Has anyone seen the movie with Mel Gibson where he works for a big marketing firm and has the ability to listen to people’s thoughts? Not sure of the name, let me Google it. The movie is called “What Women Want”.
Imagine having this ability and knowing what your coach, parents and even supporters think of you. What about your girlfriend, wife or boss? Good times.
Players, myself included are self-centered. Just ask my girlfriend (smiles). But there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s not a negative, its just reality (that’s right!).
Players, especially young ones, stumble around in a daze. They play soccer in a trance. Their bundle of experiences, beliefs, thoughts, fears, motivation and any other word you can throw in here, creates their world, their soccer world. Not you or your pointed finger.
Each of us, in short, have experienced this state. A state of confusion, dislike and fear. After all, it’s our illusion. We’ll never admit it, but we’re definitely in it. Yes, I no longer play the game but the dreaded 9 to 5 sure makes up for it. The illusion of work and the fear of the boss, what more can I say. What about all the ass lickers running behind your boss? Pull your tongue out! Sorry for drifting.
As you probably already know, (you better) I write about it every second day, there are two ways to get kids to play soccer.
Do you know what they are?
Most coaches and even parents will sell you the idea of pain, a smack across the bottom or a kick in the ass.
“Do this or else”, should send shivers down most spines.
Why?
Why create fear or even misery. Don’t threaten or force your players or child to play. Let them play I say, let’s make a difference and focus on pleasure. Let’s make these young players happy. Let’s give them an incredible self worth.
Put yourself in your child’s shoes for one second.
Have you done it?
Now, can you imagine how wonderful soccer would be for all of us if we focused on our wants, our desires, our pleasures, our goals and not our fears or pain.
Remember this, you either go towards what you want or away from what you don’t want. It’s the classic case of the stick and the dangling carrot.
Sounds simple doesn’t it?
Then answer the following,
Which direction do you want your child to travel? Which direction do you want your players to travel? Which direction do you want to travel?
“May the winds of destiny blow you to the stars.”
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