https://psu.voicethread.

com/myvoice/thread/26412279
Trust The Process
I believe in trusting the process, unwaveringly, until the desired result is accomplished.
I’ve learned the value of patience and perseverance in a society fixated on instantaneous
results.

As a massive Philadelphia 76ers fan, the catchphrase “Trust the Process” has been
ingrained into me since childhood when Sam Hinkie, the general manager, began the
decades-long process. Even star 76er and the league’s reigning MVP, integrated it into
his career, announced as Joel “The Process” Embiid. As the Sixers have tried to find
their way to an NBA Title, I’ve mirrored this philosophy, embracing a long-term
perspective towards success in life.

Just as the Sixers tanked with the worst record in the league and sought time and time
again to make it to the NBA Finals, I worked my hardest to make the softball team. I
endured short-term setbacks to achieve a long-term goal.

In my freshman year of high school, basketball season ended without making playoffs.
Uncertain about making my softball team, who had recently made it to State’s, I
dedicated myself and transitioned seamlessly from basketball to softball open gyms.

I worked as hard as possible, running straight from basketball to softball, emphasizing

my work ethic and skills. During tryouts, I ran one of the quickest miles and easily
passed the plank test. My confidence grew about making the team.

When the rosters came out at 5:00 on a Wednesday morning, my number wasn’t on the
list. My eyes slowly blurred the roster letters. I stood there in my kitchen, trying to put
myself together, questioning why I worked so hard, just to fail at the end.

Turning disappointment into opportunity, I sought feedback from my coaches leading to

an unexpected role as team manager.

He mentioned his respect for my work ethic and positive mindset, even if I didn’t
currently have the necessary skills for the team.While I was disappointed, I spun it into
a positive and was determined to be the best manager. Ironically, the season ended
before any games were played because of COVID.

I played just as many games as everyone who had made the team did our freshman year.

That summer, I dedicated the summer to backyard drills, hitting lessons and
weightlifting. Focused on making the team sophomore year, I utilized this unexpected
free time to my advantage. Setting up a hitting net, I loaded countless buckets of
softballs onto the tee, refining my form. Having a catch and integrating infield and
outfield drills became a routine. This led to visible improvement. When the rosters were
released that year, my bib number was on there.

I was proud I trusted the process in the offseason. I had embraced being cut with a
positive mindset, anxious for my hard work to create fulfilling results.

“Trust the Process” started as a catchphrase created by frustrated Philadelphia fans, but
it’s become a personal rally cry. In the end, the process shapes and defines me, and
hopefully results in whatever “championship” I’m presently working towards.