04/12/2023
Story time 😂
I remember as a child, there were those giant jaw breaker candies. They were so cool. My favorite ones were the ones that changed flavors as the got smaller and it was always enjoyable to get to that next flavor. I remember all my childhood friends had one at some point and the truth is there were many treats that had similar qualities. Tootsie Pop, Bubble gum pops etc. all used a similar practice. A prize in the center that took time to get to. Now that I’m older I look back on those things and realize there are some cool little concepts in these little moments. I remember one of my friends broke a tooth on one of the jawbreakers trying to get to the next flavor and while thinking about it I came to a realization.
It’s a lesson in patience, endurance and discipline.
Each stage of growth comes with a inherent struggle. Patience isn’t waiting for something to happen, although that is part of it, it’s enduring a certain circumstance whether it’s good or bad until the goal you are trying to reach is achieved. Forcing these things to happen bring on some unfortunate events such as; not enjoying the benefits of the struggle, or not the reward not truly being graciously acknowledged.
The reason I’m writing this is because these same concepts come into play in your journey to be a better pool player. The best coaches will all agree that if a player were to ask them “How do you make this shot?”, the answer they want to give is “First we have to work on your fundamentals”. To often we look at the faults in our game as missing a particular shot or getting out of line and hooking ourselves, when the truth is these are just the result of poor fundamentals and a lack of consistency.
My advice, and I do my best to take this in as well, is to Be Patient, Endure the Process of Growth, and maintain a Disciplined Approach whether in practice or competition. The reward in the center of of all the hard work will almost always be worthwhile.
As always shoot straight and have a great day!!!
John Hill
