While many successful athletes possess natural talent, they are aware that this can only take them so far. Athletes learn, through practice and experience, that there is an x-factor that separates good athletes from great athletes: Work ethic. Athletes that possess this x-factor are fueled by their desire to achieve and desire to gain the greatest reward of victory.

The importance of a strong work ethic, also known as diligence, cannot be overemphasized. The effort you put into a situation directly affects the outcome, including the success you will achieve. Diligence will give you the physical and emotional strength to edge out your competitors come game time. 

Work ethic is intrinsic, meaning that it comes from within, and is driven by your desire to achieve and your passion to pursue personal perfection. Like any other skill, diligence can be practiced and improved upon. Exceptional athletes understand that games are won during training. In other words, the amount of effort you apply during practice dictates the outcome of competition. Most games last between one and two hours, giving you a brief window of opportunity to achieve. It is therefore essential to work tirelessly outside of games in order to prepare properly. Players who consistently demonstrate hard work, utilizing every ounce of their physical and emotional endurance, are the most likely to succeed when it matters most during competition.  Work ethic, just like any other skill, can be improved through practice.

Guidelines to Developing a Solid Work Ethic:

• Practicing to Practice. Don't discuss other aspects of your life during practice; leave your issues at home and focus entirely on improving your game
• Deliver 100% effort 100% of the time. One practice can change your entire game, so don't slack off and miss an opportunity to improve
• Maintain motivation for practice by keeping reminders. Whether this is a trophy, a poster of your favorite player, or an item from the college of your dreams, use a relic as motivation
• The Five S's: Stamina, Speed, Strength, Skill and Spirit.

The Reward

Though working hard does not ensure victory, it drastically increases your chances of winning games and accomplishing your athletic goals. If you are working hard only to win you are under estimating the rewards of diligence. Effort will improve your performance and enhance your character in all areas of your life. When you have a solid work ethic in athletics, it will be easier to be meticulous with your academics and vice-versa. Later in life, you will be able to draw from your practiced diligence when you apply for and maintain a job. Likewise, laziness will penetrate all areas of your life if you act passively. You will become accustomed to applying little effort and opportunities will pass you by.

Work ethic is contagious. Displaying steady working habits will catapult you to a position of leadership on your team. Your effort will inspire others to give their all, and your team will improve as a whole, becoming a force capable of contending with the best. Your ability to win will increase and you will know the feeling of pride and victory.