Pickleball - part sport, part social hour - is more than just a game. It’s a masterclass in mindfulness, if you pay attention. And, let’s face it, paying attention to the present moment is the key to the game. Whether you're executing a well-placed shot or making decisions that align with your values, the lessons on the pickleball court have profound applications off the court.
Keep Your Eye on the Ball, Y’all! - My favorite coach, Jeff, always reminds us: “Keep your eye on the ball, y’all!”Simple advice, but profoundly true—both in pickleball and in life. The second I let my focus drift to the last mistake, what I should have done, or what’s coming next, I miss the shot right in front of me, sometimes even missing the ball entirely. Mindfulness is the same. It teaches us to be where we are, paying attention to what matters in this moment. The past is done, and the future isn’t here yet. The only moment that counts? The one we’re in right now.
Patience: The Power of the Pause - Patience is one of the most underrated skills in the game. While pickleball can be fast-paced, I’m learning that strategic patience can be the difference between winning a point and making an error. We have more time than we think. The best players I’ve seen wait for the right moment, letting the ball come to them, letting it bounce if needed, and tracking the ball with awareness. Mindfulness is the same. Instead of reacting impulsively - whether it's to a stressful email or a uncomfortable conversation- we practice pausing. Our automatic reactions transform into purposeful responses.
Don’t Get Stuck in No Man’s Land - There’s a spot in pickleball between the baseline and the kitchen where you’re vulnerable. I know it well. We all pass through it—it’s part of the game. No man’s land isn’t necessarily bad, it’s the space every player moves through at some point. We move through it when we transition. We move through it to take control of the kitchen line. We move through it to return a deep shop. The key? Don’t linger. If we do, it can be an in between spot that traps us, keeps us off-balance, and prevents us from playing our best. The same applies in life. We all experience in-between moments - uncertain times when we’re weighing a decision, figuring out our next step, or waiting for clarity. These moments are natural, even necessary. But if we stay stuck too long, hesitation becomes our default, and we lose the chance to shape what happens next. Mindfulness helps us recognize these transition spaces for what they are - temporary. It gives us the clarity to assess where we are, the courage to step forward when the time is right, and the trust that even if we make the wrong move, we can adjust.
Communicate with Your Partner – Every pickleball player knows the frustration of a well-placed shot dropping in the middle, unreturned—not because it couldn’t be reached, but because no one called it. A successful doubles team communicates - calling shots, setting each other up, and offering encouragement. It’s about calling “Mine,” “Yours,” “Out,” “Bounce it” - and more. Communication in pickleball isn’t just about who takes the ball - it’s about working together, anticipating moves, and knowing when to ask for help or offer support. Clear communication in life is no different. Whether it’s with a partner, family member, friend, or coworker, speaking with intention and listening with presence strengthens relationships. Mindfulness teaches us that connection isn’t just about being heard—it’s about building trust.
Your Energy Shapes the Game - Pickleball, like life, is full of highs and lows. One day, you’re hitting every shot with precision; the next, you can’t seem to get a serve in. The key isn’t just how we play—it’s how we show up. A unpleasant attitude is contagious—but so is a pleasant one. Ever played with someone whose energy lifted the whole game? Or someone who turned a friendly match into an unintentional stress test? My favorite partners – and my favorite people - bring presence, patience, playfulness, and kindness, no matter the outcome. I strive to be one of those people. Mindfulness reminds us that neither victory nor defeat define us. When we celebrate the highs without ego and accept the lows without self-judgment, we cultivate resilience and grace. And whether we win or lose, the energy we bring affects everyone around us—on and off the court.
It’s Not Over Until It’s Over - Momentum shifts are real. You can be down 10-1 and rally back to win. It’s one of the most exciting parts of pickleball - just when you think the match is slipping away, one well-placed shot, one moment of renewed focus, can turn everything around. Life works the same way. We all face moments where we feel behind, discouraged, or ready to throw in the towel. Just like in pickleball, momentum can shift in an instant. Mindfulness teaches us about impermanence—the truth that everything is always changing. The frustration of a bad game, the disappointment of a missed opportunity, the feeling of being stuck—none of it is permanent. Instead of getting caught up in frustration or self-doubt, mindfulness creates space for something to change—a new opportunity, a fresh perspective, or a chance to regroup and try again. Every point, every moment, is an opportunity to reset, and reengage.
Stop Apologizing - Many pickleball players, including myself, have a reflexive “sorry” after every missed shot. Why? Because I feel guilty – like I’m letting my partner down. But, I’m working on choosing other words. “Thanks for covering me.” That shows my partner I’m appreciative. “I’m learning from that—I’ll make adjustments next time.” That shows I have a learning mindset. Just like in pickleball, we don’t need to apologize for being imperfect in life. Mindfulness teaches us to reframe our words with gratitude, confidence, and presence and to minimize the automatic blurting out of “I’m sorry.” Shifting away from “I’m sorry” isn’t about avoiding accountability—it’s about engaging more openly, letting go of unnecessary blame, and communicating with intention. choosing words that reflect gratitude, confidence, and presence. Mindfully reframing our language helps us engage with others more openly, acknowledge moments without unnecessary self-blame, and communicate with greater intention.
Serving up the Final Shot – I can go on and on with this. But, I’ll end with this.. Pickleball isn’t just a sport; it’s a mindfulness practice in disguise. It teaches us to be patient, adapt, communicate, let go of mistakes, and stay present. The next time you step onto the court, see it as more than just a game. It’s an opportunity to practice mindfulness—one shot at a time. Grab your paddle, take a deep breath, and let the games (and mindfulness) begin!
What I’m Loving Right Now – my pickleball community... the people who show up, play hard, and create an environment that’s not just about the game, but about connection and support. A huge shoutout to the leaders, support staff, and players at the Jean Shephard Center in Hammond - this is my community, and I deeply appreciate the energy and dedication that has breathed life back into a building that was once underused. Jean Shephard was the first place where I truly felt a sense of belonging on the courts—where competition and camaraderie blend seamlessly, and where I found my footing not just as a player, but as part of something bigger. The friendships I have made here are hard to beat! I also want to recognize the leaders, support staff, and players at the Maria Reiner Center in Hobart, among the most welcoming people I’ve ever met. What makes this group even more special is their generosity - funds raised from pickleball at Maria Reiner go right back into the community, supporting local initiatives and making a difference beyond the court. It’s a beautiful reminder that pickleball isn’t just about playing—it’s about connecting and community.
Mindful Shift Invitation - Take a moment to appreciate the communities you belong to. Who are the people that make you feel welcome, supported, and part of something bigger? Maybe it’s your pickleball crew, your colleagues, your family, or a group of friends who just get you. These are the spaces where you can show up as yourself, where laughter, encouragement, and shared experiences create a sense of belonging. This month, challenge yourself to be that welcoming presence for someone else. Maybe it’s simply making space for someone to be seen and heard. Small gestures can have a big impact.
Leavin’ You with a Quote - "Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." — Leo Buscaglia
Until our next breath together,
Lisa
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