What is Your Athletic Vision?

Successful athletes and coaches have a clear vision. This statement is probably not surprising. However, there is a special distinction in the vision of the most elite performers - their vision is not only clear, but they take ownership of it. Anyone can have a dream, but most are afraid to own it because there is a real risk involved in doing so. In owning your goal, you are declaring and acting in a manner in which you are accepting responsibility for the outcome of your goal - for better or worse. You are willing to make mistakes and look the fool, and yes, even in the end, not achieve your vision. But it is inevitable that if you do not take ownership of your vision, you will never accomplish it.
Now is that time of year when many coaches and athletes begin think hard about their goals, and it is now that you have the opportunity to ensure you are not one of those individuals, who, at this time next year sits in regret thinking of what you did not do. So get off your butt and make it happen! Here are some important keys to remember:

1. Find and prioritize your vision - reflect and decide the vision most important to you, the dream or goal that makes your heart beat.

2. Take ownership of your vision - make it clear and vivid. Write it down and share it with important others. If you vision is like a 55-inch High Definition Plasma TV, then you got it. If not, get back to the drawing board and make it clear.

3. Address self-doubts or fears about your vision. Do not run from fear and doubts - bring them into the light and embrace them.

4. Act and behave in ways required to achieve your vision. There are certain things you must do even though they involve risk.

5. Enjoy the ride!

Play Smart, Play Hard, Play Well!