First Contact

“No plan survives first contact with the enemy.” - 19th-century Prussian field marshal Helmuth von Moltke the Elder

“When you come in out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in.” - Haruki Murakami 

Today's Playday creates opportunity against good competition. 

Arguably, the reality survival show Alone (History Channel) best represents man's struggle with nature. Highly skilled competitors survive alone in similar ecosystems (Season 12, South African desert) and compete for winner-take-all $500,000. For the ultimate winners, it's about the challenge, not money. 

Coaches and players need plans, but remember von Moltke's caution. 

Compete. The competition for sporting roles resembles wilderness survival. 

• Baseline skills - refine 
• Competitive spirit
• Growth mindset 
• Adaptability and flexibility

Simplify. In baseball, it's knowing your "out pitch." Leverage your skill. Prioritize your best ability (attacking, serving, blocking, defending) while growing your total game. 

Pass. Consistent passing is essential. Think "middle of the court, high" which makes life simpler for your setter. Don't let an error bleed into a series of mistakes. 

Believe. Don't worry about perfection. President Reagan told a joke about two hunters sitting around a campfire. They spotted a grizzly and one scrambled to don his sneakers. His buddy said, "You can't outrun a grizzly." Sneaker Guy said, "I just have to outrun you." Become a better passer and play more. 

Improve. Focus on daily progress. Serve a little better. Defend better. Communicate better. You'll get there. 

Preparation is essential; adaptability is decisive.

Lagniappe. Get back on the road. 

"“Whenever Intuit makes a wrong turn,” UBS analyst Brent Thill told The New York Times, “they quickly get off the gravel and back onto the blacktop. That’s why the company has done so well for such a long time.”" - "Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World with OKRs" by John Doerr

Lagniappe 2. Murakami quotes:

"Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional." 

"Whatever it is you're seeking won't come in the form you're expecting."

"As long as you have the courage to admit mistakes, things can be turned around."