Page 7 - Fully Equipped Playbook
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CHAPTER 2: MINDSET
Many athletes know they must train their body and practice hard in order to succeed, but developing a strong mindset is just as important. Buddha proclaimed that “What we think, we become.” In other words, we can control our thoughts and by giving ourselves that power, we can then determine how we act, and how those thoughts shape our character.
Here’s another great quote. “While the greats master the body, the greatest master the mind.” - Lebron James. Becoming a top athlete requires physical ability and skill, but a proper mindset often separates the good from the great. As I advanced through the minor league system, I played with guys I felt had more physical talent than me, but not all of them succeeded. I believe my mental game gave me that edge, and led to a longer and more successful career.
As you progress in your journey, you will be treated differently based upon your perceived skill level. Yes, I was considered a top prospect in the minors, but was I a first rounder? No. Was I the team's number one pick? No. Did those players get the benefit of the doubt more often? Yes. Did I have to earn every opportunity? You bet. And did I outlast many of those players? I did. How, you ask? MY MINDSET.
This quote from Napoleon Hill couldn’t be more true, “We are who we are because of the thoughts that enter and occupy our minds.” Take a second to think about that. Consistent negative thoughts about oneself will lead to self doubt, and tear you down as an individual. However, if you can consistently work to make those thoughts positive, you will begin to live and project those feelings, and that type of thinking will without a doubt impact your success and results positively.
DEALING WITH ADVERSITY AND FAILURE
Failure in sports, as in life, is inevitable. Look at any of the great athletes in history and you will see that they failed many times throughout their career. It's how they handled those failure that made them stand out. Your greatest lessons won't come from your successes, but rather the very opposite. Learn to analyze
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