Never Back Down

I’ve been writing about what it takes to have a winning attitude, from a speech I gave recently at a UAPB baseball team fundraiser. The acronym “WIN” stands for “Whatever It Takes,” “I Stay Focused” and today’s topic: Never Back Down.

I’m reminded of a story I once heard about a young baseball player. His long-ball hitting got the attention of a pro scout, and the boy was offered a contract. When he went off to spring training he performed well. Each week, he wired his mother back home in Mississippi to inform her of his progress.

• Week One: “Dear Mom: I’m leading all batters. These pitchers aren’t so tough.”
• Week Two: “Dear Mom: Looks like I will be starting in the infield. Now hitting .500.”
• Week Three: “Dear Mom: Today they started throwing curves. Will be home on Friday.”

Life is like that, isn’t it? We think we’re doing well. Things seem to be pretty much under control, and even going our way. Then out of nowhere comes a curve ball, and all of a sudden we’re faced with a choice: Throw in the towel and quit? Or hang in there and learn to adapt and change?

No matter how charmed your life may be, you’ll inevitably face an unexpected obstacle at some point – we all do. What separates the “Win at Life” folks from the rest of the pack is their response to those obstacles. Frankly, I’m amazed by how many people are like the player in the story above – all too willing to pack it in and head home when things get tough.

When I was the clubhouse manager for the Travelers, we had a sign up in the locker room that put it like this: “Winners never quit. And quitters never win.”

To be successful in life, you have to learn how to overcome the natural tendency to give up when things don’t go your way. The Bible calls this quality “perseverance” — something we’re all encouraged to add to our faith. The Apostle Paul wrote “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And
hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.” (Romans 5:3-5)

Once you’ve identified your goals – those milestones of achievement that grow out of your purpose and passion – a “never back down” attitude becomes your best ally. Few things in life are as satisfying as overcoming the obstacles that pop up along the way. Learn to hang in there and hit the curve ball, and before you know it, you’ll be well on your way in your pursuit of the winning life you were created to enjoy.