Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

One of the polarizing things about sports is that they can bring out the best in us and can also bring out the worst in us. Whether it’s making a game-winning play, or being on the losing side of the same play, over and over again sports reveal character.  No matter the situation, there are two things that each individual athlete can control: their attitude and their effort.  Remaining optimistic throughout an athletic competition is not an easy feat, but it is possible.  So is giving everything you’ve got.  Neither one is easy, but they are worth it…. ​

 The Navy SEALs use a slogan: Get comfortable being uncomfortable.  The point is to stay focused on the mission, no matter the obstacles that may interject.  In sports athletes may encounter poor officiating, hostile crowds, dirty tactics by the other team, and countless other things that do not directly effect the outcome. Unfortunately, entirely too often these obstacles are excuses to explain why a game didn’t go as planned.

The bottom line is this: Winning is a skill.  Those who stay focused on what they need to accomplish, not why it is difficult to do so, possess it. Those who immediately assess blame or, worse, quit when things get tough, do not.  Athletics present a representation of life because it is a never ending “What’s next?” scenario.  Both will present unforeseen challenges that make us uncomfortable, but that doesn’t have to stop us.  Do something great, then move on and do it again.  Stay focused on the goal, no matter how far away it is or what obstacles are in between.