Lots Of Struggle

This has been bothering me for a week, so I thought I needed to share. The details of what this student was working on is unimportant, as it only applies to a small number of you. However, the message is universal, and needs to be understood.

“Anne” called me last week, explaining how excited she was about about her game. After a long practice session, she stumbled upon a technique that began to change her mindset. I was blown away because this concept is advanced, and not taught by many. It’s not something many just find on their own. In her specific sport, this technique is rarely used (primarily because it’s power isn’t understood by many). I wasn’t sure if she was ready to add this to her game, but she wasn’t going to let go, so we agreed to move forward and explore it’s capabilities.

I was extremely excited to help with this part of her mental game, as I know it to be critical for reaching the next, 1% level. She, also, couldn’t wait to begin practicing it in more detail.

What she found in practice, was the beginning steps of a more complex technique that was guaranteed to improve her focus. I spent 90 minutes on the phone with her, explaining in detail how this will help her mentally and physically, and how much time she can expect to struggle before she began to feel comfortable with the approach. I sent her an email as a follow up, just to make sure she had the key points in writing. She would be in town over Spring Break, giving us a week or two to work in person, and allow me to watch her use it in competition.

Everything was set. She was ready. I was ready. The 1% was at her fingertips.

Two days after our detailed phone call, I received a text: “Too hard, can’t do it. I quit.”


WHAT?!


Two days of practice. Two days of practice. “I quit” after two days of practice?

Of course, I’m going to kepp pushing Anne, but his scenario is too common, unfortunately. Greatness will only happen for you after struggle… lots of struggle.