Just Do It…Like Mike!
Photo courtesy of basketball.fanpiece.com
What is focus? There are various meanings to the word. But one we’ll discuss in this context is the definition provided by the Cambridge Dictionary, which is the ability to give your full attention to something.
Today, the ability to give your full attention, or one could say, undivided attention to one thing, is a superpower. There are always distractions continually vying for our attention. This or that social app, games, the latest and greatest movies and streaming television programs and the list goes on. To push that aside and focus on something important is not as easy as it used to be.
It is vitally important to harness this superpower with STEAM. Doing so helps to focus on creating a wonderful “something” of our own making. Our ability to focus will often mean the difference between what is mediocre, good, or great.
A real-life example that is used often, and none-the-less still remarkable, is that of Michael Jordan. He is one of the greatest, if not arguably the greatest, NBA player to play the game. However, his level of greatness wasn’t achieved easily. It was years in the making.
His journey to becoming the G.O.A.T was a combination of exceptional talent and a relentless work ethic. There was also an unwavering focus on improvement. Here are 10 key factors that contributed to his rise to greatness:
Skill Mastery: Jordan dedicated countless hours to honing his basketball skills. He practiced all aspects of the game continuously, aiming for perfection.
Work Ethic: Jordan’s work ethic was unparalleled. He pushed himself to the limits during practice, often being the first to arrive and the last to leave the gym. His commitment to the time required to refine his skills set him apart from his peers.
Competitive Drive: Jordan’s fierce competitiveness fueled his desire to be the best. He approached every game, practice, and challenge with a relentless will to win, motivating himself and his teammates to excel.
Mental Toughness: Jordan’s ability to maintain focus and perform under pressure was a hallmark of his greatness. He thrived in high-stakes situations, showcasing remarkable composure and mental resilience.
Continuous Improvement: Despite his achievements, Jordan never rested on his laurels. He kept getting better by analyzing his performances, learning from his mistakes, and adapting his game to stay ahead of the competition.
Leadership: Jordan’s leadership on and off the court was integral to his success. He inspired and pushed his teammates to elevate their performances, creating a culture of excellence within his teams.
Adaptability: Jordan strengthened his playing style over the years, adapting to changes in the game and his own physical abilities. This adaptability extended his career and allowed him to maintain his competitive edge.
Positive Mindset: Jordan’s firm belief in himself and his unwavering self-assurance were the key to his success. He visualized success, focused on his strengths, and approached challenges with a winning attitude.
Preparation: Jordan would study his opponents and develop game strategies. He would take time to understand the game’s complexities to have a tactical advantage over the other team.
Legacy of Excellence: Jordan’s legacy of excellence inspires future generations of athletes. His dedication to his craft and his focus on being the best remain an enduring source of inspiration for athletes across all sports.
Michael Jordan became the best because of his talent, work ethic, focus, and desire to push himself. The result is that he solidified his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
With STEAM related work, you may not need to muster up the tenacity of Michael Jordan to find success. However, you can apply the traits Michael Jordan used to achieve success to the STEAM-related projects you find interesting.
What about acquiring mastery of a particular science related skill? And there is always a need for continuous improvement in whatever you do. How far will manifesting a positive mindset take you? It is up to you to make it happen, but you can do it. Try it out. Focus like Mike and then see where you can go, knowing that the sky is the limit.