Success Lessons From Baseball - Enthusiasm and Excitement Can Make The Difference
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Self Improvement -> subcategory Success.
Success Lessons from Baseball: How Enthusiasm and Excitement Make the Difference
Summary
The qualities that lead to success in baseball can also drive success in business and other areas. Frank Bettger, a former baseball player, exemplifies this through his inspiring journey. His books remain a valuable source of motivation, detailing the success lessons he learned on the field and later applied to the business world.
Enthusiasm: The Game Changer
About 35 years ago, I read two impactful books by Frank Bettger on how enthusiasm shaped his life. His most renowned work, "How I Raised Myself from Failure to Success in Selling," continues to be a treasure trove of insights.
Early Struggles and a Turning Point
In 1907, Bettger played baseball in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, earning $175 a month. Despite his ambitions, he was dismissed not for lack of talent but for a perceived lack of energy while trying to manage his nerves. His manager advised him to inject more life and enthusiasm into his work.
Moving to Chester, Pennsylvania, Bettger played for just $25 a month, a discouraging amount. Still, he decided to "act enthusiastic" even if he didn't feel it. His commitment soon led to a trial in New Haven, Connecticut, where he aimed to establish himself as a player full of vigor.
Enthusiasm in Action
On the field, Bettger transformed. He played as if driven by a million batteries, and his newfound enthusiasm energized his teammates, improving their performance. The New Haven newspaper took notice, marking him as a standout player, and he soon saw his income jump to $185 a month?"a remarkable 700% increase. Importantly, Bettger emphasized that his success came not from improved skills but purely from his newfound enthusiasm.
From Baseball to Business
A subsequent injury ended his baseball career, leading him to the world of life insurance sales. Initially failing, Bettger attended a public speaking course by Dale Carnegie, who emphasized enthusiasm. Remembering his baseball years, Bettger decided to channel the same energy into sales.
During a critical sales pitch, Bettger's excitement captured his client's interest, resulting in a successful sale. This reinforced his belief: acting enthusiastic eventually leads to feeling enthusiastic. Bettger became a top salesman, motivating countless others to live passionately.
The Power of Enthusiasm
An enthusiastic salesperson often outperforms a more knowledgeable but less enthusiastic peer. Enthusiasm attracts and inspires others, prompting them to exceed their own expectations. Bettger believed in generating enthusiasm by purposefully acting the part and regularly reflecting on inspiring quotes.
Walter Chrysler’s words particularly inspired Bettger. When asked about the secret to success, Chrysler highlighted qualities like 'ability, capacity, and energy,' but stressed that real success lies in 'enthusiasm' and 'excitement.' Chrysler noted that excitement was key to engaging customers and driving business.
Unleashing Your Inner Enthusiasm
Embracing enthusiasm can transform mundane activities into engaging challenges. By fostering excitement, we can enhance our skills and inspire those around us. The ripple effect of enthusiasm can propel us into the 'major leagues' of our pursuits, bringing more friends, joy, and opportunities.
Enthusiasm isn't just a feeling; it's a catalyst for success that can elevate our lives and the lives of others. Let’s harness this energy and watch as it leads us to greater heights.
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