Goals (Player's Handbook Chapter)

“A goal not written down is just a wish.”
~Author Unknown

If we were to run on to the floor for our season opener and find that the baskets were gone, I'm quite sure we wouldn't even attempt to play the game. We know without goals we cannot score. The same is true for us individually and as a team. We need to set goals.

As an individual, you must set short-term and long-term goals. These short-term goals should be easily attainable, because your long-term success is the result of small victories you accumulate every day. They add up and help you to form good habits. For example, if one of your goals this year is to set the school rebounding record, you'll need to establish a goal of so many rebounds per game. Furthermore, you'll also need to set specific practice goals and goals in the weight room (i.e. blocking out your man on every shot, pursuing every missed shot, perfect weight room attendance, etc). When you accomplish these daily successes, day in and day out, eventually you'll develop very positive habits pertaining to your long-term goals. One day, you just might be the rebound record holder. Just make sure your personal goals build up the team, and do not tear it down. Always remember: This team is not about you!

As a team, we too need to establish goals. Rick Pitino summed it up best when he said dreams are where we want to end up and goals are how we get there. If our dream is to win the state championship, then we need to build within us championship principles. A wise teacher once said your thoughts overflow into action…action develops habits…habits produce character…and your character reveals your destiny. Therefore, if it is our destiny to play at the championship level, we must govern our thoughts and training habits accordingly.

People are divided into three groups: 1) Those that make things happen. These people dream, set goals and work hard to attain their goals. 2) Those who watch things happen. Often these people are dreamers, but fail to make a plan and stick to it. 3) And those who wonder what happened. Obviously, these people lack the industriousness to even dream. Which one are you?