The #1 thing I wish I understood sooner

What’s up club! 

Today I want to share something that really hits home with me:

Putting first things first. 

Our whole life, we are conditioned to care about what people think about us, especially if they can offer something that we value. For example: When you are in school, you care about what your teacher thinks because she can pass or fail you.

You care about what your coach thinks in high school because he can determine if you play at the next level or not.

And sometimes we are so worried about what someone thinks of us that we can’t even focus on what we need to do to improve! It’s wild how impactful this negative mindset can be.

When I first entered the NBA, everyone had the fancy duffle bags, with the Gucci logo everywhere and all this high end gear. For a second, I told myself I needed all that because, “hey I'm an NBA player and I want everyone to know”. 

I was trying to find approval from my peers so I could feel like I was in the “cool” group of NBA players.

Luckily, I was reminded: 

Focus on what really matters. Put first things first. 

For me, what really matters is my: 

• faith

• family

• real friends

• work that serves others

1. Faith

It's the idea that you understand that the world doesn’t revolve around you. You can see the world from a bird's-eye view and you trust in something more than yourself.

2. Family

These are the closest people around you. There’s so much I learn out on the court, but the biggest lessons always start in the home. 

3. Real Friends

These guys are who you care about and who will tell you the truth even if it hurts. They never want anything in return. You may not talk to them all the time, but it’s genuine conversations about life and improvement, not gossip.

4. Work that serves others

It’s living a life for others. Being useful. Putting other’s needs before your own. Because at the end of the day, we’re all trying to get a little bit better. 

Once you focus on what matters, you don’t care how others think about you because you’re in a solid place and your foundation is set.

So how do we apply this to basketball?

You’ll hear so many voices during your basketball career.

• Teammates

• Coaches 

• Scouts 

• Opponents 

• Fans

• Haters

It’s mentally LOUD. 

But when you’re in the right spot, when your priorities are in the right spot, you can finally stop caring what other people think. I say this as an 8-year professional player who has had to constantly work on this. Some days are better than others, but the key is to just do a little bit every day. 

Guys, I’m telling you, it all comes back to consistency.

The First Things First Challenge

This week, I challenge you to write down YOUR 4 first things. The priorities that actually matter to you. Then find ONE thing you're currently doing just for approval or to 'look the part' that's pulling focus from those priorities. And if you’re willing, share one of your priorities in the comments or reply to this newsletter. I read every response!

Keep it up, play hard and chat soon!

Faith + Consistency
Elijah

P.S. 
I love being a dad. Best thing in the world.