Training Camp: What the Best Do Better Than Everyone Else

Chapter 36. Leave a Legacy

"In your striving to be the best, then, you must ask not what your greatness means to you, but what impact does it make on others? The success you create now is temporary, but the legacy you leave is eternal. Thinking about this legacy fuels you with a bigger purpose.

"That's why you told me making the team was good, but being the best is a life mission," Martin said. It was all becoming clear.

"Exactly," Coach responded. "You know, every year I tell my guys. Don't focus on the contract and the money. The best are driven by something bigger. It can't be about the contract. That's not what drives the best to be the best. The best are driven by a bigger purpose, and this purpose fuels them. Now, I can't tell someone what their purpose is, but I can tell them that the best are most energized when they are using their gifts and talents for a purpose beyond themselves. You can see it in their eyes and in their passion and enthusiasm for the game and the way they play on the field and carry themselves off it. Money doesn't create that kind of energy, but purpose does. Sure, money might make you perform well in the short term, but it won't inspire you to be the best and strive for greatness over the long term. The best are driven by much, much more. Average players are motivated by the paycheck. The great ones are inspired to leave a legacy. And this doesn't apply ...