…with Gary Moss

Becoming a great scrabble player is not different than becoming great at anything else. Remember hearing someone tell you, “If at first you don’t succeed . . . try, try, again”. That’s what it takes to become a master. Or did you think that Tiger Woods was an instant champion when he first picked up a golf club; maybe you think that Dr. Seuss sold his first manuscript; and what’s your take on the space program at NASA?

To become the best at anything we have to pay our dues with sweat, energy, trial and error, practice, spaced repetition, exercise, regimen, ‘stick-to-it-ivness’, passion, belief-in-self, and more. With anything less than that, you may be good, but you’ll most likely never be the name on everybody’s lips. We rarely witness the hard work and sacrifice of our celebrity heros. We only notice them when they receive their trophies and awards at the end of a competition.

Most of us are not devoted enough to be the best. We only want to be better. The price is less, but the road to becoming better is lined with the same tools used by our idols.

A True Story. A scrabble player from the ‘kitchen table circuit’ was unbeatable at home. He loved the game and figured that he could join a club and fit right in. The club players welcomed him with open arms and helped make him feel accepted. But when the first game began, everyone put on their competitive hats and there was no mercy. Club players were gracious to kindly pointed out things the newbie needed to know about scoring and the clock and challenges. But they played the games by the rules and expected the same from others. The new player made a few nice plays but was beaten soundly. After each game, seasoned players generously shared their critique of the game. Our newbie was feeling disappointed in his performance and a bit embarrassed receiving pointers from the advanced players. So he turned his attention to one of the weakest links in the club, asking for her advice. I guess he identified with the weaker player and felt less threatened.
I’ve seen this occur more than once. I don’t understand it. If I have a car problem, I want the BEST mechanic. If I need a loan, I want the BEST banker. If I want to become a better scrabble player, I want an EXPERT to teach me.

If and when you chose to become a better scrabble player, I am ready to help you.