"Time and balance: the two most difficult things to have control over, yet they are both the things that we do control." - Catherine Pulsifer
Being a Calculated Risk Taker: Part 4
To be a calculated risk taker is a skill that needs to be developed.
It’s the idea of challenging yourself to be comfortable with the uncomfortable because with risk, there is always a chance that you will experience success or failure. At the foundation, it takes a vision / expectation of what you hope to accomplish. Next, you need to figure out how to put that vision into action. A Mission Statement puts your vision into action. It’s the daily expectations that allow you to motivate, build confidence, practice with intensity, and perform with passion.
Keys to Developing a Mission Statement:
1. Legacy: define your legacy by asking yourself:
a. How do I accomplish my vision?
b. How do I define myself as an athlete?
c. What is my legacy?
2. Brainstorm: list words and phrases that highlight why you love your sport, this includes feelings, people, your future goals, and your answers to the legacy questions.
3. Character: circle three things from that list that mean the most to you, i.e., leadership, challenge, and effort.
4. Mission Statement: use the words and statements as your inspiration to create your mission statement, i.e., “I want to be a resilient and a hardworking player that leads by example.”
5. Reminders: keep it close by doing things like, writing the words and/or statement on your shoes or on your body, create a bag tag to put on your equipment bag, or post them on your mirror in your bathroom.
6. Adjust: as your vision changes, so does your mission. Don't forget to adjust your mission statement over time.
While the end goal is important, the lessons learned along the way are invaluable. So embrace and enjoy the journey!