deeply with attendees across industries, roles, and experience levels, delivering practical takeaways that extended well beyond the keynote stage.
Jake’s core themes were especially impactful for audiences navigating change, pressure, and uncertainty. Rather than relying on abstract motivation, Jake delivered actionable insights that leaders could immediately apply to their businesses, teams, and personal growth. His ability to connect performance mindset principles to real-world challenges made his content both relatable and memorable.
What truly set Jake apart was his level of engagement outside of his formal presentation. He was fully invested in the attendee experience—taking time to connect with participants before and after his keynote, attending after-hours networking events, and engaging in meaningful conversations that reinforced his message. Attendees consistently commented on how accessible and genuine he was, and how much they appreciated his willingness to continue the conversation beyond the events.
I would highly recommend Jake Thompson to any organization looking for a keynote speaker who delivers high-energy, high-impact content while genuinely investing in the success of the people in the room."
- Jessica, IRONMarket Events
"I first heard Jake at our National Meeting. His simple yet effective tips for being more organized, more productive, more competitive were really refreshing! We liked him enough that we asked him to help with our sub-team. Jake executed both a virtual and a live training for our team and the feedback was consistently very positive. If you're in a competitive environment, Jake can help you and your team compete more effectively and WIN."
-Steve, Genentech
"I have been following Jake’s blog for a number of years and always appreciate his endless energy and no-nonsense approach to overcoming challenges. We had Jake speak at our national sales conference and he provided an even better in-person and motivational experience for our team. His willingness to engage on a personal basis and to take time to understand how we’re building our business made him a crowd favorite."
-John, Risk Strategies

“In 25+ years of hiring speakers, Jake is top of my list. Very inspirational and thought-provoking message that resonated with our attendees of all ages. He did a 90-minute session and kept everyone engaged throughout the talk. "
inquire to book jake
book a keynote that drives behavior change, not just inspiration.
Craft a fully customized program to get your audience laser-focused on the key habits that change everything. Signature programs include keynotes, workshops, executive coaching, and all the gear to keep your team competing long after the event wraps.
To get in contact with Jake, use the form below or email his team directly at: booking@competeeverday.com.