One thing I love about Major League baseball in October is the caliber of performance. We know the games should be outstanding, but somehow I am s till amazed at the talent. I find myself cheering for plays by every team.

This made me think once again how baseball reflects life in general. Here are Six Life Lessons I’ve learned from the sport. I’ve also included questions I ask myself.

1. It starts with the Vision:

Sure. Not everyone who visualizes it makes it, but every team that made it to the post season, visualized it! Even on an individual basis – the players at the top saw themselves playing here even when they were just children.

What is your vision? Where do you see yourself at the end of your current “season?” How clearly do you see yourself succeeding? Can you feel it with all your senses?

2. Life is a team sport

None of us can make our dreams come true without also helping other people along the way. Your success is always a team effort. It requires coaching from those who see what you cannot. It requires being committed to the success of more people than just you. What are you doing to help the people around you?

3. How You Practice is How you Perform

There is simply no substitute for the hours it takes to get good at your craft. Whether it’s sport, art, business, or something else – practice and feedback is what helps you improve. On average it takes 10,000 hours to become a master. Are you putting in the time to become excellent at something? If not, why not?

4. Dealing with pressure

Pressure will always be present, both from internal resistance and external forces playing against you. When the pressure is the greatest, the winners shine the brightest. How do you master your mindset under pressure?

5. Overcoming Failure

Baseball is sometimes called a game of failure. Even the very best hitters get out much more often than get on base. As Winston Churchill once said, “Victory is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm.” This might apply to war, baseball, or life. Do you know how to keep moving forward with confidence even when you’ve struck out – repeatedly?

6. Make it fun – for you AND the fans

The best players realize that it’s not about them. They play to give the fans something to cheer about. The fans love to see passion. Pro players often recall the magical years of Little League.  How can you tap into fun in your work or your home life? Who do you want clapping for you? Let them inspire you to play with heart.

Whether your game is athletic, financial or personal – you can be built up to win it. You can play hard and enjoy the journey. Whether it’s the applause of a sales team, or of your 3 year old, you’ll be glad you gave it your all.

 

Gina Parris is a peak performance speaker and coach who helps individuals and organizations reach their full potential joyfully. Get her free mental mastery mini-course in the sidebar of this site.