“Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.”
John Wooden
John Wooden was a legendary basketball player and coach who inspired and counseled many individuals and teams to victory. When I came across eight principles from his book Wooden that he used to guide his many successful players over the years, I knew they offered wisdom we could all apply on our writing journey:
1. Fear no opponent. Respect every opponent.
2. Remember, it’s the perfection of the smallest details that makes big things happen.
3. Keep in mind that hustle makes up for many a mistake.
4. Be more interested in character than reputation.
5. Be quick, but don’t hurry.
6. Understand that the harder you work, the more luck you will have.
7. Know that valid self-analysis is crucial for improvement.
8. Remember that there is no substitute for hard work and careful planning. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.
Here’s an idea: Why not take one of these principles and use it as a weekly touchstone for your writing? You can take them in order or mix them up and pick one each day that really speaks to you. Write on!
