Self-Improvement Away From the Field

The life of a pro sportsman is one that is hard to properly articulate. It has such a broad definition and trying to narrow it down, would take all day. But still, it is a dream that very few athletes ever get to experience, regardless of how talented they might be. These guys/ladies pretty much live life in a bubble -where all their wants and needs are catered for endlessly. While they bask in this sweet life of comfort and unlimited privilege, many of them really do believe that it will last forever.

When athletes enter the world of professional sports at a fairly young age, nobody and nothing prepares them for the burst . They also aren't prepared for having to return to the real world to be with the rest of society, once their careers are done. It is a guarantee that the bubble will burst and the game will be taken away from them, one way or another. It is just a matter of when. That sheltered life is a gift and a curse because these men and women are treated like children who are only told to focus on the game. Nothing else! They are conditioned from a young age- to only have tunnel vision and not worry about developing their functioning skills for being adults. That's why you get so many athletes who do not know how to pay bills or file their taxes. Those are adult responsibilities which everybody needs to know. Am I lying?

Locking in and being focused solely on the sport is all well and good, but it also has a downside to it. This is always evident when players approach retirement. There is almost a state of panic from them that "Oh no!", "This gravy-train is coming to an end." Nobody ever loves to discuss the bubble burst because with it-comes depression and sadness felt by these individuals. Suddenly one is lacking purpose and the harsh reality of walking around in a space where society doesn't care how fast one can run, jump, kick or throw a ball, sinks into their psyche. None of it matters anymore and that realization is the bitter end to what was a sweet ride. Once it's gone, it's gone forever. Players retiring with no skills away from the field, is usually the main cause of this dark place. Skills off-the-pitch are what help former players function within society and enable them to trade that skill for monetary value.

Players who plan for their post playing careers, while active as professionals-are the ones who hardly struggle when their careers end. Planning for that second career could include learning skills through education and self-development courses, just to name a few. Some men/women enroll in University classes during their off-season periods. Shaquille O'neal achieved his Masters Degree while playing in the NBA. Vince Carter as well. Killian Mbape completed his undergraduate degree while playing in the Champions League for AS Monaco. My point is, if these guys can get it done, while playing at the pinnacle of their careers, there are no excuses for any player out there! Self-development should be a priority for athletes.

However, it is understandable that university education might not be for everybody. That's OK! Online courses have become a popular option among professional athletes because of their schedule flexibility and remote learning possibilities. The internet has really created an outlet for everyone to attain some form of education. Digital marketing has become a skill that is high in demand, simply because learners are able to learn tech and online marketing skills from this qualification. Learners are then able to use these relevant technological and marketing skills in today's job market.

Digital Marketing books are also available on Amazon and can be purchased as e-books or paperback copies by interested learners. Below, are Digital Marketing books that I recommend for Athletes.

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-By: Khangelani Zila Mbekela

Sports Agent & Writer