Mistakes: Your Key to Winning

Mistakes are often seen as setbacks, failures, or embarrassments, but for those with a winning mindset, they are stepping stones to success. They are lessons wrapped in challenges, teaching us what doesn’t work and pushing us closer to what does.

Mistakes are an inevitable part of life, especially when striving for greatness, and learning to recognize, move past, and grow from them is crucial to building a winning mindset. Let’s explore how to turn mistakes—both chronic and one-time—into powerful tools for improvement.

Recognizing Mistakes, Especially Chronic Ones

The first step to learning from mistakes is recognizing them. This might sound simple, but it can be surprisingly difficult, especially when dealing with habitual or chronic errors. These are the mistakes we make repeatedly, often without realizing it, because they are tied to ingrained patterns of thought or behavior.

Spotting Chronic Mistakes

  • Self-Reflection: Take time to regularly reflect on your actions, decisions, and results. Journaling or maintaining a simple log of daily experiences can help you identify patterns of behavior that lead to repeated errors.
  • Feedback from Others: Sometimes, chronic mistakes are easier to spot when others point them out. Surround yourself with people who aren’t afraid to offer constructive criticism and value their input.
  • Objective Analysis: Look at your performance metrics. In basketball, for example, a coach might track turnovers or missed opportunities to identify recurring problems.

The Emotional Blind Spot

One reason mistakes go unnoticed is that we tend to justify them emotionally. We might blame circumstances, other people, or bad luck instead of admitting our own role in the outcome. A winning mindset requires humility—the ability to set aside ego and take full ownership of our actions.

Ask yourself:

  • What am I consistently doing that’s not working?
  • If I were advising someone else, what would I tell them about this behavior?
  • How can I approach this differently?

By recognizing your mistakes—especially the chronic ones—you take the first critical step in turning them into growth opportunities.

Moving Past Mistakes:
Overcoming the “Sucked-In Effect“

It’s easy to get sucked into mistakes, letting them define you or derail your progress. Dwelling on them leads to fear, doubt, and hesitation, which can prevent you from taking the next step. A winning mindset involves acknowledging mistakes without letting them consume you.

1. Acknowledge The Mistake, Don’t Avoid It

When a mistake happens, acknowledge it immediately. Avoiding or ignoring it only magnifies its impact. Own it, name it, and accept it as part of the process.

Mindfulness is a key part of recognizing and acknowledging a mistake. Here is an article if you want to learn more about how Mindfulness is related to Mistakes.

Key Mindset Shift:
Mistakes are not the opposite of success…
they are part of the journey toward Success.

2. Avoid Overthinking

Dwelling on a mistake can spiral into overthinking, which hinders progress. Instead of ruminating, ask:

  • What can I learn from this?
  • What will I do differently next time?

Focus on solutions, not problems. For example, if you miss a critical free throw in a basketball game, dwelling on it won’t change the outcome. Instead, commit to extra practice and visualization techniques to improve next time.

3. Use Mistakes as Motivation

Instead of letting a mistake discourage you, let it fire you up. Channel the frustration into action. Many athletes and successful individuals have used their greatest setbacks as fuel to prove themselves.

4. Create a Reset Ritual

Develop a ritual to help you move past mistakes quickly. This might include deep breathing, repeating a mantra, or taking a moment to visualize success. For example, some basketball players tap their chest and point upward as a way of saying, “That’s on me, and I’m moving forward.” There is a softball team that uses the gesture simulating the flushing of a toilet as a way to show that they are letting go of their mistake and sending it down the drain.

Incorporating these practices into your life, or something similar of your own design, ensures that mistakes are temporary detours, not dead ends. Learn from them and let them go.

Growing from Mistakes

Once you’ve recognized and moved past your mistakes, the final and most important step is to grow from them. Growth involves turning every error into a learning opportunity and using it to improve your future performance.

1. Learn the Lesson

Every mistake carries a lesson, but you have to look for it. Ask yourself:

  • What went wrong?
  • Why did it happen?
  • What could I have done differently?
  • How can I prevent this in the future?

Be specific. For example, if your basketball team lost a game because of poor communication on defense, analyze the breakdown and implement drills to improve teamwork.

2. Embrace Feedback

Feedback is a gift, even when it’s hard to hear. Seek out coaches, mentors, or teammates who can provide insights into your mistakes and how to address them. The more open you are to feedback, the faster you’ll grow.

3. Develop New Habits

Chronic mistakes often stem from bad habits. To grow, you must replace these with better habits. Bad habits don’t go away by themselves. If you try to stop, a “vacuum” is created and something worse might slide in to replace the bad habit. Create a new habit that pushes the old out for good.

  • Start small: Focus on one habit at a time.
  • Be consistent: Change happens through repetition. As NBA player Chris Paul says, “Stack the reps“.
  • Track progress: Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.

For example, if you habitually rush your shots, create a pre-shot routine to slow yourself down and improve accuracy. Or work on your shot so that you can get it off more quickly… and comfortably with confidence.

4. Stay Positive

Growth requires a positive mindset. Be kind to yourself. Mistakes don’t define you; how you respond to them does. Focus on your progress and remember that setbacks are temporary.

Mental Growth Example:
Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, famously said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times, I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”

Mistakes / Team Dynamics

Mistakes don’t just happen individually; they happen within teams. A winning mindset involves creating a culture where mistakes are seen as opportunities for collective growth rather than reasons for blame. Everyone contributes to the team… and everyone makes mistakes at some point. It is part of the process and the stronger teams understand how to deal with mistakes productively.

Foster Open Communication

Encourage team members to admit mistakes without fear of judgment. This builds trust and ensures that mistakes are addressed, not hidden.

Collaborative Problem-Solving

When a mistake affects the team, involve everyone in finding solutions. For example, if a basketball team struggles with turnovers, brainstorm strategies together to reduce them.

Celebrate Growth

Recognize and celebrate when a teammate learns from a mistake and improves. This reinforces the idea that mistakes are part of the journey to success.

The Winning Mindset & Mistakes

Coach Wheeler
Coach Wheeler helps you Build a Winning Mindset

I have made plenty of mistakes. (Check out the following article if you don’t believe me.) I firmly believe that mistakes are not failures; they are opportunities. They provide clarity on what doesn’t work and pave the way for what does.

By recognizing mistakes—especially habitual ones—you bring them into the light, where they can be addressed. By moving past them quickly, you prevent them from holding you back. And by growing from them, you transform setbacks into stepping stones toward success.

Key Takeaways as part of a Winning Mindset:

  1. Recognize mistakes: Own your actions and identify patterns.
  2. Move past mistakes: Avoid the trap of overthinking or dwelling on errors.
  3. Grow from mistakes: Use every failure as an opportunity to improve.
  4. Foster a growth culture: In teams, create an environment where mistakes are learning tools, not sources of blame.

Mistakes are not the enemy. They are your coach, your teacher, and sometimes your greatest ally in building a winning mindset. Next time you make a mistake, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, smile, reset, and remember: every mistake is another step toward becoming a winner.

Chris Paul’s Success Mindset

Put in the Reps: How to Remove Doubt and Build a Winning Mindset

If you’re serious about success—on the court, in your career, or in life—you’ve got to watch this video from Chris Paul. In it, he delivers simple yet powerful advice that resonates far beyond basketball:

  • “Reps remove doubt.”
  • “Keep stacking days.”
  • “Everything you want is on the other side of hard.”

For those of you reading this and striving to achieve greatness, this isn’t just basketball advice; this is life advice. As a coach, I’ve seen firsthand the difference these ideas make—not just in the game but in how players (and people) approach challenges, obstacles, and opportunities.

Let’s break these ideas down and see how you can apply them to develop your own winning mindset.

Reps Remove Doubt

When I hear Chris Paul say, “Reps remove doubt,” it immediately takes me back to the practice court. I’ve seen so many players struggle with self-confidence in high-pressure situations. The truth is, doubt creeps in when you’re not prepared. And the only way to prepare? Reps.

Think about this: Have you ever hesitated in a game—second-guessed your shot, overthought a pass, or doubted your ability to defend? That hesitation comes from uncertainty. Uncertainty comes from a lack of preparation. Repetition is the antidote.

Why Reps Matter

Repetition builds muscle memory. It makes your actions automatic. When you’ve taken 1,000 shots in practice, shooting in a game isn’t a question—it’s second nature. The same goes for anything in life. Whether it’s public speaking, negotiating a deal, or learning a new skill, the more you do something, the less room there is for doubt.

Practical Application:

  • Start Small, But Start Daily. Begin with 10 minutes a day focusing on a specific skill. For basketball players, it might be free throws. For others, it could be writing or practicing a presentation.
  • Track Your Reps. Keep a journal. Log every shot, every page written, every rep completed. Progress over time is what eliminates fear.

Coach Wheeler’s Challenge: Commit to putting in 100 extra reps this week for something that matters to you. It doesn’t have to be basketball; it could be anything you’re passionate about. Show yourself how preparation can quiet the voice of doubt.

Keep Stacking Days

One of my favorite lines from Chris Paul’s video is, “Keep stacking days.” Why? Because success isn’t one big, flashy moment. It’s the accumulation of small, consistent efforts over time. One good practice isn’t enough. One win doesn’t make a season. You’ve got to stack the good days, one on top of the other, until you’re standing on a foundation of effort so solid, it’s unshakable.

The Power of Consistency

I’ve worked with players who had all the talent in the world but couldn’t stay consistent. They’d give 110% effort one day and 50% the next. Here’s the harsh truth: inconsistency kills potential. A winning mindset isn’t built on bursts of effort; it’s built on showing up and doing the work every single day.

This concept applies beyond sports. If you’re building a business, improving your health, or working toward any long-term goal, you’ve got to stay consistent. Success is about the habits you form, not the goals you set.

Practical Application FOR A SUCCESS MINDSET: How to Stack Your Days

  1. Define Your Non-Negotiables. What are the three things you must do every day to improve? For an athlete, it might be shooting drills, strength training, and film review. For someone else, it could be writing, networking, and brainstorming new ideas.
  2. Set Micro Goals. Focus on getting better by just 1% every day. That’s it. Over a year, those small improvements add up to massive growth.
  3. Celebrate the Process. Stacking days isn’t glamorous, but it’s powerful. Celebrate your ability to show up, even when the results aren’t immediately visible.

Coach Wheeler’s Takeaway: Anyone can have a good day. Winners string together good days to create momentum. The more days you stack, the harder it becomes to stop your progress.

Everything You Want Is on the Other Side of Hard

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had players come to me frustrated—wanting to quit because “it’s too hard.” Whether it’s perfecting their jump shot, making it through a tough conditioning session, or staying mentally focused through adversity, I always remind them: Everything you want is on the other side of hard.

Why Hard Is Good

Struggle is part of the process of developing a Success Mindset. In fact, I would go as far as to say “struggle is necessary”. (I even wrote an article about “The Power of Struggle Time“.) The reason something is “hard” is because it’s forcing you to grow. If it were easy, everyone would do it, and it wouldn’t be worth achieving. When Chris Paul says that everything you want is on the other side of hard, he’s reminding us that the obstacles we face are the very things that prepare us for success.

SUCCESS Mindset Shift: Embrace the Hard

Instead of avoiding challenges, welcome them. When you’re faced with something hard, remind yourself: “This is where I grow. This is where I separate myself from the pack.”

Practical Application: Conquering Hard

  1. Break It Down. When faced with a big, intimidating goal, break it into smaller, more manageable steps. Focus on conquering one step at a time.
  2. Stay Mentally Strong. Use affirmations or visualizations to stay positive. Picture yourself overcoming the challenge and achieving your goal.
  3. Find Support. Surround yourself with people who push you. A coach, mentor, or teammate can make a huge difference when things get tough.

Coach Wheeler’s Take on Motivation: Hard is where greatness happens. When you feel like giving up, remember: that’s where most people stop. Push through, and you’ll find yourself in rare company—on the other side of hard.

How to Apply These Lessons to Your Life

Chris Paul’s principles—”Reps remove doubt,” “Keep stacking days,” and “Everything you want is on the other side of hard”—aren’t just motivational quotes. They’re actionable strategies for building a winning mindset. Here’s how you can start applying them today:

  1. Choose Your Reps. Identify one area where you lack confidence. Commit to consistent, deliberate practice until doubt is replaced by skill.
  2. Stack Your Days. Focus on creating a streak of consistent effort. Use a calendar, a journal, or even an app to track your progress. Build momentum, and don’t let yourself break the streak.
  3. Face the Hard Stuff. Pick one challenge you’ve been avoiding because it’s “too hard.” Tackle it head-on, and notice how your confidence grows on the other side.

Some final thoughts on a Success Mindset
from Coach Wheeler

Winning is earned.
[That should be the title of my next book.]

Whether you’re chasing championships, climbing the corporate ladder, or improving yourself in any way, the process is the same: reps, consistency, and a willingness to embrace the hard. Chris Paul’s words are a reminder of this truth.

As your coach, my advice is simple: Stop looking for shortcuts. There aren’t any. The path to success isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Start today. Put in the reps, stack your days, and face the hard. Develop a success mindset. Your future self will thank you.

The Sprint Mentality

In the Game of Life, Recognize the Race and Sprint to Win

What are your chances of winning a race if you don’t realize you’re in one? It’s a profound question, and one worth asking after watching a high school basketball game where one team seemed completely unaware they were competing. They didn’t lose because of a lack of talent but because they failed to recognize the urgency of the moment.

This isn’t just a basketball problem. It’s a life problem. Recognizing that you’re in a race and adopting a Sprint Mentality can be the difference between success and falling behind.

The Human Race: A Call to Action

Have you ever thought about why we’re called the human race? The term suggests urgency and motion. Yet, many people don’t realize they’re in the race at all. The starting gun fires, your competition takes off, and you’re left standing, unaware or unprepared. By the time you decide to move, the gap is too great.

In basketball, this looks like teams failing to transition from defense to offense with purpose. They jog up the court, pass the ball around aimlessly, and settle for poor shots. Meanwhile, their opponents sprint, attack, and score. The difference? Awareness and urgency.

Adopting a Sprint Mentality means recognizing that life’s race has started and committing to run with purpose.

Sprint Mentality: Recognizing Sprint Moments

Life, like basketball, isn’t a continuous sprint. But there are critical moments when you need to shift gears and move with everything you’ve got. In basketball, these moments often revolve around changes in possession:

  • Defensive rebounds: Are you pushing the ball upcourt immediately?
  • Steals: Are you attacking the basket before the defense can react?
  • Turnovers: Are you capitalizing on mistakes to create scoring opportunities?

In life, sprint moments might look like this:

  • Job opportunities: Being ready to seize a career-changing chance before others.
  • Personal growth challenges: Tackling a tough project or committing to a new habit with urgency.
  • Relationships: Acting quickly to express love, forgiveness, or support when it matters most.

Recognizing these moments and acting with urgency is at the heart of the Sprint Mentality.

Life Is a Relay Race

Another way to frame life is as a relay race. You’re not running alone. Whether it’s your family, coworkers, or friends, your actions affect others. The baton gets passed, and each runner’s effort impacts the team’s success.

Here’s the twist: You don’t know if you’re the first runner, the anchor, or somewhere in between. Your job is to run your leg of the race as fast and as well as you can. Jogging through your stretch doesn’t just hurt you—it hurts the team.

Adopting the Sprint Mentality means giving your all, regardless of your position. When the baton is in your hand, the race is yours to win.

How to Develop a Sprint Mentality

What separates winners from those who fall short? It’s not just talent or preparation. It’s the mindset to sprint when it matters most. Here’s how to cultivate it:

1. Practice Urgency

In your daily life, setting small, time-sensitive goals can be transformative. These goals don’t have to be monumental; even completing minor tasks within a specific timeframe helps build the habit of urgency. For instance, set a timer for tasks such as responding to emails, completing a workout, or finishing a chapter of a book. By practicing urgency in the mundane, you prepare yourself for the moments when quick action is critical.

This mindset translates into larger opportunities in life. When a significant project or opportunity arises, the habit of urgency allows you to act decisively and efficiently. You’ll no longer hesitate, waiting for perfect conditions or overanalyzing every detail. Instead, you’ll confidently take the first step, knowing that momentum often creates its own success. Practicing urgency isn’t just about speed; it’s about building trust in your ability to respond effectively when it matters most.

Here is a link to a time management / productivity resource:

2. Visualize Key Moments

Visualization is a powerful tool for developing a Sprint Mentality. Taking time to imagine yourself in key scenarios—whether it’s delivering a crucial presentation, making a game-winning shot, or nailing an important interview—can prepare your mind for success.

This process isn’t just daydreaming; it’s a focused exercise in mental rehearsal. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and walk yourself through every detail: the environment, your actions, and the outcome you desire. This practice helps your brain feel familiar with high-pressure situations before they even happen.

The more you visualize, the more confident and prepared you become. Athletes often use visualization to imagine themselves excelling under pressure, and the same principle applies to any area of life. Whether you’re facing a boardroom or a basketball court, visualization sharpens your ability to act with precision and poise when the time comes. It’s about mentally rehearsing success so that, when the moment arrives, you’re ready to sprint.

Here is a link to a video on visualization:

3. Prepare for Transitions

Transitions are inevitable, both in life and on the court. Preparing for these shifts ensures that you’re ready to respond with agility and purpose. This preparation involves conditioning—both physically and mentally.

Staying physically fit and healthy gives you the energy and stamina to handle fast-paced transitions, whether that’s chasing a loose ball or seizing a sudden career opportunity. Similarly, maintaining mental sharpness through activities like meditation, problem-solving, and lifelong learning keeps you adaptable in the face of change.

Preparation also means having a plan for the unexpected. Life’s transitions often come without warning, but being proactive can make all the difference. Develop contingency plans, practice adaptability, and remind yourself that change is an opportunity for growth. When you prepare for transitions, you’re not just reacting to the moment—you’re anticipating it, ready to sprint forward while others are still hesitating.

4. Adopt a Winner’s Mindset

Adopting a winner’s mindset means viewing every situation as an opportunity to excel. It’s about cultivating a belief that success is possible, even in challenging circumstances.

Winners focus on solutions, not obstacles. They embrace setbacks as learning experiences and use them to refine their approach. This mindset requires intentional effort—reading motivational books, surrounding yourself with positive influences, and reflecting on your own growth.

Winners also understand the power of consistency. They know that success isn’t always about grand gestures but about showing up, putting in the effort, and sprinting when the moment demands it. By adopting this mindset, you’ll start to see challenges as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. When you approach life with the confidence and determination of a winner, you’re better equipped to sprint toward your goals and achieve lasting success.

Examples of Sprint Moments

Let’s consider some real-world applications of the Sprint Mentality:

  • In Business: Imagine a client request comes in at the last minute. The team that acts quickly to deliver quality results gains a competitive edge.
  • In Sports: A player who consistently pushes the pace during transitions forces opponents to scramble, creating scoring opportunities.
  • In Personal Life: A person who immediately pursues a newfound passion often gets further than someone who waits for the “perfect time.”

Sprint moments are everywhere. The challenge is to recognize them and respond with urgency.

The Payoff of Sprinting

Why is the Sprint Mentality so powerful?

Because most people don’t have it. They wait, hesitate, and miss opportunities. By sprinting when it matters, you gain a massive advantage—in basketball, business, and life.

Teams that embrace the Sprint Mentality dominate transitions. They rebound and push the ball before the defense sets up. They capitalize on turnovers. They’re relentless, always moving forward.

In life, individuals with the Sprint Mentality seize opportunities, respond to challenges, and achieve more in less time. They understand that success isn’t about pacing yourself—it’s about knowing when to sprint.

Closing Thoughts on The Sprint Mentality

The Sprint Mentality isn’t about running all the time. It’s about recognizing when to shift gears and giving everything you’ve got in those crucial moments.

The next time you’re on the court, at work, or facing a personal challenge, ask yourself: Am I running the race? Then run.

When it’s time to sprint, don’t hold back. That’s how you win.

Did you enjoy this article about “The Sprint Mentality”? If so, be sure to leave us a comment. You may also want to check out this article about “Speed“…
click here.

Life is Hard. Great. RU All-In?

In the grand theatre of life, every person encounters a unique blend of challenges, obstacles, and hardships. While some may view these difficulties as insurmountable barriers, others perceive them as stepping stones to greatness. This dichotomy in perspective often separates the ordinary from the extraordinary. In a world where competition is fierce and success is not handed on a silver platter, embracing the toughness of life and actively seeking out challenges can be the key to outshining your competition. The question is, are you all-in?

The Virtue of Hardship

Life is not designed to be easy. It’s a complex, intricate journey filled with ups and downs, triumphs and setbacks. Embracing this reality is the first step toward mastering the art of overcoming adversity. Hardship serves a critical purpose: it molds us, shapes our character, and fortifies our resolve. As the saying goes, “Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors.” It is through facing and conquering challenges that we grow stronger, wiser, and more capable.

The Competitive Edge

When you actively seek out difficult tasks, you set yourself apart from the majority who prefer the path of least resistance. In every field, be it business, sports, academics, or personal development, those who excel are the ones who are not afraid to tackle the hardest problems. They understand that in doing so, they gain a competitive edge. By confronting and mastering difficulties, they develop unique skills, insights, and resilience that their competitors lack.

Consider the story of Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx. Before her rise to fame, Blakely faced numerous rejections and setbacks. However, she viewed these challenges as opportunities to innovate and improve. By persevering through tough times and continuously refining her product, she ultimately created a billion-dollar business. Her success was not a result of avoiding difficulties but embracing them and using them to her advantage.

Life is Hard. Build Resilience.

Resilience is the hallmark of those who thrive despite adversity. It is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, to keep pushing forward even when the going gets tough. Building resilience requires a mindset shift. Instead of seeing difficulties as threats, see them as opportunities for growth. Every setback is a setup for a comeback.

Developing resilience involves cultivating a few key attributes:

  1. Optimism: Maintaining a positive outlook in the face of adversity helps you stay motivated and focused on solutions rather than problems.
  2. Adaptability: Being flexible and open to change allows you to navigate through challenges more effectively.
  3. Perseverance: The ability to persist in the face of difficulties is crucial. It’s about keeping your eyes on the prize and not giving up, no matter how tough the journey gets.

Life is Hard. Are You All-In?

To truly excel and outshine your competition, you need to be all-in. This means committing fully to your goals and being willing to do whatever it takes to achieve them. It’s about having an unwavering dedication to your vision and a relentless drive to overcome any obstacles that stand in your way.

Commitment to Excellence

Excellence is not a destination but a continuous journey. It requires a commitment to constant improvement and a willingness to push beyond your comfort zone. To be all-in means striving for excellence in everything you do, whether it’s a small task or a significant project.

Take the example of athletes like Michael Jordan or Serena Williams. Their commitment to excellence is evident in their rigorous training regimens, relentless pursuit of perfection, and refusal to settle for mediocrity. They understand that to be the best, you must give your best effort consistently.

COMMITTED TO Embracing Discomfort

Growth and comfort do not coexist. To achieve greatness, you must be willing to embrace discomfort. This means taking on challenging tasks, facing your fears, and stepping outside your comfort zone regularly. It’s about pushing your limits and discovering your true potential.

COMMITTED TO a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset, as defined by psychologist Carol Dweck, is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset fosters a love for learning and resilience, which are essential for great accomplishment. People with a growth mindset view challenges as opportunities to grow rather than threats to their self-esteem. This is a key aspect of dealing with, and embracing, the hard challenges in your life.

Practical Steps to Embrace Challenges

  1. Set Big Goals: Aim high and set ambitious goals that require you to stretch beyond your current capabilities. Big goals will motivate you to put in the extra effort and face challenges head-on.
  2. Break Down Challenges: Break down big challenges into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach makes daunting tasks more approachable and allows you to make consistent progress.
  3. Seek Feedback: Actively seek feedback from others to identify areas for improvement. Constructive criticism can help you refine your approach and enhance your performance.
  4. Learn from Failures: View failures as learning opportunities rather than setbacks. Analyze what went wrong, extract valuable lessons, and apply them to future endeavors.
  5. Stay Persistent: Persistence is key to overcoming challenges. Stay committed to your goals, even when progress seems slow. Remember that persistence often outlasts resistance.

    More Resources for overcoming adversity… click here.

Real-Life Examples of Overcoming Challenges

Elon Musk: The founder of SpaceX and Tesla is no stranger to challenges. From facing near-bankruptcy to enduring multiple rocket failures, Musk’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience. His ability to learn from failures and keep pushing forward has led to groundbreaking innovations in space exploration and electric vehicles.

J.K. Rowling: Before achieving worldwide fame with the Harry Potter series, Rowling faced numerous rejections from publishers. Despite these setbacks, she continued to believe in her story and persisted in her efforts. Her success is a powerful example of how embracing hardship and staying committed to one’s vision can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Reflecting on Your Journey

Take a moment to reflect on your own journey. What challenges have you faced, and how have they shaped you? Consider the times when you chose the harder path and the lessons you learned along the way. Acknowledge the strength and resilience you’ve developed through these experiences.

Now, think about your future goals. Are you willing to go all-in? Are you ready to embrace the difficulties that lie ahead and use them as opportunities to grow and excel? Remember, greatness is not achieved by avoiding challenges but by confronting them head-on with determination and grit.

Life is hard. Deal with it.

Life is hard, and that’s what makes it great. It’s the challenges we face and the difficulties we overcome that define our journey and shape our destiny. By embracing hardship, building resilience, and committing fully to our goals, we can outshine our competition and achieve extraordinary success.

So, the next time you encounter a difficult situation, welcome it with open arms. See it as a chance to prove your mettle, to grow stronger, and to rise above the rest. Are you all-in? The path to greatness awaits those who dare to embrace the hard road and give it their all.

Find Success After “I Can’t”

By Coach Wheeler

Success comes AFTER "I Can't"

As a basketball coach, there’s one phrase that has always struck a nerve with me: “I can’t.”

I remember vividly the countless times I introduced a new skill or drill to a player, only to hear those dreaded words: “I can’t do it, Coach.” It felt like they were giving up before even trying, as if they had already decided failure was the only option. But over the years, I’ve come to realize something powerful: Success often lies just beyond that “I can’t.” If we can help ourselves—or others—push past that moment of doubt, there’s a whole world of growth and achievement waiting.

Let’s explore why we get stuck at “I can’t,” how to overcome it, and how to use that turning point to find success in every aspect of life.

Why “I Can’t” Feels So Real

When we say “I can’t,” it’s usually not about a true lack of ability. More often, it’s about fear, doubt, or a lack of vision.

  • Fear of Failure: Nobody likes to fail, especially in front of others. Saying “I can’t” is a protective mechanism. It’s easier to claim defeat upfront than to risk falling short after giving it a try.
  • Self-Doubt: Many people underestimate their own potential. They assume that because they haven’t done something before, they’ll never be able to.
  • Lack of Vision: Sometimes, people simply can’t see themselves succeeding. They can’t picture the steps or the outcome, so they shut down the idea entirely.

This is why “I can’t” often sounds like “I won’t.” It’s not that they lack the physical ability—it’s that their mindset has created a mental block.

The “Can’t Point”

What's your "I Can't" Point?

I call it the “Can’t Point”: That moment when someone bumps into the edge of their comfort zone.

For a basketball player, it might be the first time they attempt a spin move or shoot a three-pointer under pressure. For someone in life, it could be learning a new skill, speaking in front of a crowd, or starting a new venture.

The “Can’t Point” is where most people stop … where they let Self Doubt keep them from moving forward.

But here’s the truth: this is where the magic happens. The “Can’t Point” is not a wall; it’s a threshold. Beyond it lies growth, success, and achievement. The challenge is getting past it.

The Role of Confidence

One of my biggest jobs as a coach is to help players see their own potential—even when they can’t see it themselves. When a player says, “I can’t,” my response is usually something like this:

“Yes, you can. I’ve seen you do tougher things before. Let’s break it down step by step. I know you’ve got this.”

It’s amazing how much of a difference confidence—whether it comes from within or from someone else—can make. A player might go from refusing to try to giving their best effort simply because I expressed my belief in them.

Here’s the takeaway for you: if you don’t believe in yourself, borrow belief from someone who does. Surround yourself with coaches, mentors, or friends who see your potential. Their confidence can bridge the gap until you develop your own.

5 Steps to Move Beyond “I Can’t”

So how do you move beyond the “Can’t Point”? It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.

1. Break It Down

Big challenges feel overwhelming because we see them as a single, massive task. Break it into smaller, manageable pieces. For example, when teaching a player to execute a spin move, I don’t just say, “Spin and score.” I break it down into footwork, hand placement, and timing.

Do the same in your own life. Want to run a marathon but feel like “I can’t”? Start with a single mile… a single walk down to the corner and back. Want to master public speaking? Begin by talking in front of a small group.

Like I say in my book, “One Step At A Time”, every great accomplishment is the result of a load of small steps, each one easy to accomplish if you just take action in the direction of your dreams.

2. Reframe the Challenge

Instead of focusing on what you can’t do, focus on what you can learn. Think of it this way… Every “I can’t” is an opportunity to either succeed or to grow. Keep trying until “you can”.

Another way to reframe the challenge is to change your mindset from “I can’t” to “I haven’t done it yet.” That small shift in language, adding the word “yet” can make a huge difference. It WILL happen. It just hasn’t happened YET.

3. Visualize Success

Visualize what's beyond "I can't"

A lack of vision is a common reason people get stuck at “I can’t.” Maybe you “can’t” see how you could accomplish it (yet). If someone was wearing a blindfold would you say they “can’t” see? Or is there just something in the way of them seeing what needs to be done?

Take a moment to close your eyes and imagine yourself succeeding. Picture what it will look and feel like when you’ve accomplished the task. Visualization primes your brain for action and makes success feel more attainable.

4. Embrace the Struggle

Here’s the truth: it’s supposed to be hard.

Growth happens when we struggle and push through our current limites and overcome challenges. Instead of avoiding discomfort, accept it as part of the process of growing and lean into it.

Remind yourself that every time you overcome a “Can’t Point,” you’re getting stronger and more capable.

5. Take Imperfect Action

You don’t have to get it right on the first try. Most people don’t.

The key is to take action anyway. As I often tell my players, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Success is built on a foundation of attempts, failures, and adjustments.

Don’t let yourself get stuck at your “Can’t Point”.

Take Action. Any action is better than being stuck. If the results of your action turn out to be a “less than desirable outcome”, learn from it (#2-Reframe the Challenge) and try again!

A Real-Life Example… “I can’t make foul shots”

Let me share a story from my basketball coaching exploits. There was a young player I was coaching who struggled with free throws. Every time they stepped to the line in practice, they’d miss a few and mutter, “I can’t shoot free throws, Coach.”

One day, I pulled them aside and said, “What if I told you that you’re one small adjustment away from becoming the best free-throw shooter on the team? Let’s figure it out together.”

We spent extra time working on form, routine, and mindset. We settled on a simple routine for every shot. If you can make one free throw, you simply need to repeat that routine every time and you should never miss. The basket is not moving. You are standing in the same spot every time. Plus, the “free” part of free throw means that there is no one guarding you. There is no reason to ever miss a free throw, especially after you have practiced it … and practiced it … and practiced it… until it is the same every time!

I encouraged them to focus on progress, not perfection. Slowly but surely, they improved. By the end of the season, they were sinking free throws under pressure and grinning at the line.

What changed? They stopped saying “I can’t” and started saying “I’ll try.” That small shift unlocked their potential and gave them a chance to succeed every time they went to the foul line.

How You Can Use This

You don’t have to be a basketball player to apply these principles. The next time you catch yourself saying “I can’t,” pause and ask yourself a few questions:

  • Is it really true?
  • What’s one small step I can take right now?
  • Who can I ask for support or guidance?

Most importantly, remind yourself that “I can’t” is just a feeling, not a fact.

Success Lies Just Beyond

The phrase “I can’t” might feel like a stopping point, but in reality, it’s a starting line. Success doesn’t come from avoiding challenges; it comes from facing them head-on and refusing to quit.

As a coach, I’ve seen players go from “I can’t” to “I did it” more times than I can count. Each time, it’s a reminder of what’s possible when we push past our doubts and embrace our potential.

Remember: The moment you say “I can’t” is the moment you’re standing at the edge of greatness. Take one more step. Try one more time. That’s where success is waiting.

So, the next time you hear yourself—or someone else—say “I can’t,” smile and think: “I’m just getting started.”

Go out there and claim your success. It’s closer than you think.

The 5/4 advantage

Basketball is a game of strategy, split-second decisions, and maximizing opportunities. One often-overlooked moment of opportunity is what I like to call the 5/4 advantage. This occurs when your team has five players on defense, while at least one offensive player is either unable to move (because they’ve picked up their dribble) or is temporarily out of play (because they’re taking the ball out of bounds).

If you can recognize and capitalize on these moments, the defensive team holds a distinct advantage and has a real opportunity to generate a turnover or even steal the ball outright. Let’s explore how to leverage this advantage, break down the defensive strategies that work best, and discuss how to train your team to execute these situations flawlessly.

Why the 5/4 Advantage is Powerful

Imagine this scenario: It’s the end of the game. Your team is down by one (or two… or even three). There are only seconds left on the clock, and your opponent is inbounding the ball. How many times have you seen a game where the defense, in this exact situation, steals the inbound pass, races downcourt, and takes the winning shot?

Now think about this: If your team can do it in the final seconds of a game, why can’t you do it during any other point? Why wait for desperation at the buzzer when you could apply pressure on the inbounds pass—or capitalize on a trapped player—at any moment?

Here’s the truth: In the early parts of the game, your opponent isn’t expecting you to apply intense pressure. They assume those moments are routine. This is your opportunity to catch them off-guard and make them uncomfortable. When executed correctly, the 5/4 advantage can turn momentum in your favor at any point in the game.

Leveraging the 5/4 Advantage

The 5/4 advantage can occur in two main situations:

  1. When an offensive player picks up their dribble.
  2. When the ball is being inbounded.

Let’s break down how to defend in each situation and use the advantage to create turnovers.

Situation 1: Picked-Up Dribble

When an offensive player picks up their dribble, they immediately lose mobility. This is the moment to attack as a defense.

The Ball Defender’s Role:

The defender guarding the ball should:

  • Close the gap quickly: Get as close as possible to the offensive player without fouling. The goal is to make it difficult for them to see their teammates or find an open passing lane.
  • Mirror the ball: Keep your hands up and move them to mirror the ball’s movements. This makes it harder for the offensive player to make a clean pass. Avoid reaching, as this can lead to unnecessary fouls.
  • Communicate aggressively: Many teams shout something like “BALL” or “STEAL” to create confusion and increase pressure on the offensive player.

The Rest of the Defense:

  • Tighten your coverage: Defenders guarding off-ball players should step closer to their assignments and anticipate passes. Focus on jumping into passing lanes and forcing risky decisions.
  • Force a 5-second violation: Remember, the offensive player only has 5 seconds to make a pass. If you can prevent them from finding an open teammate, you’ll force a turnover. Learn more here… Understanding Basketball Rules: Five-Second Violation – Explanation of key rules like the five-second violation and how they can be used strategically.

Key Reminder:

You and your team can do anything for 5 seconds. Stay disciplined, apply pressure, and force the offense to crack under the weight of your defense.

Situation 2: Inbounds Pass

The inbounds pass is one of the most critical moments where the 5/4 advantage comes into play. Because the inbounder cannot move and is removed from the immediate play, your team effectively has a numbers advantage on the court.

Defensive Strategies for Inbounds Plays:

  1. Double-Team the Inbounder:
    Place your two tallest and most active defenders (usually your 4 and 5) on the inbounder. Their job is to:
    • Use their size and wingspan to block passing lanes.
    • Mirror the inbounder’s eyes and body language to anticipate the pass.
    • Force the inbounder to throw a lob or a rushed pass, creating an opportunity for a steal or deflection.
  2. Deny the Primary Receiver:
    The point guard (1) should focus on denying the primary ball handler, who is likely trying to get open near half-court. Stay close, face guard, and use active hands to disrupt the pass.
  3. Jump the Passing Lanes:
    Assign one player—often your small forward (3)—to act as a free safety. This player reads the inbounder’s eyes and body language to anticipate the pass and jump into the passing lane for a potential steal.
  4. Protect Against Over-the-Top Passes:
    The center (5) should maintain awareness of the paint, ready to recover quickly if the inbounder attempts a long, over-the-top pass. This prevents easy layups or fast-break opportunities.

Training the 5/4 Advantage

To make the 5/4 advantage a reliable weapon, you need to prepare your team to execute under pressure. Here’s how:

  1. Practice Situational Defense:
    Incorporate drills that simulate both picked-up dribble situations and inbounds plays. Teach players to communicate, close gaps, and anticipate passes.
  2. Condition for Intensity:
    Defending for 5 seconds may sound easy, but it requires maximum effort and focus. Use short, high-intensity defensive drills to build your team’s stamina and discipline.
  3. Film Study:
    Watch game footage to identify tendencies in opponents’ inbound plays and passing patterns. This will help your team anticipate and disrupt these plays during games.
  4. Emphasize Communication:
    Teach your players to communicate loudly and effectively during 5/4 situations. Phrases like “deny,” “trap,” or “steal” can heighten the intensity and coordination of your defense.

Why It Works

The 5/4 advantage forces the offense into high-pressure situations where mistakes are more likely. When the ball handler or inbounder is under duress, they’re more likely to:

  • Throw a bad pass.
  • Commit a turnover.
  • Hesitate and incur a 5-second violation.

Your team can capitalize on these mistakes to create momentum-shifting plays and generate easy scoring opportunities.

One last parting word on the 5/4 Advantage…

The 5/4 advantage is one of the most underutilized strategies in basketball. Whether it’s a trapped ball handler or an inbounds pass, recognizing and exploiting these moments can swing the game in your favor.

The beauty of this approach is that it works at any time, not just in the closing seconds of a game. By preparing your team to execute the 5/4 advantage effectively, you’ll create a defense that opponents dread facing—one that disrupts their rhythm and seizes opportunities at every turn.

So, the next time you see an opponent pick up their dribble or prepare to inbound the ball, remember this: You’ve got the advantage.

Now go take the ball.

— Coach Wheeler

Coach Wheeler’s Top 7 Ways to Anticipate the Future on defense!

In basketball, defense is more than just reacting to what happens in front of you. Elite defenders seem to have a knack for knowing exactly where the ball is going before the offense makes a move. This ability to anticipate the offense’s next action and be one step ahead is a hallmark of great defense. Players who master this skill can disrupt the flow of the game, generate steals, and swing momentum in their team’s favor.

Developing anticipation skills, especially in man-to-man defense, requires more than just physical ability. It involves studying tendencies, understanding positioning, reading body language, and having a high basketball IQ. In this article, we’ll break down how to hone these anticipation skills so you can start predicting the future on the court. As a fun reference point, we’ll even look at how Wayne Gretzky’s famous approach of “skating to where the puck will be” translates to basketball.

1. Study Opponents and Game Film:
See the Game Before It Happens

Anticipation begins long before the game even starts. The best defenders put in the work to study their opponents’ tendencies, understanding not just individual habits but also how entire teams run their offensive sets. Just like Wayne Gretzky would skate to where the puck was going to be, basketball players can anticipate where the ball is going based on offensive patterns.

How to Apply It:

  • Learn Tendencies: Every player has specific habits they rely on, especially under pressure. Do they prefer to drive to their right? Do they like pulling up for a jumper after one dribble? By studying your opponent’s go-to moves, you begin to develop a mental map of where they are likely to move with the ball in different situations.
  • Analyze Offensive Plays: Team offenses have structure and patterns that often repeat themselves. By studying game film and observing how teams execute plays, you can begin to predict their next move. For example, if a team frequently runs a pick-and-roll and swings the ball to the weak side for a three-point shot, you can anticipate this pass and position yourself accordingly.

As Wayne Gretzky famously said, “I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been.” In basketball, this means moving to where the ball will be, not where it currently is. By learning the tendencies of both players and offensive systems, you can get yourself into the right position to make a steal or disrupt the play.

Real-World Application:

Suppose you’re guarding a point guard who always passes to the corner after using a screen in a pick-and-roll situation. After studying their film, you notice this happens repeatedly. During the game, you anticipate the pass before it’s even made, sliding into the passing lane and intercepting the ball. You’ve effectively “skated to where the puck will be,” positioning yourself to capitalize on a predictable pattern.

2. Positioning and Footwork:
Be Where You Need to Be

Anticipation isn’t just a mental game—it requires precise physical positioning. If you’re not in the right spot, even perfect anticipation won’t result in a steal or defensive stop. Proper footwork and positioning are foundational to man-to-man defense, and they give you the physical tools to act on your reads.

How to Apply It:

  • Stay in a Defensive Stance: Maintaining a low, balanced defensive stance allows you to move quickly in any direction. By staying low, with your knees bent and your weight on the balls of your feet, you can react faster to any movement by the offense.
  • Cut Off Driving Angles: Anticipate the offensive player’s preferred direction and position your body to force them into uncomfortable situations. If you know they favor driving right, position yourself to cut off that lane and force them to go left, where they might be less effective. By cutting off options, you can funnel them into traps or force a bad pass.
  • The “Monkey in the Middle” Principle: As a defender, your goal is to either be close enough to the ball handler to disrupt their dribble or, if you’re anticipating a pass, closer to the receiver. Think about how “Monkey in the Middle” works—if you’re stuck directly between the passer and receiver, it’s easy for them to pass over you. Instead, position yourself closer to the ball or the receiver so that the pass is more difficult and potentially easier to intercept. The closer you are to the intended action, the higher your chances of making a play.

Real-World Application:

Let’s say the offense is running a simple pick-and-roll. As a defender on the wing, you can anticipate that the ball-handler will pass to the roll man or kick it out to the corner shooter. By using proper positioning and staying low, you can move to the passing lane and intercept the pass before the offense can get a shot off. You’re positioning yourself based on the likely next move, not just reacting to the current play.

3. Read Body Language and Ball Position: Eyes and Hands Tell the Story

One of the most important parts of anticipation is learning how to read the body language of the offensive player. Skilled defenders can pick up on subtle clues, such as where the ball is held, the position of the player’s eyes, or the angle of their shoulders, to predict what’s going to happen next.

How to Apply It:

  • Watch the Eyes and Shoulders: Offensive players often give away their intentions with their eyes and shoulders. A quick glance to a teammate can signal an impending pass, while a dropped shoulder often indicates an attempt to drive. By focusing on these cues, you can get ahead of the play and put yourself in a position to contest the drive or steal the ball.
  • Pay Attention to Ball Position: The position of the ball in the player’s hands is one of the best indicators of their next move:
    • If the ball is held low and to the side (usually on their strong hand), they are likely preparing to dribble or drive in that direction.
    • If the ball is held overhead, the player is likely preparing to make a pass or take a shot.
    • When dribbling, if the ball is being controlled on the right side, anticipate that they may either pass or drive to their right. Similarly, if they are controlling the ball on the left, be ready for a move or pass in that direction.

By recognizing these subtle body language and ball-handling cues, you can anticipate the offensive player’s next move before they even make it.

Real-World Application:

Imagine you’re guarding a wing player who has the ball on their right side and is scanning the court. Based on where they’re holding the ball and where they’re looking, you anticipate that they’ll try to drive baseline. You adjust your positioning, cut off the baseline, and force them into a turnover or a bad shot. You’ve effectively predicted the future based on reading their ball position and body language.

4. Court Awareness and Basketball IQ:
See the Whole Floor

Great anticipation doesn’t stop with your man—it extends to understanding the bigger picture on the court. Elite defenders know how to recognize offensive spacing, player movement, and likely passing options. Court awareness allows you to anticipate where players will move and where the ball will go next.

How to Apply It:

  • Recognize Offensive Spacing: Offensive teams use specific spacing to open up passing lanes, create driving lanes, or generate open shots. By recognizing how players are positioned on the court, you can anticipate the likely play. For instance, if a team is spaced out with shooters on the wings, expect skip passes and quick ball reversals. If they’re bunched up, be ready for a drive or an inside pass.
  • Know the Opposing Team’s Plays and Press Breaks: Once you’ve seen an opponent’s set plays or press breaks, you can anticipate where the players will move. Teams often fall into predictable patterns, especially when they’re under pressure. If you know that a team’s press break always involves a pass to the middle of the court, you can anticipate and jump the passing lane for a steal. By being aware of these “automatic” passes, you can force turnovers and disrupt the offense’s rhythm.

Real-World Application:

Let’s say the opposing team has a play where they run a high screen for their point guard, and then swing the ball to the corner for a three-pointer. After recognizing this pattern, you can start to anticipate the pass to the corner and get into position early to contest the shot or intercept the pass. Similarly, if you’ve seen their press break before, you know which players are likely to receive the ball and can position yourself to create a turnover.

5. Active Hands and Deflections:
Disrupt, Deflect, Steal

Active hands are a critical component of anticipation. Even if you don’t always get the steal, deflecting a pass or disrupting the dribble can throw off the offense and lead to turnovers.

How to Apply It:

  • Get in the Passing Lanes: When you anticipate a pass, use your hands to make it more difficult for the offense to complete it. By staying active and positioning yourself between the passer and receiver, you can deflect the ball or force a bad pass.
  • Poke the Ball Free: Even if you’re not directly in position to make a steal, using your hands to poke at the ball or disrupt a dribble can force a mistake. This could lead to a teammate securing the ball or create a turnover.

Real-World Application:

Suppose you see the point guard about to pass to the wing. You position yourself in the passing lane, keeping your hands up and ready to intercept or deflect the ball. Your active hands not only disrupt the offense’s rhythm but also create a fast-break opportunity for your team.

6. Improve Reaction Time:
“Be Quick, Don’t Hurry“

Anticipation is only as good as your ability to act on it. You can predict where the ball is going, but if you can’t react quickly enough, the offense will still have the advantage. This is where the famous John Wooden quote, “Be quick, but don’t hurry,” comes into play. You want to react swiftly without sacrificing control. Quick reactions paired with smart decisions are the ultimate combination for effective defense.

How to Apply It:

  • Agility Drills: Work on your lateral quickness through drills that emphasize speed, change of direction, and explosiveness. Ladder drills, cone drills, and defensive slide drills will help you develop the foot speed needed to keep up with offensive players.
  • Reaction Time Drills: To hone your ability to react quickly to stimuli, incorporate drills that force you to respond to unexpected situations. One effective drill is having a coach or teammate hold up different numbers or colors, prompting you to make a decision about which direction to slide or move. Another option is to react to quick passes or movements from a coach simulating a ball-handler, sharpening your ability to respond in real time.

The essence of “Be quick, don’t hurry” is balancing speed with control. It’s about making fast decisions without rushing or losing your composure. Elite defenders understand this balance and use it to react efficiently, putting themselves in the right position without overcommitting or losing control of their movements.

Real-World Application:

If you’re anticipating a skip pass, your goal is to quickly jump into the passing lane. However, if you rush and overcommit, the offensive player might fake the pass or make a different move, leaving you out of position. Instead, focus on reacting quickly while staying balanced and under control, allowing you to adjust if the offense changes its action. You’re being quick without hurrying, maintaining the upper hand on defense.

7. Anticipation in Transition:
Predict the Next Pass

One of the most effective places to anticipate a steal is during an offensive transition or fast break. When players are moving quickly up the court, they are more likely to make rushed or predictable passes. This is a prime opportunity to read the offense, position yourself, and intercept a sloppy or “automatic” pass.

How to Apply It:

  • Position Yourself for the Interception: In transition, offensive players are often looking for the quickest path to the basket. They’re less likely to make complex passes and more likely to hit the open man with a simple pass. As a defender, you can anticipate where the ball is likely to go and position yourself for the interception. For example, if you’re trailing the play, you can look for an opportunity to jump a passing lane when the ball-handler swings the ball to a wing player.
  • Observe Player Movement: In transition, players tend to run in predictable patterns—either filling lanes for a fast break or trying to position themselves for an open shot. By anticipating these movements, you can better predict where the next pass will go. Once you’ve seen an opponent’s fast-break setup a few times, it becomes easier to anticipate their passing options and pick off a pass in the open court.

Real-World Application:

Suppose the opposing team is running a fast break, and you notice that their point guard always passes ahead to the player filling the lane on the right side. By recognizing this pattern, you can cheat toward the passing lane and be ready to pick off the pass. With your anticipation, you turn a defensive situation into a fast-break opportunity for your team.

The Future is NOW…

Developing anticipation skills in basketball is about much more than reacting to what’s happening in front of you. It’s about studying your opponents, understanding offensive patterns, reading body language and ball position, and reacting with speed and control. As Wayne Gretzky would say, you need to “skate to where the puck will be,” meaning that you should position yourself where the ball is going to go, not where it currently is.

Mastering anticipation involves:

  • Studying your opponent’s tendencies and team plays through game film.
  • Positioning yourself correctly to cut off driving lanes and intercept passes.
  • Reading body language and where the ball is held to predict the offensive player’s next move.
  • Using court awareness to recognize offensive spacing and player movement, especially after seeing their press break or set plays.
  • Staying active with your hands to deflect passes and disrupt the ball-handler.
  • Improving your reaction time through agility and decision-making drills, ensuring you can capitalize on what you anticipate.

By applying these principles and training them consistently, you’ll be able to predict the offense’s moves, generate steals, and create opportunities for your team. The ability to anticipate isn’t about luck—it’s a skill that can be developed and refined with the right mindset and dedication. So start putting in the work, stay mentally engaged, and begin “skating to where the ball will be” on every defensive possession.

Looking for more about Anticipation Skills? Check out this article by Coach Wheeler from last year. It has additional resources and a few more ideas for you to consider. Click here.

The Hoo-AH! Mindset: How to Add Elite Focus and Relentless Drive

The Hoo-AH! Mindset... are you ready?

In life and in sports, there are moments that test us to our core. Moments where we question whether we have what it takes to push through the exhaustion, the doubt, and the setbacks. It’s in those moments when we need something more than just effort—we need mental grit, relentless confidence, and a winning attitude. That’s where the Hoo-AH! Mindset comes in.

More than just a word, Hoo-AH! is a battle cry born from the elite training of the U.S. Army Rangers. It represents a mentality of readiness, strength, and collective unity that has fueled some of the world’s most highly trained and disciplined soldiers. Now, this powerful mindset can inspire your approach to life, competition, and personal challenges.

But what does Hoo-AH! really mean, where does it come from, and how can you apply it to your life to level up your performance? Let’s dive in.

The Origins of Hoo-AH!

The term Hoo-AH! is a staple of the U.S. Army and, more specifically, the Army Rangers—elite soldiers who are known for their unmatched discipline, endurance, and tactical prowess. It’s believed that Hoo-AH! originated as a form of acknowledgment, a way for Rangers to say “I Hear you, I Understand, and I Acknowledge the order (I’m ready).” Over time, it evolved into something much more powerful—a rallying cry that soldiers use to affirm their resilience and their readiness to take on any challenge.

Whether they’re being asked if they’re tired, if they’re ready to face a mission, or if they’ve accomplished something monumental, the response is always the same: Hoo-AH! It’s a word that signals not only physical toughness but a mental toughness that is unshakable. It’s a commitment to never back down, no matter how hard the situation gets.

Imagine how powerful it would be if we could apply this mindset to our own lives—whether on the court, in the office, or facing personal adversity.

What Hoo-AH! Means

At its core, Hoo-AH! is about more than just saying a word; it’s about adopting a mentality that embraces challenges, embodies discipline, and fosters an unstoppable drive toward success. Here’s what the Hoo-AH! mindset really stands for:

Readiness: When you live by the Hoo-AH! mindset, you are always ready. Ready for the game, ready for the challenge, ready to push your limits. It’s about staying mentally prepared to give your best effort at all times, even when you’re tired, and even when doubt creeps in.

Mental Resilience: Hoo-AH! is the verbal embodiment of mental resilience. It’s a way of telling the world, “I’m still here. I’m not giving up.” In sports, and in life, this means you face adversity head-on, knowing that your strength comes from your refusal to quit.

Confidence Under Pressure: The Hoo-AH! mindset means that when things get tough, you get tougher. It’s about finding that inner belief when everyone else is doubting you, when the game is on the line, or when you’re on the verge of breaking down. You respond with Hoo-AH!, signaling that you are not just surviving but thriving under pressure.

Team Unity and Support: Hoo-AH! is often a collective cry, a shout that unites a group of people around a common goal. In sports, it’s the team’s shared belief that they can overcome any obstacle when they work together. It’s about having each other’s backs and knowing that your effort contributes to something bigger than yourself.

What the Hoo-AH! Mindset Does

When you adopt the Hoo-AH! mindset, it transforms how you approach every aspect of your life. Here’s how:

It Builds Unstoppable Momentum: When you live by Hoo-AH!, you develop momentum that propels you forward. Whether you’re an athlete pushing through a tough training session or someone striving for personal growth, the more you embrace Hoo-AH!, the more you push yourself beyond your perceived limits.

It Cultivates Mental Toughness: The Hoo-AH! mindset fosters an internal toughness that keeps you standing tall even when you’re faced with adversity. You become the person who looks at challenges not with fear, but with anticipation and readiness. This mental toughness becomes your secret weapon in overcoming obstacles.

It Elevates Your Team: Just like the Army Rangers who use Hoo-AH! to rally each other in the toughest of missions, you can use this mindset to elevate those around you. Whether in sports, business, or life, your commitment to never give up will inspire your team, your coworkers, and your community to do the same.

It Develops Consistency: One of the greatest challenges in any pursuit—whether athletic, academic, or professional—is staying consistent. The Hoo-AH! mindset pushes you to show up every day, even when you don’t feel like it, even when the odds are stacked against you. It becomes your daily mantra for perseverance.

How to Add Hoo-AH! to Your Life

Ready to add the Hoo-AH! mindset to your life? Here’s how you can start making it part of your personal and competitive journey:

  1. Set a Challenge
    Start by setting a challenge that will push you outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s running an extra mile, completing an advanced drill, or pushing yourself in the weight room, give yourself a goal that feels difficult. When you complete it, shout Hoo-AH!—celebrate the victory, no matter how small.
  2. Use It as a Rallying Cry
    Whenever you’re faced with a tough situation, mentally or physically, use Hoo-AH! as your battle cry. Tell yourself you’re ready. If you’re working with a team, get them to join you in saying it. Make it a point of uniting everyone around the idea that you can accomplish more together than you can alone.
  3. Push Through Fatigue
    When you feel tired, don’t give in. Let Hoo-AH! be your answer to fatigue. The next time you feel exhausted during a workout, practice, or long workday, ask yourself if you’re tired. Then respond with a loud Hoo-AH! and keep pushing. You’ll be surprised at how much further you can go.
  4. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Wins
    Hoo-AH! is about celebrating your effort, not just the final score. Anytime you put in the work, especially when it feels difficult, you’ve earned the right to say Hoo-AH!. This mindset shifts your focus from outcomes to the process, making you stronger in the long run.
  5. Make It Part of Your Daily Routine
    Start each day with a Hoo-AH! mindset. When you wake up, remind yourself that you are ready for whatever the day brings. When you go to practice, walk into the gym with the knowledge that you’ll give it your all. The more you embed this attitude into your daily life, the more it becomes second nature.


The Hoo-AH! mindset is more than just a word—it’s a way of life. It’s about readiness, resilience, and unshakeable confidence. It’s taking responsibility for what you are going to do to improve your situation. It’s about uniting your team around a common goal and using your mental and physical toughness to push through any obstacle.

So the next time you’re asked if you’re ready for the challenge, or if you’re tired, or if you’ve got what it takes, respond with the only answer that matters: Hoo-AH!

Please leave a comment below. I’d love to hear how you have applied the Hoo-AH! Mindset in your own life or even stories of how Hoo-AH! has helped others succeed.

Imperfect Action: The First Secret to Building a Winning Mindset

Imperfect Action leads to progress

How many times have you found yourself waiting for the perfect moment to act? Maybe you’ve said, “I’ll start when I’m ready,” or “Once everything falls into place, I’ll go for it.” If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The quest for perfection is a common trap that catches even the most ambitious among us. But here’s the truth: Perfection is a myth. Waiting for it is a surefire way to stay stuck.

Success doesn’t come from waiting for perfect conditions—it comes from taking imperfect action. The key to building a winning mindset is to take action now, even if you don’t feel 100% ready, even if it’s messy, uncertain, or uncomfortable. Today, we’ll explore why imperfect action is so powerful and how it’s the foundation of success.

Fear of Imperfection: The Invisible Chain

One of the biggest reasons people hesitate to take action is fear. Fear of failure. Fear of being judged. Fear of making mistakes. These are the invisible chains that hold you back from achieving greatness. The truth is, fear will always be there. It whispers in your ear, giving you every reason why you shouldn’t start or why you’re not ready.

But here’s the good news: Action is the antidote to fear. The moment you take that first step, no matter how imperfect, fear begins to lose its grip. Every time you act, you prove to yourself that you can handle uncertainty. You build confidence by doing, not by thinking or planning.

As Marshall Sylver, a motivational powerhouse, often says, “Do something, even if it’s wrong.” This isn’t a call to be reckless, but a reminder that waiting for perfection is a form of procrastination. The time to act is now, not tomorrow, not next week. When you take imperfect action, you shatter the illusion that everything has to be perfect before you move forward.

Progress Beats Perfection

The world loves to celebrate perfection. But those who have built successful, winning mindsets know that progress is far more important than perfection. They understand that taking small, consistent actions—no matter how messy—leads to greater success than waiting for everything to be flawless.

Think about the most successful athletes, entrepreneurs, or thought leaders. Do you think they waited for the perfect moment to take action? Absolutely not. They moved forward despite the uncertainty. They embraced imperfection, knowing that progress, not perfection, is what fuels momentum.

In my years of coaching and building teams, I’ve seen firsthand how the pursuit of perfection can paralyze players. They hesitate, waiting for the perfect opportunity to make a move, only to watch as their chance slips away. But those who act, even when things aren’t perfect, learn and grow faster than anyone else. Taking that first step—even if it’s imperfect—puts you on the path to progress.

Momentum is Everything

Imperfect action creates momentum, and momentum is a powerful force. It’s what separates winners from those who stay stuck on the sidelines. The first step you take may not be flawless, but it creates forward motion. And once you’re in motion, it’s easier to keep going. Momentum builds confidence, and confidence leads to even more action.

The biggest mistake you can make is to let perfectionism stop you from moving forward. Each time you take a small step, even if it’s not perfect, you gain real-world experience, solve problems, and refine your approach. Success loves speed—and imperfect action allows you to move faster. While others are still perfecting their plans, you’re already in the game, learning and improving.

Marshall Sylver talks about the importance of momentum in his programs, emphasizing the need to act fast. Once you have momentum on your side, it’s tough to stop. And how do you build momentum? By taking that first step, even if it’s imperfect. That step sets everything in motion, and before you know it, you’re making progress that would have seemed impossible if you had waited.

Clarity Comes Through Action

You don’t need to have everything figured out before you take action. In fact, clarity comes through action. Many people wait for a crystal-clear vision before they start, but the reality is, the path only becomes clearer once you begin. When you take the first step, the next one becomes more obvious. And after that, the next.

This is why action is so critical. Sitting on the sidelines, overthinking, or trying to perfect every detail won’t get you any closer to your goals. Taking imperfect action, on the other hand, allows you to learn as you go. It’s through doing that you gain the insights and experience necessary to refine your strategy. You adapt, adjust, and move forward. By the time others are still working on their plans, you’ve already gained the upper hand with real-world knowledge and experience.

As Coach, I’ve seen this play out in sports time and time again. Players who hesitate, waiting for the perfect moment to strike, often miss their chance. But those who step onto the court with confidence, willing to make mistakes, find their rhythm and create success through effort and adjustment.

The Power of Imperfect Action in the Present

One of the greatest gifts of imperfect action is that it allows you to operate in the present moment. You’re not waiting for a future that may or may not happen. You’re taking control of your life now. This sense of urgency is a game-changer. When you take action now, you send a message to yourself and the world: “I’m committed. I’m serious. I’m ready to win.”

Will you always feel ready? No. There will be moments of doubt. There will be times when you feel uncertain or unprepared. But if you wait until you feel perfectly ready, you’ll wait forever. The time is now, even if it’s messy, even if you don’t have all the answers. That’s the essence of imperfect action.

As Marshall Sylver emphasizes, “Take action now!” When you act in the present, you take control of your future. You stop being a spectator in your own life and start becoming a player.

Imperfect Action Builds Mental Toughness

Imperfect action also strengthens your mental toughness. It teaches you how to move forward, even when conditions aren’t ideal. It forces you to push through fear, uncertainty, and doubt. And over time, this process builds an unshakable resilience.

Mental toughness isn’t developed by waiting for things to be easy or perfect. It’s built in the trenches, in the moments when you feel uncomfortable or unsure, but keep going anyway. This ability to act despite the obstacles in your path is what separates winners from those who stay stuck.

The key is to embrace the discomfort that comes with imperfect action. Every time you push through, you become stronger. Every time you act, despite the fear, you get closer to your goal. You learn to thrive in uncertain conditions, and that makes you unstoppable.

The First Step is Everything

One Step at a Time by Coach Wheeler. Coming soon to Amazon.com. Leave a comment for a free digital copy.

Here’s the final piece of the puzzle: The first step is everything. You don’t need to see the whole path right now. You just need to take that first step, no matter how imperfect it is. Once you do, everything starts to fall into place. You learn. You adapt. You grow.

Imperfect action frees you from the pressure of knowing all the answers. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about moving forward, one step at a time. And the beauty of imperfect action is that it creates opportunities you wouldn’t have seen if you had waited.

So, what’s the one thing you can do today? What’s one small action you can take right now, even if it’s imperfect? Don’t wait for the perfect moment because that moment may never come. Act now, even if it’s messy. Because imperfect action beats perfect inaction every single time.

Success Favors the Bold

A winning mindset isn’t built on waiting for the right moment; it’s built on taking action, learning from mistakes, and moving forward despite the challenges. Success favors the bold, those willing to take imperfect action and adjust along the way.

So, what are you waiting for? The time to act is now. Take that first step today, no matter how imperfect. Because each imperfect step brings you closer to your goal. And in the end, that’s what winning is all about—moving forward.

Let’s get to work.

Control the Controllables

The Secret to Unlocking Your Full Potential in Basketball and Beyond

Coach Wheeler

In the high-pressure world of basketball, where every second counts and every decision matters, players and coaches alike are often confronted with a multitude of challenges. These challenges can range from the unpredictability of the opposition to the ever-changing dynamics of the game itself. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when so many factors seem beyond your control. But what if the secret to success wasn’t about controlling everything but instead about focusing on the things you can control?

Welcome to the concept of “Control the Controllables“—a powerful mindset that can transform your approach to the game, your performance on the court, and even your life outside of basketball. At its core, controlling the controllables is about shifting your focus from external factors (like referees’ calls, weather conditions, or the skill level of your opponent) to the internal factors that you can directly influence (like your effort, attitude, and preparation). This mindset not only helps you play better but also builds resilience, reduces stress, and ultimately leads to a more consistent and fulfilling performance.

The Power of Focus: Why Controlling the Controllables Matters

Let’s face it: in basketball, as in life, not everything is within your control. There will be days when the referees make questionable calls, the crowd noise is deafening, or your shot just isn’t falling. It’s in these moments of adversity that the “Control the Controllables” mindset becomes your greatest ally.

Consider this: when you focus on things outside your control, you waste energy and mental bandwidth on factors that are often unpredictable and uncontrollable. This can lead to frustration, anxiety, and even a decline in performance. On the other hand, by honing in on what you can control—your hustle, your preparation, your response to challenges—you become more grounded, more confident, and more effective.

In basketball, this mindset translates to better on-court decisions, more consistent performance, and a greater ability to stay calm under pressure. Off the court, it can help you manage stress, improve your relationships, and achieve your goals more efficiently. The beauty of this approach is that it doesn’t require you to be the most talented player on the court; it only requires you to be disciplined and focused on what truly matters.

Four Pillars to Control the Controllables:
Effort, Fundamentals, Preparation, and Conditioning

To help you put this concept into practice, let’s break down the controllables into four broad categories: Effort & Attitude, Fundamentals & Skills, Game Preparation & Strategy, and Physical Conditioning & Health. By mastering these areas, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the best version of yourself, both on and off the court.

  1. Effort & Attitude
    The first pillar is perhaps the most critical. Effort and attitude are the foundation upon which all other controllables are built. No matter how skilled you are, without the right effort and attitude, you’ll never reach your full potential. The best part? Both are 100% within your control.

Hustle on every play: Hustle is a reflection of your commitment to the game. It shows that you’re willing to outwork your opponent and seize every opportunity, whether it’s diving for a loose ball or sprinting back on defense.

Positive body language: How you carry yourself on the court can influence not only your mindset but also that of your teammates. Positive body language shows confidence and resilience, even in the face of adversity.

Staying composed under pressure: Basketball is a game of runs. Staying calm and composed when the pressure is on can be the difference between winning and losing.

By focusing on your effort and attitude, you set the tone for your performance. Remember, while you can’t control how your opponent plays, you can always control how hard you play and how you respond to challenges.

  1. Fundamentals & Skills
    The second pillar focuses on the fundamentals—those basic yet crucial skills that are often overlooked in favor of flashier aspects of the game. But here’s the truth: the fundamentals are what win games.

Proper shooting mechanics: Consistent shooting mechanics lead to better accuracy and more reliable scoring. It’s not just about making the shot; it’s about making the shot the right way.

Ball handling skills: Strong ball-handling skills allow you to protect the ball, create space, and make plays. This is especially important under pressure, where turnovers can be costly.

Defensive stance and footwork: Defense wins championships. By mastering your stance and footwork, you can become a lockdown defender who frustrates even the best offensive players.

These are all areas you can control through practice and repetition. The more you focus on mastering the fundamentals, the more reliable and confident you’ll become in your overall game.

  1. Game Preparation & Strategy
    Preparation is often what separates the good from the great. The third pillar, Game Preparation & Strategy, emphasizes the importance of being mentally and physically ready for every game.

Knowing the game plan: Understanding your team’s strategy and how you fit into it is crucial. It allows you to execute plays effectively and make adjustments as needed.

Scouting the opponent: Knowledge is power. By studying your opponent, you can anticipate their moves and exploit their weaknesses.

Executing offensive sets: The ability to run plays effectively requires discipline and focus. It’s not just about knowing the play; it’s about executing it to perfection.

Preparation is something you have complete control over. By being diligent in your game preparation, you increase your chances of success and put yourself in a position to win.

  1. Physical Conditioning & Health
    The final pillar is Physical Conditioning & Health. Your body is your most important asset as a basketball player, and taking care of it should be a top priority.

Consistent strength training: Building strength helps you compete physically and reduces your risk of injury. It also enhances your ability to perform explosive movements, like jumping and sprinting.

Proper nutrition and hydration: What you put into your body directly affects your performance. By fueling yourself with the right nutrients and staying hydrated, you ensure that you have the energy and stamina to compete at your best.

Injury prevention exercises: Staying healthy is key to staying on the court. Incorporating injury prevention exercises into your routine helps protect you from common basketball injuries.

Your physical condition is entirely within your control. By taking care of your body, you ensure that you can perform at a high level throughout the season and beyond.

Applying the “Control the Controllables” Mindset Beyond Basketball

While the concept of controlling the controllables is highly effective in basketball, its application extends far beyond the court. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone simply trying to navigate the challenges of life, this mindset can be a game-changer.

In your personal life, you can control your response to situations, your work ethic, and your commitment to your goals. In your professional life, you can control how prepared you are for meetings, how you interact with colleagues, and how you handle deadlines. By focusing on what you can control, you reduce stress, increase your productivity, and build a more positive and resilient mindset.

Don’t Just Control the Controllables: MASTER THEM!

The beauty of the “Control the Controllables” mindset lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s not about trying to control everything—it’s about focusing on the aspects of your game and your life that you can directly influence. By mastering the controllables, you empower yourself to become the best version of yourself, both on and off the court.

As you continue on your journey as an athlete or coach, remember that your success is not solely determined by external factors. It’s shaped by your effort, your attitude, your preparation, and your commitment to the fundamentals. These are the things you can control, and by mastering them, you set yourself up for success.

So, the next time you step onto the court or face a challenge in your life, ask yourself: “Am I controlling the controllables?” Focus on what you can influence, and let go of the rest. In doing so, you’ll not only improve your game—you’ll also unlock your full potential and become a true champion, both on the court and in life.

Want a Tshirt with this image? Leave a comment and mention your size. The first person gets a tshirt compliments of Coach Wheeler

And remember, if you’re looking for a detailed guide on how to control the controllables in basketball, don’t miss out on Coach Wheeler’s exclusive list of 52 controllables, available as a bonus giveaway for leaving a comment below. What do you think is the most important controlable? Is it on the list? This resource will help you take your game to the next level by providing actionable insights into what you can control—and how to control it effectively.

Stay focused, stay disciplined, and keep controlling the controllables. Your journey to greatness starts here.