Swing for the fences is an idiom I first came across while spending more time in the USA. It means to put all one’s power into one’s swing while batting, so as to hit a home run. The idiom is used to explain or encourage a person to put the maximum amount of effort or energy into a thing, or act or perform with great intensity or effort.
It is not just in sport but in trading stock this term is used. Those investors swinging for the fences attempt to obtain large returns often in an exchange for significant risk.
In all of these endeavours those who swing for the fences every time will no doubt gain big wins at times but they also strike out a lot. The smarter of us know when to hit singles, doubles and then when the time is right swing for the fences.
Youthful vigour, enthusiasm or even machismo might grab the attention and admiration of those easily impressed. If you are in it for the long term however then you stay patient and make smart decisions for each occasion. Making small gains, easy wins when you can. Then you have earned a right to swing for the fences.
Some don’t swing hard enough to hit anything for a home run and seem destined to mediocrity. Some swing at everything and they come and go over the long haul. The smartest of players, swing hard when the occasion arises but always focus on pulling for the teams, doing what is needed which keep you and you in the game.
Hearty handshakes from me to you
Sea's The Day 