Perception is defined as the ability to see, hear or become aware of something through the senses.
In sports, perception can be misleading. Some consider Lebron James the greatest basketball player ever. That is your respected opinion. He has four NBA championships, four Finals MVPs and is an 18-time all-star. But look at the other side. It has taken him nearly 20 years to accomplish that. Bill Russell would be a better choice of greatest NBA player ever. He had 11 NBA titles in 13 years with one team and was a 12-time all-star. I’m pretty sure he has a Presidential Medal of Freedom, too. Now I understand these athletes did not become successful all by themselves, but there are those who think otherwise.
Is Tom Brady the greatest? He was drafted in the sixth round at pick 199th and turned one of, if not the greatest quarterbacks of all time. In this case, perception played a role. Because his college career was subpar, he was perceived as just another late-round quarterback. In turn, he proved his value and worth.
One final defining example of perception is that one is viewed as high-class and “above the rest” due to association with talented athletes. When the truth is, they are clinging to the athlete’s coattails or better stated, shoestrings to make themselves appear valuable. Guess what? You’re not, no matter how coy and vulgar you are. I’m not sorry to say the truth hurts, and no one is impressed. You may think you are renowned because you choose to depreciate others, but in reality, your perception of who you are is appalling to the masses.
