PRO BLOG: DOJO MINDSET | May 19, 2025
By: Josh Paul
THE DISTRACTION OF WINNING
When the game is on the line, the ball seems to find you. Whether you’re pitching, hitting, or fielding, we’ve all been there. It all comes down to you. What’s on your mind?
Are you pumped to win the game? To be the hero and get a shower of bubble gum and sunflower seeds from your teammates? To have your dad nod his approval from the bleachers? To have this moment immortalized on Instagram, reposted by your coach, and maybe even get a DM from the girl you like?
Are you scared you’ll lose the game? To face the long walk back to a dugout full of disappointed teammates? To see your dad look down and shake his head, dreading the car ride home? To have this moment immortalized on Instagram, reposted with laughing emojis, and then ghosted by the girl you like?
What’s the difference between these two thoughts? Nothing. But it’s always better to be “positive,” right? That’s irrelevant. Our hopes and fears are just made-up stories that take us out of the moment. And if you’re not here right now, your eye isn’t on the ball.
Whether you hope to win or fear losing, you’re living in a fantasy, not reality. Both are stories we tell ourselves about what might happen. They’re not real, and neither will help you win the game. The only reality is your job in this moment.
It’s simple.
What’s your only job as a hitter? Get a good pitch and hit it hard.
What’s your only job as a pitcher? Hit the mitt with this pitch.
What’s your only job as a fielder? Catch the ball and make an accurate throw.
There’s nothing else you can do. No single player has ever won or lost a game. And if you’re focused on winning or losing, you’re distracted from doing that job.
So, what are you so excited about?
What are you so worried about?
Enjoying the Dojo Mindsets? You can collaborate more with Josh Paul at his website The Lobo Dojo