After years of pushing my body with tennis matches and thrilling (but brutal) downhill ski runs, I found myself searching for a sport that could offer a bit more forgiveness. That is when I discovered Pickleball.
With all the buzz about how it’s a sport for people of all ages and abilities, it seemed like the perfect fit.
Imagine my surprise then when I had my worst sports accident ever on a Pickleball court. Hitting the metal pole with my face helped me realize that no matter how easy something is supposed to be, there are always risks when you put yourself out there.
And yet, even with that mishap, I love Pickleball – not just for the physical fun but for the unexpected life and business lessons it teaches me. Here are three lessons Pickleball has gifted me that apply far beyond the court:
1. It’s More Fun to Play with People Than to Play Alone
In singles, you control every shot and do not have to rely on anyone else’s judgment. That sounds great… until you realize how much more exhausting and limited it can be. In Pickleball, there is a partnership, a shared strategy, and an opportunity to do something bigger together.
The same is true in business. Sure, working alone means you get to call all the shots, but it also means you shoulder all the burden. Collaboration, while sometimes messy, usually leads to creative solutions, faster progress, and more joy. Success is sweeter when shared.
2. Don’t Try to Return Every Shot
When you’re first learning Pickleball, there is an instinct to lunge at every ball and return anything that comes your way. My photo is proof of that. But sometimes, the smarter move is to let the ball go and live to fight another point. Chasing every opportunity – or every challenge – can lead to burnout and bad decisions.
In business, it’s tempting to jump on every opportunity, say yes to every project, or respond to every competitor’s move. But wisdom often lies in choosing your battles. Sometimes the best response is a smile, a “Great shot,” and the confidence to know your moment to shine is coming.
3. Don’t Be Intimidated by ‘Surface Appearances’
Often, the best-dressed player is not the best-performing one. On the Pickleball court, flashy new paddles and coordinated outfits might turn heads, but they do not guarantee skill. Some of the scrappiest, least flashy players are the ones who dominate.
The same principle applies in business. Titles, logos, fancy offices, and buzzwords can create an impressive façade. But true leadership and competence reveal themselves over time, not at first glance. Do not be distracted or discouraged by surface appearances.
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As I get older, I have realized that life lessons don’t always come from books, conferences, or mentors. Sometimes they come when you’re running after a little plastic ball with holes in it, trying to laugh at your mistakes. Whether it’s on the court, in the boardroom, or somewhere in between, I am learning to embrace new experiences, find humor in life, and keep my heart open to whatever lessons show up next. I hope you will join me…