Friday, June 14, 2024

Tennis Speech of the Day: Lessons in Tennis & Life - 2024 Commencement Address by Roger Federer at Dartmouth College


         Video (Apx. 25 mins.) Courtesy: Dartmouth College

Commencement Address by Roger Federer
Dartmouth College 2024
June 09, 20024

Awarded Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters


Roger Federer's address is a masterclass on emotional intelligence and lessons in life from one of tennis' legendary players. 


Summary

1. Effortless is a myth. (It's really about hard work.)
2.
It's only a point. (Keep moving forward to the next point, the next task, the next objective.)
3.
Life is bigger than the court. (Life is larger than any one topic or activity.)


1. Effortless is a myth.

Things might only appear "effortless". Actually, hard work, and smart work, is the foundation of confidence and success in tennis and life. Talent is not simply a "gift". It's also about grit, discipline, patience, trust in yourself and the method, loving the process and managing your life. 

2. 
It's only a point.
Any single point is just a point. Keep moving forward to the next point, the next task, the next objective. Federer played 1,526 professional matches. But he only won 54% of the points in those matches! Moral of the story: even the top professionals miss points - and a lot of them. Thus, learn not to dwell on a missed point. Teach yourself to think: it's only a point. The same in life. Keep moving ahead. This is how to overcome self-doubt and negativity - fully commit to the next point with intensity, focus and clarity. 


3. Life is bigger than the court.

Never forget that life itself is larger and more consequential than any one topic or activity. Family, friends, teammates, coaches, relationships, travel, experiences, vacations, relaxation, nature and much more form a meaningful and rewarding life. "Life is a team sport. . . your success depends on your team, your coaches, your teammates, even your rivals. All these help . . . to make who you are." 

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