There is so much that these players teach us that, if we can find a way to be a little more like them we, too,can hit our marks more easily.
I watch to learn. To model what I see that I want to be. To make some positive changes in the way I go about trying to be a better version of myself.
I add these lessons to my daily to do list.
As many of you know, I am all about stories. Stories that players tell themselves that don’t work to get them what they want. And stories they tell themselves that create the possibility of being who they need to be to bring the very best out of themselves in the biggest moments of performance.
The press and the fans have stories about every player. It is important that the player has a story going that will give them the best chance to ignite the highest end of their talent and skills. So that, win or lose the score, they can look in the mirror and say, “I have no regrets. I brought my best.”
For all of these athletes it is about right practice, right attitude, right thinking. If that is in their mix then they play, win or lose, and have no regrets. As they compete to be the best version of themselves, they will be able to sit back and observe the results that come their way with the dignity and class of the great champions.
My mission includes, “for each match to be one in which I grow as a player and person.”
Another amazing experience. The story goes on.
Today I escaped with a victory despite a couple of rookie mental toughness errors.
I was looking ahead to tomorrow’s potential semifinal matchup without too much concern about today’s opponent.
So many years of competing. Lots of successful matches. More wins than I ever could have imagined.
And there is still that voice tucked away deep in the corner of my mind that has doubt.
The harder the practice, the greater the adversity, the happier I am.
First match later today. Slight breeze and an afternoon sun. I am good to go.
And during the process of getting ready to compete, I remind myself to maintain patience with myself. The fact that I have found my game through eliminating unnecessary parts may be a story of the past. I have changed. Now, I see, that finding Bob has a lot to do with throwing a lot of new ideas into a big pot. Stirring the pot. Turning the heat down low and letting it all marinate. In the end it will be what it is. A new me. A better version.
Who would have thought that at nearly 67 years old this dog could learn new tricks? Actually, I would have. With “kaizen” as my mission, each day takes me to a better version of myself on the court.
