| by Amber Bradley – Editor-in-Chief – TalkLPnews One of my favorite places on earth is the US Open grounds in Flushing Meadow, New York. I’m sure it comes as no surprise to my loyal readers as a former collegiate tennis player that I watched the US Open faithfully since I was a kid. Yes, life is busy so I don’t know all the ins and outs of the newest players. But what I do know is when I step foot on those US Open grounds I’m completely immersed in tennis drama and nothing else enters my brain. Not work, not parental duties, not crushing deadlines or event attendee counts – just a sport I love to watch the world’s best play. One of my favorite quotes is enshrined in the player’s tunnel on a steel plate. It says, “Pressure is a Privilege” – Billy Jean King. Players who understand the saying and the historical significance of Billy Jean herself often tap it with their hand prior to taking Arthur Ashe center court – the largest and most prestigious of them all. |
| As an entrepreneur and former athlete (pickleball doesn’t count), this quote is everything. If you truly understand the circumstances you find yourself in – feeling the pressure – the pressure of something potentially turning out amazing! Of course, there are different types of pressures in life, but I’m referring to the pressure that makes champions. The pressure of YOU are the one that will be the difference in your organization. YOU are the one that ensures your company’s employees stay safe or your department meets the numbers. And if the responsibility doesn’t rest squarely on your shoulders, then your pressure is the be the difference maker. The star player. The one that closes the big case or thinks of the difference-making angle. In my humble opinion, the crux of the meaning of this quote is all about gratitude and grit. Being thankful for the situation you’re in – healthy, thriving, trusted – and the opportunity to show up and execute. What people don’t usually know about Billy Jean’s quote is that wasn’t it entirely. She actually said, “Pressure is a privilege and champions adjust.” Remember, YOU are the champion of your organization and when things get hard(er) adjust your strategy and remember: Pressure can be a privilege if we have the right perspective about our role within our organizations. |