The beginning of a new year is a good time to review the basics. At my church the pastor takes the first two Sundays of each year to restate the purpose and vision of the church. Fitness clubs and diet plans often base their marketing on people’s desire to return to the basics and embrace new habits.

Legendary football coach Vince Lombardi began every training camp with the words, “Gentlemen, this is a football.”

“This pattern of focusing on the basics has been a hallmark of many successful coaches. (For example, basketball legends John Wooden and Phil Jackson were known for having a similar obsession with the fundamentals. Wooden even went so far as to teach his players how to put on their socks and tie their shoes.)

However, it is not just football and basketball where this strategy is useful. Throughout our lives, a focus on the fundamentals is what determines our results.”

James Clear, author of “Atomic Habits”

Okay. Some basics…

A listener can think one of two things about your station.

“They are like me.” (subconscious: “I want to be with them.”)

“They are not like me.” (subconscious: “I don’t want to be with them.”)

More basics on next week’s show. That’s a tease, don’tcha know.