Head in the game

«Life is a game». That is how we define our situation; the present one when we are facing trouble or a problem. The book «Inner game» talks about the emotional game we are in when life gets a little bit more personal. We may be facing real trouble or a state of mind that is problematic; we need to reassess ourselves and see what we can do to get ahead of the game.

First, we need to develop the skills required to play.

Second, we need to know the rules of the game.

Third, we should play by the rules using our special sets of skills by practicing that game.

Fourth, we must enjoy the play while it lasts.  

«While learning tennis, you begin to learn control of the mind, to concentrate the energy of awareness, you have learned something far more valuable than how to hit a forceful backhand.»When we are competing for any kind of thing in life we can be sure to master the game so when we compete we are able to succeed in the match. Life not only has rules but also opponents; those opponents can be real people, imaginary ones (ourselves) or they can be a situation. We must concentrate while we practice in playing the game. If we don’t focus, we may lose.

Once we focus we are able to play and in our game, we can control what we can: our game; not the opponent, nor his or her ability, nor their state of mind. When we play we are in control of our ability: in how we are playing.

When we are playing, the rest will be sorted out in the match. How we act is the way we can know we will win or lose. If we lose focus on what is important, we can risk our game and lose it.