Yesterday, I revealed that I’m not a big fan of most inspirational signs. However, if a motivational poster contains a sentiment that can drive personal achievement that can be directly applied to the mastery of high-performance tennis, my attitude changes dramatically. Today, I am sharing a sign that I made myself. Not surprisingly, it resonates with me
The phrase “Will this help me cover more court?” adorns a sign I made and hung in a room in my Mom’s house that has always been designated as a combined office and gym. It is hung on the wall adjacent to the two computer monitors that garner most of my attention when I am there. The sign reminds me that every decision I make impacts my speed and agility on the court. That directly impacts how well I can compete. It is intended to drive and influence my nutritional decisions and off-court workouts when I am in that location.
The phrase is not exactly original. I shamelessly adapted it from the framework British Olympic gold medalist Ben Hunt-Davis originally developed and articulated. His philosophy is built on the idea that the most effective way to achieve ambitious goals is to focus on how each action and decision directly drives results. In Ben Hunt-Davis’s Olympic experience, the 2000 British men’s rowing team members spent a year training by questioning whether everything they chose to do would literally make the boat go faster.
The following YouTube video of Ben Hunt Davis shares more of that experience:
While the original mantra centered around a boat, mine revolves around the tennis court. However, the essence is the same: A relentless focus on making decisions that drive the desired outcomes. Every time I see that sign, I’m reminded that achieving excellence isn’t about wishful thinking but deliberate action.
Consistent, focused effort is the engine of high performance. If you have an ambitious goal, ask yourself at every crossroad, ‘Will this help me move closer to it?’ Ultimately, dreams may be the spark, but good decisions, self-discipline, and hard work fuels the journey.
