I was in Connecticut last week (that's between New York and Boston for those of you who dropped Geography)
American people are nice to know. Ok they don't quietly go about their business, but they are warm and friendly, and remarkly laid back (unless the muffins are running out).
I did a bit of 'people watching' at Newark airport, as one does with 4 hours to kill! I couldn't help noticing that Americans in general look tall because they walk tall (they are even taller with their lids on).
Have you ever notice how we react on the tennis court when things are going badly? Our shoulders hunch up, our head drops, we stop breathing (yeah!), and we tut and sigh. Personally I have been known to slam balls all over the shop, to the danger of everyone in the vicinity.
Next time round, try standing tall with your head high and your shoulders back. You will feel an instant confidence boost. Your opponent will pick up on this - and realise you're not down and out!
Have a nice day (oops!)
Saturday, 23 February 2008
Sunday, 3 February 2008
Havoc and Chaos
Have you noticed how cheerful the 'news' is these days. After the first five minutes, you could be suicidal!
Even the weather forecasters have jumped on the 'fear and alarm' bandwagon. "Severe weather warnings" are dished out right left and centre, and the words 'havoc' and 'chaos' have become commonplace.
Despite threats of impending doom, I drove 80 miles north on Friday to visit my mum. There was not a snowflake in sight and no sign of the 'gridlock' which was meant to be widespread across Scotland. When I returned to Edinburgh, I was relieved that the city was still standing, following the threat of terrorist attack which was 'headlined' during the week.
So what's all this to do with tennis?
Well not a lot I guess. Having said that, unless you are playing for money, there is little point in slashing your wrists if you find yourself a set and 4 - 0 down. You would be better just to enjoy yourself and look forward to a beer in the clubhouse.
Paradoxically, with this approach, you might find that you will start winning games again!!
Footnote:
As all drivers will have noticed, this winter weather has caused further trauma to Edinburgh's roads. The pot holes are the size of the Grand Canyon and the speed bumps (now an epidemic) are like the Himalayas. Massive roadworks have taken over the city and we've been invaded by temporary traffic lights.
We're all doomed!
Even the weather forecasters have jumped on the 'fear and alarm' bandwagon. "Severe weather warnings" are dished out right left and centre, and the words 'havoc' and 'chaos' have become commonplace.
Despite threats of impending doom, I drove 80 miles north on Friday to visit my mum. There was not a snowflake in sight and no sign of the 'gridlock' which was meant to be widespread across Scotland. When I returned to Edinburgh, I was relieved that the city was still standing, following the threat of terrorist attack which was 'headlined' during the week.
So what's all this to do with tennis?
Well not a lot I guess. Having said that, unless you are playing for money, there is little point in slashing your wrists if you find yourself a set and 4 - 0 down. You would be better just to enjoy yourself and look forward to a beer in the clubhouse.
Paradoxically, with this approach, you might find that you will start winning games again!!
Footnote:
As all drivers will have noticed, this winter weather has caused further trauma to Edinburgh's roads. The pot holes are the size of the Grand Canyon and the speed bumps (now an epidemic) are like the Himalayas. Massive roadworks have taken over the city and we've been invaded by temporary traffic lights.
We're all doomed!
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