Dykstra: Refining Your Stock-Picking

Smart players don't take anything for granted. They never put it on autopilot and just punch a time clock. Winners want to keep winning and trying to improve all the time.

In my playing days, I would constantly analyze my mechanics. I wanted to make sure I was doing things the way I was supposed to and that I hadn't fallen into any bad habits. I would check to make sure I was shifting my weight correctly during my swing or getting the right jump off of first base when trying to swipe second. I wanted to make sure I was playing smart and paying attention to the count at all times.

The goal was easy: I wanted to be aware of any flaws in my approach so that I could tighten up parts of my game that may have gotten off track. Cuts and base-stealing I could correct if my physical mechanics were off. Keeping my head in the game was just a matter of focus. I prided myself on the fact that I always knew the situation.

After all, I was playing for real money -- money I would use to support my family. When it comes to money, there is no kidding around. I take money very, very seriously. So while I love the game of baseball, I also knew where my bread was buttered and I wanted to be the best I could be. I also wanted to be a good earner for my family.

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