When 100 percent is not enough
Recently I chanced upon an interview with a top professional tennis player immediately after he had unexpectedly lost in a major tournament. What caught my attention was the mature manner in which he thought about and accepted this loss. He was visibly very disappointed, but was somewhat consoled because he felt that he had given 100% of himself while on the tennis court.
Here was the consummate professional, the very best in his sport and his response to those reporters was why he was the best. Not only was he honestly willing and truly committed enough to give everything he had within, he also understood that the score was not necessarily linked to that effort. Sometimes 100% just isn’t enough.
As a teen I was impressed with John Wooden, the former UCLA basketball coach, who directed his players with two primary thoughts in mind.
- Practice the fundamentals and techniques until they became habit patterns.
- Give absolutely 100% of yourself in everything you attempt to do.
Not only did the Wooden era teams create a dynasty of national championships, but many of his players excelled in their studies at college and later in their careers after basketball. They could rejoice in the fact that they had come that far, even if they weren’t always number one.
Take a good honest look at yourself and your efforts in life. Do you give even 90% of yourself each day to improve your lifestyle and career? Perhaps you should.
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