Page 54 - Fully Equipped Playbook

SUPPORT SYSTEM
GET STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
We as human beings and athletes are stronger together than as individuals, I strongly believe that. Don’t try to do this thing called life alone. The burden can weigh you down. Is it ok to need alone time, and just not want to talk to anyone? Yes, of course, that's human nature. Needing time to yourself is different than trying to do it all alone, so find a balance. I remember feeling so disgusted with myself after certain games, that I couldn't even talk about it. I had days where I felt I had to just forget what had happened, and not rehash. I do preach learning from failures and mistakes, but sometimes it's ok to just let it go and move on. Even now, in my everyday life as a father, I need a minute alone. I have three beautiful children, but man their energy level is from another planet! Wrestling, riding scooters, coloring, snuggling, card games, swinging, you name it, we do it! I do try to get away to meditate or nap, because I need that time to re-center, but I keep it to a minimum. I am a much happier and better person around others, especially those I love. Surround yourself with people you love and trust, they will bring out the best in you.
BE YOUR CHEERING SECTION
There’s nothing better than when you have a big hit and see your family cheering from the stands, or look in the dugout and see your teammates genuinely happy for you. It wasn’t a coincidence early in my career that I had so much success playing in Baltimore at Camden Yards. I always had a huge cheering section. My friends and family in the Maryland/Virginia area would show up in numbers. Those were some great memories, and that support was like a super power for me.
My career began in Baltimore, in fact we named our first son Camden, after Camden Yards. It was May 6, 2011. It was the culmination of everything that I had worked for, but I have so many great memories of sharing that day with those that helped get me there. I couldn't even believe I had been called up for that game. The night before was a nightmare for me at Triple-A for the Durham Bulls. I had struck out three times in that game, so imagine my surprise when my manager Charlie Montoyo called me in his office to tell me I was getting promoted. HUH? You sure? Haha.
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