I think it’s safe to say that most little boys have played baseball in the backyard with their dad. My dad and I had a routine almost every day when he got home to work on throwing and hitting drills. He was and is such a good teacher.
One of the things he taught me from an early age was that when I had two strikes, I had to swing at any pitch that was even remotely close to a strike. Now this is a universally taught baseball principle but my father emphasized heavily. The reason for swinging on two strikes is that if you watch the ball go by you essentially eliminate yourself from any opportunity at a play.
My father was and still is very passionate and competitive when it comes to baseball. I remember being scared to strikeout watching the pitch go by because that would be an awkward ride home considering that was dad’s number one rule.
These lessons from dad shaped my character and is a great lesson for us today. Standing still, is worse than failure. I know many people that won’t make a decision for fear of making the wrong one. They see neutrality as an advantage but it is really inferior to failure.
Swinging creates two opportunities, one for success and one for learning. Not swinging eliminates all opportunities of growth or success.
Some of you reading this have wanted to start a company, write a book or change your career path. Step up to the plate, keep your eye on the prize and swing.
Justin Trapp
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