Athletes, Mistakes, Self-Doubt: Oh My!
Sports are full of mistakes. Sometimes, the winning team is the one who didn’t let the mistakes impact their performance. And sometimes, we lose because we couldn’t overcome the mistakes, not because we were not talented enough to do so. Based on this concept, it is safe to say that sports in general has an enormous impact on our athlete’s mental capacity. Why is it that some of our athletes cannot overcome their mistakes and others can? Why is it that some athletes dwell on the negative, while others let it roll off their back?
Not only do athletes struggle with making mistakes, but the standard of being perfect is also a real issue among athletes that can hold them back from being their best. Generally one’s self-worth is connected to what happens on the court or on the field. Perfectionism is never going to happen in sport because it is the imperfection that makes the game exciting. In this instance, we can teach our athletes to be courageous, take risks, stay present, and become more self-aware. Ultimately, it is all about control - learning to control the thoughts that our athletes let impact their athletic performance.
Try This
How do we change the thoughts from negative to positive?
We have the capacity to decide on what we do with our thoughts once we are aware of them.
First, we need to recognize our mindset (which in this instance is negative).
Second, we need to replace the mindset with positive thoughts.
Finally, radiate the positive energy.
Notice any changes in our athletes.
Pay attention. Know what your athletes need.
Help them get the body in sync with the mind.
What is their trigger? How do your athletes want to manage the space associated with their trigger?
When your athletes are having a difficult practice or not practicing as they normally do, ask them, “What is going on today?” Take the time to listen.
Uncover the beliefs of why perfectionism is a challenge.
Help them understand how perfectionism affects their self-confidence.
Uncover the beliefs that support the need to be perfect.
Continue to help improve athletes confidence with positive affirmations and reinforcement.
Practical Application
Seek out a mental performance coach.
Meditate
Journal
Set Goals and practice objectives that are realistic.
Strive for excellence by hard work and consistency.
Failure is OK because it allows one to improve.
Teach athletes how to be resilient.
Mindfulness (self-awareness/arousal control).
Visualization (imagery)
Overcome the lure of perfectionism with positive self-talk.
Welcome mistakes.
Focus on what one did well in each contest and evaluate one’s play.
