In The Zone

The closer you get to a goal, the further away it seems. This is the typical illusion that will discourage the masses. If something is not truly in your heart, then it is easy to walk away. To be successful, you have to summon something deep inside and then power through. The great ones have mastered this approach. It requires unparalleled focus, dedication, and preparation. The great ones seem to have the power to summon this inner strength when others appear to falter under pressure. The sports arena allows you to view this rare ability, but you have to understand what is happening.

For example, Tiger Woods may be a couple of strokes off the lead going into the final round of a tournament. In the final round, he elevates his mental and physical abilities to a point that is rarely attainable by his fellow competitors. Most people would use a general phrase like…”Tiger is the best!”

Let’s analyze this phrase. Tiger plays in a field of professional golfers.

First, most people underestimate the spectrum in which he competes. Every person in a professional sport has been a prodigy in their respective realm. The professional arena is where these prodigies compete.

Second, we disregard the environment in which he performs. It is difficult to do something well. It is even more difficult to do something well when being watched by millions.

Third, we do not imagine how much pressure is put upon top performers. The world has set the precedent that average is failure for Mr. Woods. He is expected to win every tournament. This means that when Tiger prepares, he does not prepare to be average. He prepares to dominate. He prepares to dominate on command. He attains this rare, higher level that is only available to others by chance or luck. This level is far beyond skill, It Is True Perfection!

The great ones have the ability to turn this rare, higher level on and off. Most athletes have a familiar term that describes this feeling. It is called being “In The Zone”. The great ones live for the waning moments in a contest where others are overcome by fear and doubt. Everyone else is nervous and tense, but their mind is clear and their body is calm.

At this point it is not about your opponent or the obstacles in your life. It is simply about you.

The Great Ones Truly Compete Against Themselves!

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