What do Freddy Adu, Ryan Leaf and Adel Taarabt have in common? And what do they have to do with romance?
Freddy Adu was touted as “the next Pele” of soccer. He signed a professional contract at 14 and became the youngest player to appear and score in an MLS game.
Ryan Leaf was drafted number 2 in the 1998 football draft. Many thought he should have been drafted ahead of Hall of Fame quarterback, Peyton Manning.
Adel Tarrabt had extraordinary technical soccer skills. “Tremendous on the ball.” And instrumental in promoting the Queens Park Rangers to the Premier League.
However, each player squandered their talent. They were undisciplined and unwilling to put in the work to excel.
How do they relate to romance?
Some are natural romantics with a knack for attracting partners. We think, “What romantics.”
- Giving flowers with a smile that melts hearts.
- Finding the “perfect” gift for their love.
- Enveloping their partner in lingering embraces.
Yet they ride the relationship merry-go-round. A relationship starts but soon romance becomes an evaporating memory. Romantic Moments – mediocre shadows of pre-relationship efforts. Relationships trip, sputter and splat. Their partner becomes disappointed exes.
If you’re a natural romantic, never stop working on that skill. Romance requires effort to create a continually growing relationship. You can’t coast on “talent.”
Non “natural romantics” can still become romantics their partner desires. Yes, it takes more effort. But you can become a better romantic than those “natural” romantics.
Later in life, Freddy Adu made this observation. Natural talent is not enough. You’ve got to work to maximize your abilities. Others may not have your natural talents, but they will work harder and surpass you.
Whether or not you’re a natural romantic, don’t give your relationship anything but your best. Never stop looking for better ways to romance and create Romantic Moments for your partner.
Robert Beagle, LET
