One of the undertakings Gretchen Rubin tackled in The Happiness Project was starting a blog. She found that the act of writing gave her an outlet for reflection, helped clarify her thoughts, and deepened engagement with her happiness journey. While I started writing this blog long before I read the book, I can certainly relate to the transformative power of regular public writing. For me, what began as an accountability mechanism to achieve a goal of writing a page a day about tennis, this site has evolved into something much greater. It has heightened my connection to the game, increased my understanding of the rules, and opened doors that wouldn’t have been accessible otherwise.
This blog has forced me to engage with tennis on a deeper level through examination of the subtle aspects of the game. While I have always been a rules junkie, dissecting the nuances and implications of the complex framework of rules and regulations that define how tennis is played has deepened my understanding. This journey has plunged me into topics that might have otherwise been overlooked. Along the way, I have sharpened my own on-court performance via the insights gained into mental aspects of competition, tactics, and strategy. Researching, reflecting, and articulating ideas has expanded my knowledge and made me a more thoughtful player. This blog has become a constant reminder that tennis is not just a physical game but also an intellectual pursuit.
Beyond personal growth, this site has connected me with a broader tennis community—players, coaches, and fellow enthusiasts who share a love for the game. Conversations sparked by writing have led to new insights, fresh perspectives, and opened doors for me to make greater contributions to the sport. Tennis thrives on shared experiences. The ongoing conversations and dialogue directly resulting from this effort have been transformational to my personal experience.
Most importantly, the daily writing has refined my thinking. When I sit down to put thoughts into words, I have to clarify my own perspectives, challenge my assumptions, and consider different viewpoints. That process has made me a better advocate for tennis. By thinking critically and engaging more deeply with the sport, I continue to grow in ways that extend far beyond the court.
Fiend at Court is a perfect example of how repurposing previously unused time can lead to something far greater. It has grown into a platform that has expanded my knowledge, deepened my connection to the game, and connected me to a vibrant community of fellow enthusiasts. Without a doubt, writing this blog has made me happier. It is a labor of love, fueled by a genuine passion for tennis and a desire to keep exploring everything that makes the game happen.
Throughout 2025, I am dedicating the first full weekend of every month to exploring how ideas from Gretchen Rubin’s The Happiness Project (<- Sponsored Link) can spark greater enjoyment and happiness in tennis. This is a non-tennis book that I have come to believe everyone should read. Seriously, you should get your hands on a copy of this book and consider trying some of the techniques described by the author.
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