You don't get this opportunity many times in life to compete against the best in the world every night. I certainly didn't expect to have 10 or 11 years of chances at it, so I don't want to take that for granted.
John StocktonRead
I was always the kid dribbling the ball on the sidelines, hoping someone would pick me. I'd go with my older brother to the gym or park, and when I went out there, I'd pass the ball so I could get picked again.
Interpretation
This quote reflects the journey of perseverance and the desire for acceptance in sports and life.
John Stockton's quote captures the essence of persistence and the yearning for inclusion. It illustrates a childhood experience where the author, while feeling sidelined, actively sought opportunities to engage and prove himself, highlighting the importance of determination and camaraderie in achieving success.
In practice
This quote is perfect for a motivational speech aimed at young athletes.
You don't get this opportunity many times in life to compete against the best in the world every night. I certainly didn't expect to have 10 or 11 years of chances at it, so I don't want to take that for granted.
You can't afford to hop around and act like a kid when you have to get back on defense and worry about the other parts of the game. But at the end, when the buzzer sounds, you have the luxury of hopping around and looking foolish for a while.
Why was I able to be able to pass? What did I do right that allowed me to make a pass - any given pass? There's balance; there's vision.
I never thought I'd make it in the NBA, so everything else is gravy.
I don't think about the record, because winning games has to be our focus, and if we lost focus thinking about that record, I would really regret it. How will I feel later on? People tell me it will mean a lot after I retire, for the kids and me. But to me, it's just a stat. It's something people enjoy talking about. Me? I just enjoy playing.
Successful people ask for the criticism of others and consider its merit.
One thing about a film production is that it must run efficiently; there is no room for dead wood. So somebody that hangs around by the coffee wagon won't get hired again, but somebody who is dedicated and works hard and really puts out will get noticed by the people that matter around there and will get asked to come back again.
I look for the entrepreneur to capture my attention. If you don't come out with a great presentation, you're dead. That's a big red flag.
The secret of success is to make your mind work for you - not against you. This means constantly being positive, constantly setting up challenges you can meet - either today, next week, or next month etc.
Winning is not about how many medals you get-it's about accomplishing goals and just being the best you can be!
My belief is firm in a law of compensation. The true rewards are ever in proportion to the labour and sacrifices made.
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