Staying in the Present - Kendal Chang

This class has allowed me to reflect on what it means to make meaning, and I relate to this a lot when I am playing a tennis match. Some of the readings we discussed in class talked about being in the right state of mind. My coach and BeMindful success coach always emphasize the importance of staying in the present. We have to be in a flow state in order to reach our maximum potential. Being in a flow state allows us to fully focus on each point, with no distractions. I have a hard time thinking too far ahead or dwelling on the past points I have lost, making it hard to focus on the point I am about to play. It was just recently in college that I was able to realize how important it is to be in a flow state, or what my coach likes to call it, the “4-6 range”. If our mind is in this range, we are in a good state of mind. If we are above or below it, that can cause our minds to spiral, and we can struggle to fully be in the present.

This feeling of being in a flow state connects to the idea that meaning comes from the choices we make. I am making countless small decisions while I play a point, whether it is taking a risky shot, responding to an opponent’s shot, or even choosing how to handle my emotions. Playing tennis has shown me that finding meaning is in the process, and not just the outcomes. I have learned that it is okay to lose or make mistakes. That is a part of the journey, and it allows me to grow. I have learned to fully embrace this journey, appreciating every experience I have encountered along the way.


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