Your Best Year Yet Starts Now

It’s that time of the year again and the start of a new school year brings a clean slate. This is a chance to set fresh goals, build better routines, and raise the bar in both academics and athletics. For student athletes, this balancing act can feel like a sport of its own. But just like in competition, the right habits can set you apart.

Some of our student athletes here in Texas returned to school last week while other POLARIS athletes throughout the country are returning this week, the following, and even September 4th for our families in New York. 

As an educator of sorts, my internal calendar also uses this time of year as a natural reset and with that I’ve been utilizing the changing of the seasons to set new goals and build routines for the upcoming marathon season in Texas. Looking ahead to the winter and spring months, I’m personally setting goals and have begun my base training block which equates to a whole lot of of time listening to audible.

One of my current listenings is that of Stephen R. Covey’s timeless framework from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People which offers a powerful blueprint for success. So much of Covey’s framework is applicable for student athletes and has had me thinking that I need to get a blog post together. Here’s how high school student athletes can apply these principles to training, academics, and life this upcoming school year.

Private Victory (focus on self-mastery)

1. Be Proactive

Take ownership of your success from day one. Show up early to practice, schedule study time, and do not wait for someone to remind you about deadlines or workouts. Champions are not reactive; they set the tone.

POLARIS Tip: Identify one area in both your sport and academics where you tend to wait for direction. Take the lead this week, whether it is initiating a study group, asking a coach for extra drills, or mapping out your own training plan.

2. Begin with the End in Mind

Define what winning looks like for you this year. Is it earning a varsity spot? Improving your GPA? Committing to a college program? Write down your goals and keep them visible on your locker, desk, or phone.

POLARIS Tip: Write down your top three goals for the school year, one athletic, one academic, and one personal. Keep them where you will see them daily and check your progress every Sunday.

3. Put First Things First

Time is your most valuable resource. Prioritize your health, training, and academics over distractions. Get the big things done first so you are not scrambling later.

POLARIS Tip: Before the week starts, list your top three priorities and slot them into your calendar. Say no to activities that pull time and energy away from what matters most.

Public Victory (build strong relationships & teamwork)

4. Think Win-Win 

Approach teammates, classmates, and coaches with the mindset that everyone can succeed. A rising tide lifts all boats. Your encouragement and collaboration make the whole team and your support network stronger.

POLARIS Tip: Look for one way each week to create a positive outcome for both you and someone else. This might be sharing training resources, swapping notes, or encouraging a teammate who is struggling.

5. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

Listen actively, whether it is a coach explaining a drill or a teacher outlining a project. When you fully understand expectations, your response will be more effective and respected.

POLARIS Tip: In your next conversation with a coach or teacher, repeat back what you have heard to confirm you understand. This simple habit builds trust and prevents misunderstandings.

6. Synergize

Success in sports and school is a team effort. Collaborate on group projects, pair up for study sessions, and lean on each other’s strengths. You will achieve more together than you can alone.

POLARIS Tip: Pair up with a teammate or classmate whose strengths complement yours. Work together toward a shared goal, whether it is a project deadline or improving a specific skill in your sport.

Renewal (sustain & grow effectiveness)

7. Sharpen the Saw

This year, commit to renewal. Train your body with smart workouts, fuel it with proper nutrition, and recover with sleep. Keep your mind sharp with reading and learning, nurture relationships, and find time to recharge mentally.

POLARIS Tip: Schedule recovery like a practice. Block time for sleep, stretching, mental reset activities, and quality time with friends or family. Treat renewal as non-negotiable.

Your Playbook for the Year

The habits you build in August and September will carry you through the school year and beyond. Start now. Commit to these habits, and you will be setting yourself up for a strong year and for long-term success in your sport(s), academics, and life.

Remember that success doesn’t come from talent alone; it’s built daily through intentional habits and consistent effort. Whether you're chasing championships, college dreams, or personal bests, these seven habits offer a reliable game plan for growth. Use this fresh start to take ownership, stay focused, and support those around you. The habits you build today lead to limitless outcomes. So lace up, lock in, and lead with purpose. Your best year yet starts now!

Let’s chat if you’d like to further connect with us!