While I was growing up I was always super competitive in everything I did, besides in the classroom.
I can remember having knock down drag out arguments with my mother daily about grades but it never changed my actions. While I was a Junior at Indian Hill, Vanderbilt came to visit and was very interested in me playing at their college but wasn’t able to recruit me due to my grades.
It was at this point that I realized that sports wasn’t the only important part of my life and I needed to really buckle down and focus on academics. I was able to turn the corner and become competitive in the classroom as well which allowed me to continue my football career into college.
While in college, I met most of the best friends I have in the world, my future wife, and ultimately it ensured that I receive a job once my football playing days were over.
My Advice
You only have so many interactions with people during the day, make sure that those interactions are positive because you never know what that other person may be going through.
Also, remember that you only have a finite amount of time to compete in a sport whether that’s in high school, college, or the pros. Be competitive in the classroom and give back to your community because that is what ultimately will carry you throughout your life.
Great idea: “…do it to the best of your ability, because there’s only a finite amount of time that you can do that.”
Also, great point about getting what you need, not always what you want.
I completely understand the tough seasons with sports, for me at the college level. Really appreciate what you said about “finite time to compete.” I miss my running days! I love how God is faithful to teach us and help us in our careers and others areas of gifting. It’s wonderful, Bo, that you’re now working for a Christian organization. God does answer prayer, even when we don’t know what to ask. Thank you for sharing your testimony and advice!
I think Bo when God opens the door , it might not be the door that we wanted, or thought we wanted, but it was the one that God had planned. Being grateful that his plans are so much better than ours. Sharing our joy with others, just might help them.