The Story We Tell Ourselves

Before every match, there’s a story forming in our minds.

Sometimes, it’s a story that drains our energy, clouds our focus, and weakens our resolve.
It’s a story of fear, of doubt, of comparison.
But that is not the story we must carry onto the court.

If we are to tell any story, let it be one that inspires.
Let it be one that reminds us of our courage, our growth, and our readiness to face the challenge.
Because we do not control our opponent’s level, their attitude, or their mindset.
We only control what is ours—
Our effort.
Our mindset.
Our attitude.
And that is enough.

In every point, we are given a choice:
To show up or to retreat.
To give our best or to withhold it.
To believe in who we are becoming or to cling to past mistakes.

Yes, we will make errors.
Yes, we will make poor decisions.
But these are not signs of failure—
They are doors to learning.
We can feel the weight of disappointment, briefly—
but then we must rise.
Because growth does not come from self-judgment;
it comes from self-respect and reflection.

Let the story you tell be one of resilience,
one of a player who learns, adapts, and never stops showing up.
Not because it’s easy—
but because it’s worth it.

The best version of you is not the one who never fails—
it’s the one who never gives up.