As we have discussed in previous blogs, talent is based on the things that you do well, while habits center on what you do repeatedly well without thought. Skills are things that you do well repeatedly without thought while under stress.
August through October is the Assessment Phase of the development process for my hitters. During this time, we like to try new things, which helps us discover what works and what does not. When we hit November through January, we start to build habits and strength based on what works.
My Diamond Directors clients know there are seven parts of the swing and that it takes 3,000 reps to build a habit. That’s 21,000 reps
- Stance/Load
- Timing
- Tempo
- Tracking
- Approach
- Contact
- Extension/Finish
As you can see, developing a habit requires you to be committed and disciplined.
Here are the Top 3 things that keep hitters from developing the habits required to become/maintain success as a hitter. I call them The Habit Inhibitors.
- Procrastination
- Realization
- Justification
Procrastination
Procrastination means to delay something. When I talk to hitters during the Assessment Phase, they tell me their dreams with clarity to the point where I begin to see them come true. Oftentimes, because they lack commitment and discipline, they procrastinate and hope that success just happens.
Realization
Hitters who procrastinate because they lack commitment and discipline need to know it sooner rather than later. Why? Because you can improve in these two areas with good coaching, which will help you become an improved hitter.
Commitment is a promise you make to yourself, for yourself. Discipline is doing the things that you need to do, but that you do not want to do.
Vision without current reality is pointless.
Justification
When you get to the point you begin to justify your procrastination, you become a blamer and complainer. It is your teammates fault you are not playing well. It is the coach’s fault that you have not received a scholarship.
The good news is that I can help you with my proven development system. Diamond Directors has been providing the blueprint of success for diamond sports athletes since 1998. Let us assess your swing in our next Hitting Combine.
Remember: Intelligence tops being smart.
For more information, visit www.diamonddirectors.com today. Also, check out our Digital Magazine.
C.J. Stewart has built a reputation as one of the leading professional hitting instructors in the country. He is a former professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization and has also served as an area scout for the Cincinnati Reds. As founder and CEO of Diamond Directors Player Development, C.J. has more than 12 years of player development experience and has built an impressive list of clients, including some of the top young prospects in baseball today. If your desire is to change your game for the better, C.J. Stewart has a proven system of development and track record of success that can work for you.
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