“There may be people that have more talent than you, but there's no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do."
- Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter, one of baseball's most celebrated shortstops, exemplified the power of preparation with his meticulous game-day rituals and routines.
Every game day followed a strict schedule. He'd go to Starbucks before arriving at the field every day. He would eat the same pre-game meal. He'd perform the same warm-up exercises. He'd always be on time. He made a rule to never engage in gossip. Consistency became the formula for his Hall of Fame career.
Jeter understood that every game, every at-bat, and every play was an opportunity to excel, and he prepared accordingly. His routines, from physical warm-ups to mental preparation, were about creating a sense of readiness and confidence.
These rituals helped him focus, reduce anxiety, and perform at his best. For athletes and individuals in any field, preparation is key to success. It's about doing the work beforehand so you're ready to shine when it's game time.
Today, think about your own "game day" — whether it's a meeting, a project, or any task requiring your best effort.
Consider how you can adopt a Jeter-like approach to preparation, ensuring you're as ready as possible to perform at your best.
Game Day Rituals: The Power of Preparation