Much Ado Abt SPORTS

Hey, I hear this all the time, "I am a good swimmer, golfer, shooter etc etc, I want to do better, how should I go about it, I dont have any idea/ there is no help around". The story of our life in India.

I wish there were answers for all of us struggling to make something out of ourselves in sports. Why should academics be the only field where the young can achieve something. Why cannot sports become a part of our lives or for some, why cant it become a lifestyle, a profession. Arts, painting, craftsmanship, acting, singing are all professions that people have opportunities in, building a career in sports is more difficult and with fewer examples around.

I guess it needs a change in attitude towards sports, we are a long way from playing sports for recreation. And that puts us away from having sports clubs etc which we could support and thus encourage talents in our own neighborhoods. Even Inter-school tournaments, I am not sure if they carry with them the required support from the parents/school authorities. But if you have the talent and you want to do well despite the limitations around you; GO TEACH YOUR SELF.

Self teach yourself, yeah.

I know its not Simple as in Simple but then when you have 'fire in the belly' and no one to show you the path, dont let that turn into frustration. Start educating yourself about that subject, its going to take a longer time to accomplish results but the fire will keep you going and at least you are doing what you love. Educate yourself from the books (there are enough on every subject) or from being in the company of those who are achievers in that field or hear their experiences. Start absorbing. Replicate success stories, it works.

This can work for everyone and in any field. Typically I hear of the problem of the lack of coaches in sports. You can make the best of the 'bad' situation by becoming your own coach. Its possible. I know of succesful sportsmen who have done it at some point of time or the other. I have done it in the initial period of my life and won medals. 

Its also important to know how to get help. Understand your situation, find out who can help or who can get help, communicate the problem precisely to get the correct solution. People who can help are generally short on time so be precise in your communication. Internet is a great resource for information. Bottom line- IF YOU REALLY WANT TO DO IT YOU CAN DO IT.

I have also seen plenty of guys take to drinking, smoking. Thats the elevator that goes down. If your friends do it, fine but if they ask you to do it- SAY NO. You don't need the support of a crutch (smoking/drinking) to appear cool, its your attitude(your knowledge, communication skills, your principles/values)  that counts.

BEST WISHES