Over the past few weeks I have been really focused on my work ethic, and how that more than talent itself determines how successful you or I can be.  I grew up playing sports competitively, played through college, and still play today.  One thing that still resonates with me from sports is that there is always somebody practicing, training, and preparing to be better and to beat you.

Your “competition” is preparing TODAY!

Many times that thought was a motivating factor during my practice times.  Knowing that somebody else, that I may or may not know existed, was shooting hundreds of shots per day, somebody else was fielding hundreds of ground balls, or running laps to condition their body,  helped me press through when I didn’t feel like it.

Although I do not participate competitively like that anymore, I do have dreams and goals for my family, my business, and even my blog.  So when I don’t feel like writing, in the back of my mind I know somebody else is typing away and creating the content that may attract my potential readers.

On a more personal note, when I don’t regularly practice spending time and teaching my children, then as they get older the competition of outside influences such as technology, their peers, entertainment, or TV/media will win at occupying their time and serve as their teacher/primary influence.  I want to limit that as much as possible, and I know they are all preparing today (think of the millions of dollars spent on technology and advertising).

I am not sure what, or who, is competing against you in your career, family, or the other important things in your life, but you best believe your competition is preparing today!  Competition you may not even know exists.  I encourage you to prepare so you can compete at your highest level and give yourself the best shot at winning.

Question:  In what ways can you better prepare yourself to be successful in what you are doing in your career right now?