When one finds a field or subject that captivates them, it becomes intriguing. The mentality changes and absorbing knowledge gives one a sense of fulfillment. More importantly, you start enjoying the process. Sports and the corporate world are similar in that regard. You have to become a student of the game. You have to love the grind. The 6am gym sessions, the practices, the conditioning, and the times you spent working on your craft when no one is watching. That is what separates the average from the ones who persevere. It is the infatuation with the sport or job; that alters your well-being and demands attention at all hours of the day. Even in the hardest of times, it is the love for the game that should give you that extra ounce of energy; to always finish strong. The road isn’t always pretty, but if you learn to enjoy the ride.

During my playing days, I went through a lot of different systems, and a lot of different philosophies. Some of the methods worked; some not so much. But regardless of what direction in the batting average those philosophies took me, I always showed respect for the game; for my coaches, and peers. My parents raised me to always be open minded and respect everyone’s ideologies. If they worked, great. And if they didn’t, you politely listen with one ear; and out the other. Regardless of the fact, you have to be receptive to constructive criticism; and stay humble. As you play the game, you will come across a lot of different people with different personalities. Some a lot more difficult than others. The only thing I can say to that is to entrust only in those that align with your beliefs, goals, and ideologies. And, through different circumstances that inevitably test your character, you will alter your judgement to surround yourself around the right people.

The one important thing I can leave our corporate athletes in short is this: you have to want to continue to grow/evolve yourself everyday. You have to ask questions; learn under the greatest and best minds you can revolve yourself around within your profession/on the field, and soak in every conversation with coaches/players you come across. Be respectful and you might learn the best lessons through a future hall of fame coach; or the teammate that hits alongside you. And above all else, respect yourself; respect your coaches; and respect the game. The best investment one can make is on yourself. And, the more you learn the game, the higher the “ceiling”. You combine that with the same relentless work ethic and passion that I speak of often; and the sky is your limit. Believe in yourself and become a student of the game; whether it’s on a field somewhere or in the corporate world. You may learn something.