Stay On Top Of Your Game

Something I always think about is my interaction with Derek Jeter in 1999 after he had just won his third World Series and finished one of his best seasons yet.  We were talking and I asked him where he would be vacationing. His response? He insisted that there was no time for relaxing.

He said he would be working out every day. I had always known about his passion, but what was really going to turn him into one of the greatest players ever was working consistently every day to get better.

In my first book, “The Business Playbook,” I wrote something about Jeter’s drive and determination.  I spoke about how Jeter has more base hits than any other player in the MLB since 1996. To this day, even in retirement, that still holds.

So what’s my point? Jeter was on top of his game throughout his entire career. Staying on top of your game doesn’t just apply to athletes looking to hold records. It applies to anybody who is looking to be successful in any area of life.

Maybe you’re not really happy with your current position at work. Perhaps you’ve been doing quite a bit of bitching and moaning about your job.

Let me tell you this—just because you are unhappy, it doesn’t give you the right to do a mediocre job and it certainly doesn’t give you a pass to complain. Whether you are a customer service representative, a waitress, a cashier, or anything, do everything you can to stay on top of your game so that you can be promoted to something better.

Some things you can do:

  • Learn more about the company and the products they offer.
  • Take evening courses to learn ways in which you can sharpen your skills.
  • Find articles to read (such as this one) that will offer positive affirmations and change your mindset.
  • Look for ways to improve yourself and to provide better service.

It’s time you realize you must shift gears. Stop the bitching and moaning and instead, begin to invest in who you are and what you strive to be. You’ll be amazed at the opportunities that begin to open up for you.


1 comment


  • What wonderful words Mr. Steiner but they ring hollow to one of your customers who placed an order for Two autographs for the upcoming Gary Sanchez public signing yesterday, and received a confirmation number. But today I get a cancellation notice saying you do not have enough in Stock? Please explain how you do not have enough autographs of an athlete you have under exclusive contract? Or will they become available later at a higher price?. Not cool on so many levels.

    Jonathan Sterling on

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