Challenges are the stepping stones to mastery; every mistake is a lesson in disguise.
Challenges are the stepping stones to mastery; every mistake is a lesson in disguise.
Yuvraj Singh Shekhawat is a dedicated and skilled ISSF shooter who has spent the last four years honing his craft in the competitive world of shooting.
His journey into this field began quite unexpectedly during a vacation, where a simple curiosity turned into a deep passion. With the unwavering guidance of his coach, Om Singh, Singh has transformed from a novice into a professional shooter, marking his presence in national tournaments and aiming for even greater accomplishments in the sport.
Yuvraj Singh reflects on his entry into the field of shooting as a matter of chance. It was during a break from his usual routine that he decided to explore shooting, and this decision set him on a path he had not anticipated. Under the mentorship of Om Singh, who has been his coach since the very beginning, Yuvraj quickly advanced in his skills.
His dedication paid off, and he soon found himself competing in significant events, including a national tournament in Kerala and the All India KSS Tournament. His hard work and focus have earned him both gold and silver medals, as well as a qualification for the Indian team trials.
Born into a disciplined Rajput family, Singh’s upbringing played a crucial role in shaping his character. He describes his childhood as one where discipline was paramount, yet he was never pressured academically by his parents. He acknowledges that he was an average student, but his parents allowed him the freedom to pursue his interests.
Growing up, he was also exposed to the business world through his father, who was involved in the mining industry. This exposure not only provided him with business knowledge but also inspired him to manage his own resort in Himachal Pradesh, alongside pursuing his graduation in Jaipur.
Yuvraj Singh candidly shares that his journey has not been without its challenges and mistakes. He recalls an early competition where his nerves got the better of him, causing his legs to tremble and leading to an accidental discharge. However, he views these moments as valuable learning experiences. With the constant support of his coach, Singh has grown both as an athlete and as a person, using each setback as a stepping stone to improve his performance and mindset.
When it comes to inspiration, Yuvraj looks up to Abhinav Bindra, a legendary figure in the shooting world. He draws motivation from Bindra’s book, *A Shot at History*, which has deeply influenced his approach to shooting and life. Through Bindra’s example, Yuvraj has learned the importance of staying grounded, maintaining humility, and respecting everyone around him, including his juniors.
Singh strongly believes that shooting is a sport that demands intense mental concentration, far more than physical practice. He advocates for the habit of writing down thoughts and experiences in a diary, which helps in analyzing mistakes and strategizing improvements. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of meditation to achieve mental clarity and focus, which are crucial for success in shooting.
Offering advice to others, Yuvraj shares his daily routine of reflecting on the previous day’s achievements and setting higher goals for the day ahead. He believes that this practice helps in maintaining a positive mindset and pushing oneself towards continuous improvement. He also advises against skipping any tasks set in one’s schedule, stressing that no challenge is too difficult if approached with determination and consistency.
Yuvraj Singh Shekhawat’s story is one of unexpected beginnings, relentless dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. His journey in the world of shooting serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with the right mindset and guidance, one can achieve remarkable success even in the face of challenges.