How do you play your best game on and off the court? There are some simple principles, rules if you will that you can use everyday, whether you’re playing tennis, doing business or just managing life.
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- Stay Focused – Don’t allow the tactics of your opponents or competitors to distract you. Distraction is probably the biggest culprit on and off the court. Distraction is the opposite of focus. There are so many things that need and want our attention. In order to do your best, you must make a concentrated effort and stay on task. Make whatever you’re doing your focal point.
- One Point at a Time – This is a term we use in tennis that helps us to stay present. Similar to focus, it reminds us to play each and every point to it’s fullest. Even if you’re down or behind, if you stay present and make every action/point count, things can change very quickly.
- Play YOUR Game, Not Theirs – Don’t beat yourself by playing someone’s else’s game. You have to be keenly aware of your strengths and how to best use them. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but you can’t do that. You have to remember your strengths and skills and use them to the best of your ability. Don’t get sucked into trying to play someone else’s game.
- Keep Fighting – Never give up on a point, a game, an opportunity, your skills, yourself or your team. There are times when it looks like there is no way you’re going to win. Even in those moments, it’s important to stay committed and to keep fighting.
- Play as a Team – Even if you are by yourself, play singles, or you’re a solopreneur, you don’t have to play alone. Learn to collaborate, work with others, get support and begin to think like a team. There’s a saying “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together”.
