Unforced Errors

“What you can do, however, is strive to make fewer unforced errors over time by using sound judgment and techniques to make the best decision at any given time.”
— Super Thinking, Gabriel Weinberg & Lauren McCann

Life is full of unforced errors - mistakes that aren’t caused by overwhelming pressure, but by lapses in judgment, execution, or preparation. They are often painful and sometimes game-changing. They separate success from failure more often than raw talent ever does.

We all know them:

• Missing an exit on the highway

• Leaving out or mis-measuring an ingredient

• Misreading a test question

• Missing a page on a standardized exam

• A scheduling misunderstanding that means missing the bus

• A breakdown in communication at the worst possible moment

Volleyball is no different.

At its core, winning comes down to a simple truth:
Against good teams, you must score points and give fewer away.

Unforced errors are points donated.

Unforced Errors in Volleyball

Unforced errors generally fall into three categories:

1. Decision-related errors

These reflect judgment.

• Attacking a low-probability set

• Swinging at an unattackable “free ball”

• Miscommunication that creates “campfires”

• Service time violations

• Rotation errors

• Failing to cover an attacker

Good decisions don’t guarantee points — but bad ones almost guarantee losses.

2. Execution-related errors

These reflect skill and consistency.

• Service foot faults

• Overpasses

• Missed or wide sets

• Double contacts over the net

• Shanked serve-receive balls

• Defensive plays into the net

Execution errors shrink with repetition, focus, and attention to detail.

3. Behavioral errors

These reflect professionalism — and they matter more than we like to admit.

• Poor academic habits

• “Missed movement” (late for practice, missing the bus)

• Violations of chemical health policy

• Breaking team rules

• Misuse of social media

These errors don’t show up on the stat sheet — but they always show up on the scoreboard eventually.

The Separation Point

Exceptional players - and exceptional teams - reduce unforced errors over time. They sharpen decision-making, improve execution, and hold themselves to standards of professional behavior.

Talent scores points. Judgment protects them.

The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is fewer self-inflicted wounds - today than yesterday, this season more than last.

That’s winning the hidden game.

Lagniappe. Bring "competitive joy" to the court.