If you don't do what's best for your body, you're the one who comes up on the short end.
Julius ErvingRead
Right up until the time I retired at age 37, I felt like there were still things that I could do better.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the relentless pursuit of improvement and excellence, even at the pinnacle of one's career.
Julius Erving's quote reflects the mindset of a true champion who believes in continuous self-improvement. Despite reaching the peak of his career by the age of 37, he acknowledges that he still had room for growth, showcasing a commitment to personal development and excellence that transcends accomplishments.
In practice
In a motivational speech about perseverance and dedication.
If you don't do what's best for your body, you're the one who comes up on the short end.
One of the most predictable things in life is there will be change. You are better off if you can have a say in the change. But you are ignorant or naive if you don't think there will be change, whether you want it to or not.
When I get a chance to power jump off both legs, I can lean, twist, change directions and decide whether to dunk the ball or pass it to an open man. In other words, I may be committed to the air, but I still have some control over it.
I demand more of myself than anyone else could ever expect.
When I played, the owners had the power. The prisoners are running the prison now, not the warden. The warden is strong and he has say so but, the balance of power is definitely with the players.
I keep both eyes on my man. The basket hasn't moved on me yet.
Look at guys like Larry Bird and George Brett and John McEnroe; that's what they did in their careers. They all wanted to be the guy under the microscope late in the game or late in the match. So you just take on that know-how that that's part of your responsibility, and you learn that's what makes it exciting. That's what makes it fun!
Every great man, every successful man, no matter what the field of endeavor, has known the magic that lies in these words: every adversity has the seed of an equivalent or greater benefit.
I never thought a career as a musician was possible.
People think focus means saying yes to the thing you've got to focus on. But that's not what it means at all. It means saying no to the hundred other good ideas that there are. You have to pick carefully. I'm actually as proud of the things we haven't done as the things I have done. Innovation is saying no to 1,000 things.
The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it.
Everyone wants to be a movie star or a model, to be in the papers, but few realise just what hard work it is, getting up early, and so on.
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