Having Trouble With Patience?

No one emphasizes the importance of patience quite like Gary Vaynerchuk. He’s built an empire on advocating for hard work, self-awareness, and, perhaps most importantly, patience.

Gary Vee often speaks about how many young people today don’t fully grasp just how much time they actually have. In the fast-paced, social media-driven world we live in, it's all too easy to fall into the trap of comparison. Every time we scroll through Instagram or TikTok, we’re met with a curated version of everyone’s life—only the best moments, the most polished achievements, the things that look perfect on the surface. This can quickly lead to feelings of inadequacy or a sense that we’re somehow falling behind. We see others succeeding, getting ahead, and think, “Why aren’t I there yet?”

But Gary’s message couldn’t be clearer: "The number one thing holding many ambitious people back in their careers... is lack of patience. What I wish more people understood is that patience doesn’t compromise ambition - in fact, it actually enhances the likelihood that you’ll get to where you need to go. Your ambition should push you to play the game and strive for more without losing sleep or sacrificing your well-being."

This perspective is invaluable, and it’s not just limited to the business world. Gary’s words ring just as true for athletes. It’s easy to get discouraged when things aren’t moving as fast as we want them to. Maybe you haven’t hit that growth spurt yet, and you’re watching others around you develop physically, making progress at what feels like a faster pace. But be patient—you have time. You might not have made the team you’ve been training for, and it feels like a major setback. But be patient—you have time. You might be struggling with a skill, like that elusive slider you’ve been working on all offseason, and you feel frustrated that it’s just not coming together. But once again, be patient—you have time.

Gary emphasizes the importance of the "long game." He’s a firm believer that real success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about consistently putting in the work over time, not looking for shortcuts or quick fixes. In his eyes, focusing on the long-term is the key to sustained growth. It’s easy to be lured by the idea of instant success—everyone wants to be the next viral sensation or have their moment of recognition. But that’s not the goal. In the end, those fleeting moments of viral fame are often just that—fleeting. What truly matters is the steady, consistent effort you put in over time.

If you’re an athlete, this means focusing on the things that truly matter: your character, your relationships, your improvement. Instead of chasing immediate results, focus on the process. Ask yourself how you can impact your teammates in a positive way. Are you lifting them up, encouraging them, and working together to achieve a shared goal? How can you make yourself better, even in small ways, each day? These are the things that build a foundation for success.

By staying patient and putting in the effort, you'll not only improve as an athlete, but you’ll also forge real connections with people who appreciate your dedication and work ethic. Over time, this will lead to true friendships that will last far beyond your playing days. And perhaps even more importantly, the discipline you cultivate through this process will help you excel in any future career you choose. The lessons learned through perseverance, patience, and hard work are universal—they don’t just stay confined to the field or court.

Gary’s message is clear: if you stick with the work, maintain your ambition, and stay patient, you will become excellent. The road to success might take longer than you’d like, but in the end, it will be the patience, persistence, and consistency that make all the difference. Remember, the best things in life aren’t rushed. And when you finally get to where you want to go, the journey will have made you not just successful, but truly great.

Thank you for checking out this edition of the Big League Perspective Newsletter! Be sure to share with a friend, teammate, or kid who may benefit! We’ll talk soon! In the meantime, be sure to connect on social media @billythebatboy. 🙌