Athletes are no strangers to honing their skills day-in and day-out on the field. However, what happens outside of the spotlight is perhaps even more important for their development.
Thing rings true for student-athletes and amateurs alike. Whether you’re hoping to make it to the big leagues or simply wanted to make sure your mind is on more than just your favorite sport, there are some particular skills every athlete should pay attention to in their personal and professional lives.
The following three skills and habits will not only make sure that you’re living your life to the fullest, but also helps those looking to truly become the best athlete they can possibly be.
Embracing Entrepreneurship and “Street Smarts”
Perhaps one of the most important things that athletes can do for themselves it to become more business-savvy. Even if you don’t consider yourself to know much about the worlds of making money or marketing, understanding how to be “street smart” can save your career as an athlete or otherwise.
Think about it. We constantly hear stories about star athletes who made millions eventually squandered their wealth because they had no idea how to manage their money. Rather than potentially waste your own fortune, strive to break the cycle to learn the ropes of saving, investing and minding your budget.
In a way, managing your money and doing business is akin to a sport. That’s exactly what investor Tim Sykes notes in his motivational message to penny stock traders. Just like in a sport, you have to be persistence, willing to practice and also push through plateaus to reach your goals.
Setting Your Own Goals
Just as you strive to become stronger or faster for athletic purposes, you should likewise regularly set goals for your personal and professional life. When you have something to work toward, you constantly set yourself up to improve rather than stagnate. Focusing on goals outside of your sport may seem difficult or time-consuming, but consider how they could potentially change your life.
For example, what are your long-term career or educational goals? College education? Starting your own business? What are you doing to improve your relationships with your friends and family?
These pieces of your life are simply too important to ignore. Setting long-term and short-term goals regarding everything from keeping your space clean to going to college can help you visualize your priorities in life and guarantee your wellbeing.
Practicing Meditation and Mindfulness
The physical stress that you put on your body likewise has an impact on your mental state. Taking a step back to breathe and reflect not only improves your focus, but also creates a better relationship between your body and mind.
Likewise, meditation helps you to live in the moment and ultimately practice mindfulness. Being mindful of your actions both on and on the field can help you avoid rash decisions and keep yourself calm during times of distress. Besides, there’s a reason why more professional athletes are practicing meditation than ever before.
What defines an athlete doesn’t always boil down to what happens in the realms of a game. By following these tips, you ensure that you’re well-rounded and able to take on any challenge on or off the field.