Want vs. Willing

Originally Published in: Game Ready - 52 Takeaways for Winning by Coach Mickey Marley

I made this statement earlier, but I think it bears repeating. I often would ask my players this question: 'How many of you want to be a champion?' Everybody immediately would throw their hands up.

Next question. 'How many of you are willing to do what it takes to become one?' Again, everybody would throw their hands up.

Now, when talking to a high school football team most players understood the questions asked and threw their hands up due to their true conviction. Some didn't really understand the questions asked and threw up their hands mainly because everyone else did.

We, as coaches, always made sure that all involved with the team eventually understood those questions. How did we do that? The answer is simple. We, as coaches, demanded everyone's best effort at all times.

The difference between 'want vs. willing' is huge, and as coaches, we know that to be true. It is our job to make sure all involved with the team learn the difference.

So, for instance, you say you want a Mercedes. That's great. Well, are you willing to do what it takes to get one? You know, like all things, it comes with a price tag.

Or, maybe you want to be a doctor or lawyer. Again, that is great. But are you willing to do what it takes to be a doctor or a lawyer?

Now, you just raised your hand to say that you want to be a championship caliber football player. The question is, 'Are you willing to be a great teammate?' And, as coaches, we must ask the team this question. Are all of you truly committed; committed to giving all you got in every lifting session, workout, team meeting, practice session, your actions on and away from the field, academics, and games? This list certainly can go on and on.

If one is willing to truly 'pay the price' in whatever they are doing then they have a great chance for success. If one is not willing to 'pay the price' in whatever they are doing then they have a lousy chance for success. I mean lousy.

The true champions in any field of endeavor are sure of what they want and are willing to go get it. The question you must answer is 'Do you know what you want and are you willing to go get it?' There is a huge difference between 'want vs. willing.' You decide the difference for you.

It's really pretty simple. Successful people, in whatever field they choose, don't luck into it; they work into it. That work is a lifetime commitment. Successful people know in their youth what they want, and as they age, believe me, they still know what they want. They are willing to pay the price to become successful.