Confidence = Success
When I think about my own life or observe the world around me, I've often wondered about the factors determine success in our lives. I've always valued the role of confidence in the equation - but this week, saw it play out in powerful, demonstrative ways.
My son, Jeremy, is a good soccer player. He's hard working, he listens to advice, and he studies his mistakes - slowly honing his skill. He began this fall season frustrated as he spent the vast majority of the games sitting on the bench - knowing that he would only improve when he gained the experience playing - and showing the coach what he could contribute. A few weeks ago, he began seeing more play time - but at several different positions - and never in the same place long enough to get his bearings. Ever determined, he rarely (if ever) complained - and stuck it out - taking every chance he had to prove himself - to himself, his team, and his coach.
This week was the NEPSAC tournament - and Jeremy found himself playing forward for the first time this season - and had the best game of his life. He made great passes - and always seemed to be in the "right" place to keep a play moving forward including two great shots on goal. After the game, his coach called him out during the team meeting:
"Every year, I have one player that shows me something during the playoffs that I didnt know he had - and that has the ability to take the team to the next level. Congratulations, Jeremy... you played a great game today!"
Those words provided the reinforcement and validation Jeremy needed to acknowledge his growth in the game this year - and approach his next game with a CONFIDENCE and resolve. The coach played Jeremy at forward again on Saturday - and Jeremy continued his great play. He played an intelligent, and aggressive game - and with 34 seconds to play he scored the winning goal - sending his team to the championship game on Sunday. Which made me think... we're all good - but can never realize our full potential without BELIEVING that we can be successful.
