Taking calculated risks is necessary for success in sports. Holding back and playing it safe are hardly ever the best way to compete. Giving 100 percent effort and risking it all to winâthose are the attributes of a champion.
Taking calculated risks is necessary for success in sports. Holding back and playing it safe are hardly ever the best way to compete. Giving 100 percent effort and risking it all to win—those are the attributes of a champion.
Arnold Palmer, an 81-year-old golfer, personifies these ideals. The game of golf is often described as more of a mental than a physical challenge, and Palmer's positive go-for-broke attitude was a key to his success.
Arnie attracted an Army of spectators because he played the game aggressively and with flair. "The King" won 62 PGA Tour tournaments, 10 Champions Tour tournaments and seven Major Championships.
What made Palmer unique was his mindset. He never second-guessed himself until the round was over. Attacking golf courses, he seemed relaxed and aggressive at the same time. He was never afraid to shoot straight for the pin, no matter how difficult its placement.
Shoot first and think later? It worked for Arnie, but only because of the countless hours he devoted to practicing and training on tournament courses before competition began.
Take your mindset from a guy who has a drink named after him. Have a positive state of mind, be willing to take risks, work hard in practice and be prepared for every possible outcome. You'll need all that to be successful.