Lyn Smith

The Path to Greatness

After watching Djokovic and Nadal duke it out in a grueling 5 hour, 53 minute tennis match yesterday, I began thinking about what it takes to play at that level. How do we become great at what we do? 

1) Play people who challenge you and make you play your best game. Intentionally seek out people who do what you do, or want to do, really well. Follow them on social media, listen to them speak, and read what they write. Make note of what they do that works. Surround yourself with people who will question and motivate you. Being around people who agree with you all the time will not get you farther. You need loyal, bold friends and co-workers who are invested in your success, and will not let you squander yourself.

2) Play your game. Be confident in who God has made you to be and to what He has called you. While you observe and learn from others, don’t compromise your character and integrity.

3) Study your opponent. Be prepared. Know everything you can about your job or subject. Pursue it relentlessly. Put daily disciplines in place that prepare you for the next opportunity. Read, study, watch, talk about, and strategize. Don’t take anything for granted. 

4) Choose the best coach. Ask God to help you find someone who is in your industry, or is generally wise and shrewd, or who will study and pray with you. You need a person who will coach you through various situations, difficulties, relationships and decisions. It can be a professional person like a life coach (if you can afford that), or a trusted friend, or a retired person who successfully did what you are doing.

5) Practice, practice, practice. Being great at anything takes tremendous focus and commitment. It means saying no to a lot of fun, good things, in order to say yes to the best. It means working harder than other people in your field. It means disciplining your body and mind for optimum health. 

There are no shortcuts to true greatness. There is a cost.

As Nadal said during the match, “Play your best in every moment. Fight until the last ball.”  

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