Mr. "H" Urges Students Towards the Zone

It's official! In The Zone is in the house!

Today Mr. "H" introduced the entire student body to a tool that students, teachers, and parents can use to maximize their growth, productivity, and performance. "In the Zone" is a method Mr. "H" has employed extensively in his many years of teaching and coaching tennis.

All Mr. "H" asks is that every student commit to becoming more aware of where they are in the scheme of the "Zone" as they face challenges, and try to cope appropriately.



If you are "Tanking" you have simply given up before you even tried. Your fears and low confidence kept you from stepping up to the challenge, whatever it was. At this point it might be good to get some perspective on the source of your fear. Seek advice, support, and clarification. You deserve it. Then try a fresh start.

If you are in "Anger" you have been overwhelmed by frustration. There is no point in beating your head against the wall. Take a break. Do something you will like better, or feel more confident with. Then, when your anger has subsided, try the challenge again.

If you are "Choking" you have momentarily dropped the ball due to pressure. But pressure is a good thing that can call up our best effort, as well as creativity and new angles. You came to play, and did so, even if you were not entirely successful. Ultimately, you will need to show renewed commitment. When you choke, just admit it and move on. We all make mistakes. Our best moment may follow.

The "Zone" is where we all want to be, and where we hope most of our students will be frequently by the end of the school year. When you are in the zone you are prepared and confident, even hungry for challenge. This is when you at the top of your game. When in the zone in class you produce exemplary work -- and then seek extra credit. Or, you might help a classmate, taking your zone to a whole different level.


Experiment with this at home, work and school. Pay each other respect for trying to be "In The Zone."