The execution resolution

THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011

Part of the problem with getting better is making the time. Use the new year as a time to commit to an ongoing regime that will improve your game.

Many people use the new year as a time to make changes. The 'new year's resolution' often doesn't last, and is just a line to feed to someone who asks you what your resolution is. Genuine progress, however, is only made with genuine effort.

So if you decide that you want to get better at a particular skill, then think about what it takes.

For starters, you'll need more than just 'fad' attention for a day or a week to see improvement. It takes regular, sustained practice. Additionally, you need a good understanding of skill progression. There's no use working on step-back jumpshots if your shooting technique is busted. Finally, you'll need a way to measure your improvement. I see no point in practice if there's no goal or destination. So I'll explain these more fully:

Whether you're working on passing, shooting or your 360 dunks, you need to allocate regular time each week to devote to it, just like regular practice. It might mean getting to practice 15 minutes earlier (and not shooting half-court shots!), or working for 10 minutes right before breakfast or after dinner. Whatever the skill, lock some time into the schedule and treat it like anything that HAS to be done.

The second element is skill progression. If the skill you need to improve is dribbling, then start from the most basic element. If you find that you're good enough at one, then move onto the next. The dribbling progression would look something like this:
1: Defensive dribble - sideways shuffle, bouncing the ball in the back hand, protecting the ball with the front hand
2: Straight line dribbling (preferred hand)
3: Straight line dribbling (other hand)
4: Cross-over dribble
5: Other direction changes (between legs, around back, in&out etc)
Don't start spending too much time on things further down the list until you master the basic elements.

The final element is measureability. Score-keeping and timing are ways to measure results. Having scores or times will enable you to chart progress over time, and will also provide motivation. For example, time how long it takes to dribble the entire length of the court and back. As you get better, your time will improve. For change of direction, set up an obstacle course (chairs, bags, bins, etc) and time your progress through them. Same goes for whatever skill your're trying to improve.

So in 2011, make a promise to yourself to make a GENUINE commitment. Daily attention to your skill, even if only for five minutes, will show results if you refine your practice and chart your progress. Make a plan, and execute it! GET IT DONE!