Tennis isn’t for everyone. Neither is business. Both are grueling, challenging, intense undertakings and to excel at either you have to have a key ingredient: Heart.

I thought of how true this was recently when I was on the court playing a singles match. I love singles, but I’m really a doubles player. That’s where I’ve spent most of my time on the court. And since I’m just getting back into the game, my skill level is not at it’s peak. But I took on the challenge anyway. I played my match with vigor and intensity. I didn’t get discouraged when I was down. I focused on the goal and I won the match, even when others didn’t think I would. 

Afterwards, another tennis player and spectator said to me, “You know, you really have heart. I like that!” And then he invited me to be his Mixed Doubles partner.

Some of the most successful business owners will tell you, have a passion for what you do and the rest will come. Of course it takes a lot more than just passion to win at business and tennis, but it’s a GREAT start and the thing that will keep you going, especially when challenges arise (and they will).

Have you ever heard the saying, You can teach skill, but you can’t teach heart? What this means is even without all of the initial skills, someone with the heart, passion, energy, and enthusiasm to go out and try, is more valuable as a player, be it for a work or tennis team. And that’s what my new tennis partner was saying to me — I want you on my team because you have the heart to compete and win.

The tennis lesson here is obvious. The business lesson should be also. Put everything you have into your business. Give it your all. Do what you have to do to make it work. Stay focused, committed and passionate and you will find the heart to win.The following two tabs change content below.