What’s next? This word has popped up several times in reading and reflecting so I thought this week would be a great opportunity to dive into the word next.

I recently finished the book Toughness by Jay Bilas (thanks to Tony Chapman for letting me borrow it). One of the chapters that stood out the most was titled “Next Play”. In fact, according to Bilas, this was one of the concepts that stuck out to him while playing under Coach K at Duke. Although both Coach K and Bilas can’t pinpoint the exact moment when the concept of “Next Play” came about it’s been ingrained into everything they do. Jay Bilas says, “‘Next play’ is really prompt to focus players on the present, rather than dwelling upon what just happened. It’s a prompt to concentrate on what’s truly important — the next play in the game.” I think this can be applied to our everyday. When life knocks us down. Move on to the next play.

For me this hit home. As a basketball player, this probably was my biggest struggle. Letting go of the mistake I made. A bad pass or a missed three. It was tough to shake it sometimes. I eventually got over it but I wish I would have been taught this method of thinking and mental toughness.

Is there something you’re struggling with that you’re having trouble letting go of right now in your life? I hope this concept helps. You got this. Next play.

I’m also reminded of a blog post I wrote back in January 2019 titled “what are you doing next?” — Over the years I’ve interacted and have had conversations with 100s of high school students and many of the seniors I would always ask “where are you going to college?” — A conversation with Tim Huls and Mike Smith on a podcast changed my perspective as we discussed how important it is to ask students what kind of life they want to live instead of what kind of career they want. That’s when I realized I need to stop asking kids where they are going to college because that might not be the path they have selected but instead asking them what are you doing next. When I started asking that question instead many students still defaulted to where they were going to college but some didn’t. The question isn’t just for high school students either.

So my question to you this week is, “what are you doing next?”.

Have a great week everyone!

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