on playing tennis
I’m totally addicted to trying to improve at tennis. I'm hooked to watching the players compete at the highest level or shit even youtube videos that might not even help me.
I love getting better. Watching more serves go in, more consistent contact on my forehand, and improving my footwork all without the amount of deliberate practice that I know can take my game to the next level
Sports give you this real, tangible feedback loop that’s hard to find anywhere else. You work on the right things the right way, you get better.
Not quite a high, but there's this constant battle of fatigue and focus that's so unique to tennis. You feel it when the going gets tough mostly in your chest, legs, and a bit in your brain. There's an edge that's available for those who want it. Tennis is the sport that rewards the player who is using their head and not letting their head get in the way. The person who is in better shape than their opponent. There's often a moment where both players are gassed and whoever is tougher in a moment, often one or two points is gonna get the W. Unlike any other sport it's a way to prove that your tougher, more disciplined, and better trained. I love that aspect of the sport. It's mano a mano and no one can save you.
I also just love what tennis has given me. New friends, improved relationships with current friends, the cardiovascular fitness, and the time with my wife and family. It's also a reminder of how far deliberate practice can take you and how to not take yourself too seriously.