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Tennis techniques improved my entrepreneurial skills

I always loved watching tennis matches, since Pete Sampras’ and Andre Agassi’s era. Yes, I’m getting old :) Even at club level, I used to watch some matches. I was a “lurker”.

Been a tennis fan, led me to the curiosity of how it would be on court. Playing rather than observing from the outside. Learn by doing. The feelings of hitting the ball. Then, I found a tennis court and an instructor. I didn’t want to be a “lurker” anymore.

My key takeaways

  • Consistency is key
  • Learn the fundamentals first
  • I love challenges
  • Constant improvement

First lesson

Excited to be on court!

Starting with some basic techniques:
How to hold the racquet
Feet position
Importance of bending the knees
How to swing the racquet
Body position
...

In my thoughts, I was: “Hmmm, honestly, I’d like to hit some balls, enough with these blah blah blah. I’ve been watching for x years, I know what to do”.

Just hit the balls

“Ok Leo, let’s start. I will release the balls on your side and you hit them to the other side”. Easy, right? “But don’t forget to bend your knees. Also your racquet position. And keep your eyes on the ball. Also point the ball with the other hand. And blah blah blah”.

Results? Balls flying. To the other courts. Over the fence. Yellow balls everywhere. Way harder than I imagined. How am I feeling? Terrible? Never going back to the court?

No, I’m already addicted to it

It must be the challenge of hitting the balls. The desire to make it right.

I have a lot to learn. This is only the beginning. The learning curve is long, but it will pay off. So, I gradually made improvements. Adding one skill at a time. Being persistent.

I had lessons for more than 1 year

I paid attention to every session. After those sessions, I used to play with friends. Applying what I learned. Not focusing on winning the matches at first, but improving my game.

Now, the basic fundamentals come automatic. I don’t need to think about them when playing.

Repetition is key

Ps.: I’m not any good at tennis. But a regular, low-level weekend player. Always happy to share the court.

So, why do I like playing it?

  • The friendship
  • The challenge of improving my game
  • Exercising makes me more creative
  • Competition

Do you see a parallel with your entrepreneurial journey?


If you liked this reading, I’m also active on Twitter. I sent this text in my newsletter, issue 11

  1. 1

    What an inspiring journey into the world of tennis! Your transition from a spectator to an active player is commendable. It's fascinating how the initial excitement turned into a realization of the challenges on the court. The emphasis on fundamentals, consistency, and gradual improvement truly resonates not just in sports but also in various aspects of life, including entrepreneurship. The parallels drawn between your tennis journey and entrepreneurial endeavors highlight the importance of persistence, continuous learning, and the joy found in the process. Wishing you continued enjoyment on the court and success in both your tennis and entrepreneurial pursuits! 🎾🚀 #TennisPassion #EntrepreneurialSpirit

  2. 1

    I must suggest to take awesome tennis rackets
    Such an awesome variety of rackets are present here.

  3. 1

    Great analogy. I am a tennis player myself. I started at the age of 4 or 5 (can't remember exactly) and up until now, tennis is one of my favourite sports.

    But there are two types of players:

    The ones that "play" while training and the ones that "train" while training. As a tennis player yourself I hope that you know what I mean. Just shooting the ball around (so basically doing what you already can) makes fun. However you won't stand any chance when playing against the ones that are actually training.

    If you want to find out more analogies towards starting a business, I'd highly recommend you going to the gym. It's all about tenacity and discipline to stand through the last reps.

    Anyways, if you are ever in Germany, feel free to let me know so that we can hit the courts! Your story about selling your B2B business really inspired me and I'd love to hear more about it as I'm currently starting to build one my own.

    Cheers,

    Jorim

    1. 1

      Hi Jorim. I'm in London, just reach me out and we can have a go. I'll not be any close to your level, as I started on my 20s and not playing regularly.

      I'm glad my story inspired you. The idea was to raise awareness of possible problems during the journey. I also wrote about pricing, 10 months building a product....happy to have your thoughts

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