It seems like things are moving too fast in some areas of my life and too slow in others. Honesty, I am not ready for the 2023 tennis season. Apparently, I am not the only one as my current favorite tennis player, Rafael Nadal, is continuing to play poorly. It always amazes me how someone as brilliant as Nadal can step onto the tennis court with low levels of confidence.
The Cycle Of Confidence In Life
I am kidding of course. As a professional who had to express confidence every day I went to work, I can totally relate to how Nadal feels about confidence. It may have nothing to do with tennis and everything to do with the recent change in his life. Being a parent, although the ultimate experience in life, is also demanding and leaves one with doubts. Will I be a good parent? The thing I came to realize as a physician, try as you might, you cannot separate your career from your personal life.
Embed from Getty ImagesWe Do Not Live Our Lives In A Vacuum
As much as I would like to completely separate my personal life from my professional life, what went on in my personal life impacted my professional life. Thankfully I was always able to maintain a high standard professionally, but it came with a physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual cost. Folks, every aspect of our lives is interconnected. To think otherwise is delusional or a state of denial. Thus, I can only imagine how fatherhood is impacting Nadal.
Rafael Nadal May End His Career In The 2023 Tennis Season
Every athlete wants to leave on his or her own terms. Sometimes pride keeps them trying longer than is good for them professionally or personally. Yet, Nadal has nothing to prove. Yes, he may never have won an ATP Finals title, but I would almost guarantee that no other player will win as many French Open titles as he did. Therefore, he can walk away with his head held high and be at peace with leaving the sport. In any event, we know Nadal will ultimately be the one to decide when he leaves.
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