[004] control what you can.

MANAGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS. CONTROL WHAT YOU CAN, LET GO OF THE REST.

To the person:

In the pursuit of our goals, we often paint a vivid picture of what our journey should resemble. Expectations, a necessary fuel for success, serve as both guiding lights and potential disruptors to our mental well-being. The art lies in discerning between expectations within our control and those beyond our influence, a practice crucial for maintaining a resilient headspace.

Expectations, when channeled effectively, propel us forward, providing motivation and clarity. They set a standard, urging us to reach for excellence. However, when these expectations become rigid blueprints is when problems arise. Obsessing over outcomes or circumstances beyond our control can be a recipe for disappointment and frustration. External factors, unforeseen events, and the actions of others are often unpredictable variables in our journey. YOU ARE ONLY IN CONTROL OF WHAT YOU ARE IN CONTROL OF.

To the player:

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve personally been or seen an athlete lose their mind about things they have absolutely no control over. Trust me, I understand that relinquishing control can be the hardest thing in the world to do, especially when you are chasing a dream.

BUT,

THINK ABOUT THIS.

Setting expectations for disciplined workout habits and a positive attitude is within our control. Setting an expectation for showing up with a consistent level of intensity is also in our control. Fixating on external factors like other whether of not someone else has a proper attitude of if the shot actually went in or not, may lead to undue stress. The wisdom lies in acknowledging the distinction, channeling energy towards actionable expectations, and gracefully navigating the uncertainties beyond control. It’s the subtle art of working with a purpose and allowing yourself to fall in love with the process not the destination. If you put in the work to make the shot, you can live with the result. Good or bad.