Why do you Play the Game?

When I was younger, I asked a coach of mine how I could get be better. His answer seemed strange at the time, “Know why you play the game.”

At first, that statement did not make complete sense to me, but the more I thought about it and the older I got I started to understand his words better. If we do not know why we are doing what it is we are doing, how could you possibly be good at whatever it is you do?

Why do you play softball? Is it for the love of the game, to earn a scholarship someday, to be with your friends and be part of a team, or is it a combination of these things? The question is something you should take the time to think on. Understanding the why can help you layout your path and reach your goals whatever they may be.

Playing for the love of the game is hopefully on everyone’s list. Sports should be fun, and if it is not something you enjoy, you should consider why you are doing it at all. Many people say doing what you love is the key to success, but it is not the only factor. One thing it does do is, it allows you to relax and play with passion versus pressure. Practice will no longer feel like work, but it will feel more like fun. These things can make you a better player.

Playing so that you can earn a scholarship or because you have a goal to play in college is probably going to be on many of your lists. There is nothing wrong with that, and it is a solid goal to have. Realize that to reach that goal; it takes more than just playing in a showcase and sending a few emails. It also takes a lot of hard work, repetition, sacrifice, and dedication. Use that goal to motivate yourself as a player and make choices that will help you get there.

For some people, the social side of sports is what drives them. Sports can teach us a lot about things such as teamwork, conflict resolution, friendship, and hard work. These skills are all needed throughout life.

There are many reasons people choose to do what they do. Knowing your reasons for why you do something is important and helps give you a better understanding of where you are trying to go.

Generally, this is not a question you ask yourself once and move on; it is an ongoing process and serves as a self-evaluation. One of the best times to ask yourself this question is at the end of the season. Confirm that you are doing what you want to be doing or use it to help make your next decision.

That simple question can prove to have significant benefits for you as a player and or even a coach. Having a better understanding of ourselves can allow us to have a better understanding of the game as well. Finally, this does not just apply to sports; it is something you can use in your career down the road as well.