Lessons from the Williams Sisters
I love tennis. Took lessons until my knees refused to make lateral movements. Like many I was pleased when the Williams sisters broke on to the professional circuit. Like many sports women have had episodic notoriety and these two young women made people take notice. Certainly as young African-American girls, they showed other that looked like them that tennis was a possibility no matter where you grow up. They made fashion statements (not always met with approval) and proved their father right on more than one occasion. They have dominated the sport for years and will certain be known for some firsts. As their father predicted, his girls have met more than one time in major tournament finals. But that is not what I learned from them.
When they lose they move on. Okay so Serena has had a few tantrums but in general when they lose they handle it with dignity and just move forward. That’s the first lesson. The second is that both ladies have diversified into other areas. They know that they won’t be playing tennis forever. Clothing lines, accessories lines , product development all there for the time when tennis becomes something they do just to keep fit. My compliment to their parents, church and community for helping them be so grounded. Serena likes doing nails and has enrolled in a school to get the cosmetology certification to work in a salon. The point is they have other interests and they pursue them. Does money and fame help? Sure. That doesn’t mean that you can’t do the same.
Operate heavy equipment for a living but would rather bake, why the heck not? What do you think?
Posted on July 23, 2011, in Moving Forward and tagged African-Americans, cosetology, fame, heavy equipment, money, nail salon, Serena Williams, tennis, Venus Williams. Bookmark the permalink. 8 Comments.
Yes, do what you love. Somehow the money does follow. I have friends who cooked up great Italian sauces and sold it in a local market up in Gray Eagle, CA., it took off so fast they had a big decision to make: expand or shut down! They decided to shut down and move. . .point is. . .it worked:-) We’re never too old to learn!!
Exactly, there is hope!
It is really true, having a passion for what you want in life and working toward it can change your life.
alas most of us are not raised or trained to do this. It is so hard to put aside the guilt, fear, anxiety in order to do what our heart wants. I’m thinking out loud.
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