Knowing Your Limits
Good strategy is also based on strengths. Most players have ready answers
when asked about their strong points, but sometimes these are neither
realistic nor accurate. It’s easy to think you’re good at something just
because you feel good about it. That doesn’t always mean you really have
the skill. The best way to get clear about your strengths is to ask your
peers. They may not tell you the truth about your weaknesses, but most
people will gladly acknowledge the areas in which you shine. The players
to ask are the ones that you most often compete against. If you play in a
weekly local tournament, for example, the other regulars may know your
game better than you do. Just ask over a cup of coffee when you’re in a
friendly conversation between matches or when you’re hanging around
after the event. “I’m looking to get an objective evaluation of my game.
Can I ask you a couple of questions?” Start the conversation with
questions, but let them talk if they get on a roll. Your value will come from
listening.
Whenever you win a match with a strong player, you are in an ideal
position to examine your game in terms of strength. What you did to win
will be clear at those moments and looking at it closely will reinforce it. Sit
down with a sheet of paper and evaluate your performance by asking the
following questions. “What did I do in that match that allowed me to win?
What were the skills that held up for me under pressure? When did the
match turn in my favor?” If you have a copy of The Pro Book, run through
the entire Match Review section and answer whatever questions are
relevant.
Good Luck & Good Shootin’!