Derek Jeter is a sports legend.
As a Mets fan, my feelings about Jeter’s final games this weekend are a bit complicated (I’m sad to see him leave the league, but glad that my boys no longer have to face him). But as a professional, I think this is an important time to reflect on what No. 2 has taught us.
No, I’m not talking about baseball. The lessons from Jeter’s career transcend his sport.
Before you say goodbye to Jeter during his last home game on Sept. 25 and his last ever game in Boston on Sept. 28, learn how channeling Jeter can help your company and your career.
Work Hard
Talent is not the only factor for success. Jeter’s quote in the image above perfectly sums up the difference between simply being gifted and working really hard for something. You are born with certain talents, but it is what you do with your abilities that really matters.
You may not have the same natural gifts as some, but you can be the person who works the hardest. Whether you are a small business owner or an employee working on moving up the corporate ladder, hard work can make you stand out from your competition and lead to success.
Play Hard
To balance out that hard work, make sure you also have fun with what you are doing. Jeter knows the importance of loving what you do.
“It’s a business, it’s our job, but I don’t think you can do well unless you’re having fun,” he said.
Even though your career is a serious matter, you will not be able to do it well if you are miserable. Working with people whose company you enjoy, keeping a good work-life balance and taking time to celebrate successes can help to keep you engaged and lessen the chance of burnout.
Give Back
Though Jeter’s baseball career is coming to a close, he isn’t going to be spending his days lounging on the couch, munching Cheetos. Through his Turn 2 Foundation, Jeter will continue to do great things off the field, helping children learn how to live healthy lifestyles.
Giving back is a great way to make the world a better place and gain a personal sense of fulfillment. Starting a nonprofit isn’t the only way you can give back. Volunteering or mentoring a young professional can be just as rewarding.
Don’t Give Up
Jeter’s real legacy may be the effort he put into every moment of every game. Watching him play, you couldn’t tell the difference between the first play of the game and the bottom of the ninth. That sort of drive is what entrepreneurs need to make their businesses successful.
Even when people doubted him, it only inspired Jeter to work harder. He said it made him want to prove them wrong. Adapting that attitude to your business efforts can help you become a winner, at work and in life.
Erin Palmer is a writer and editor with a deep respect for hard workers everywhere. Her work has appeared in numerous publications and websites, including The Chicago Tribune and The Huffington Post.
