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"Tech Tips from Oh Pawlak" is a monthly column that deals with the every day dilemmas that Paintball players face. Oh is a member of Bob Long's Ironmen and the owner of Predator Marketing and Paintball Sam's in Sacramento, California. Oh can be reached at Ohthepro1@aol.com

Keys to Success

The evolution of competitive Paintball has taken the sport from the simple task of signing up and playing, to arriving prior to the event with the idea of "walking" and practicing the fields. Each team has developed their own style and skill to play this game. In addition to the "Star Wars" like gear, every team now has a "plan." What separates the haves from the have-nots? Why do the same teams always seem to be successful? Some nay-sayers would have you believe that experience is the key which will open the door of success, but I disagree. Success is not an orphan, but rather one of many children in a complex, diverse family.

(Editors note: Oh have you been taking writing classes?) If experience made all winners, wouldn't all old players be winners. How do we join this exclusive family? Here is my two minute drill on finding and achieving success in the Paintball arena.  The first step of this deliberate journey begins with a map. You must develop a plan. Some people will try to sell you on the idea that a winning attitude is the first step that will carry you away to some Utopia of success, but once again I disagree. A winning attitude falls into the mix, but it is not the driving force. No matter how many self-motivating chants you scream, you'll never succeed without a plan. A well thought out plan is such a directional tool on the road to success.

Secondly, make sure your plan draws its strength from the human spirt without forgetting our weaknesses. Be fair but not foolish. Be firm in resolve, but don't forget to adapt to necessary changes. Be brave enough to acknowledge your own weakness.

Our limitations are not final. We can grow beyond what was given to us at birth. Your plan should begin at the beginning: What is it that you seek or where do you want to go?

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