It didn't used to be this hard. Sure, you'd hear about players committing to schools, signing pro contracts, or getting national team call-ups. But nowadays? The flood of awards, showcases, and social media hype creates a potentially toxic mix for players if not handled appropriately.
We've all seen the studies on social media's impact, especially on teenagers. It's a breeding ground for comparison, often leading to decreased self-confidence and increased depression. Players can easily fall into the trap of measuring their journey against carefully curated highlight reels.
Duck Syndrome refers to that image of a duck we see effortlessly gliding across the water, while under the water, that same duck is furiously paddling to maintain its graceful appearance. That's what we often see on social media - the smooth glide, not the struggle underneath.
I'm not here to criticize players for showcasing their achievements. In today's competitive recruiting landscape, you need to use every tool at your disposal. But this is a warning: be mindful of how much time and energy you're pouring into this digital showcase. More importantly, be wary of fixating on other players' journeys.
I constantly remind my players: your path is uniquely yours. Obsessing over someone else's highlight reel only breeds anxiety and distracts you from what really matters. It can even lead to poor decisions if you're not careful.
When Instagram shows you a teammate committing to their dream school or another player getting a regional camp call-up, it's easy to feel like you're falling behind. Channel that feeling into motivation, sure. But focus on what you can control. Get out on the field and refine your finishing. Stretch. Fuel your body right. Study game film. The list of ways to improve is endless, so why waste time trying to "keep up" with a curated version of someone else's journey?
Be proud of your achievements. Share them if you want. But never forget what got you there in the first place: hard work and an unwavering commitment to improvement. Your journey is yours alone.
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