In today's world, it seems that there is an abundance of criticism and a scarcity of praise. My post about Deion Sanders prompted this blog today. Here are my thoughts and experiences considering the athletes I work with:
Young athletes and students, in particular, bear the brunt of this imbalance as they are bombarded daily with social media comparisons and unrealistic expectations. It's disheartening to witness the toll it takes on their self-esteem and mental well-being. I personally see this first hand with the elite athletes I work with.
To those who claim that this generation is weak…..I challenge you to reconsider. You have never experienced the relentless pressure of living as a youth or teenager in a social media-ridden, web-induced, brainwashing world. It's easy to judge from the sidelines, but it takes strength and empathy to understand the challenges they face.
Instead of tearing these kids down, let's lift them up. Let's offer words of encouragement, support, and genuine praise. It's not a weakness to acknowledge someone's efforts and achievements; it's a strength. By fostering a culture of positivity and appreciation, we can help young individuals thrive and reach their full potential. I can promise you that you WILL get more from them with praise than criticism. And I’m not saying they don’t need discipline. Of course athletes do but there has to be that balance of discipline, belief and praise. The good ones know that balance creates the most successful, happiest players.
So, next time you encounter a young athlete or student, remember the power of your words. Choose to be a source of inspiration rather than another voice of criticism. Together, we can create a world where praise outweighs judgment, and where the next generation can flourish.
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