It is undeniable that there is a major “mental” component to competitive sports, but what does that really mean? And better yet, how can you improve the “mental” game? It is widely accepted to break down sports into four distinct areas (physical, technical, tactical, and mental) to help organize goals and develop strategic training…
Have you ever been told that you think too much? Or feel anxious because you can’t seem to stay focused during a competition? As a competitive athlete, you may already know the value of staying in the moment. Knowing this, however, doesn’t make the task any easier. Especially if you have been labeled as…
Have you ever had the experience where you feel so good about your performance that you start celebrating in your head, thinking, ‘I’ve got this in the bag!’ . . . but then all of the sudden your opponent starts to rally and you end up losing? When you experience success, it feels good. In…
Part 1: The Folly of an Over-Thinker It is a powerful, yet at times painful gift to think. The mind – a vehicle where thoughts take the wheel and emotions are thrown in the back. Over-thinkers, as they are called, are constantly working to find meaning, understand, make connections, prepare, plan, and draw conclusions –…
With a degree in sport psychology it may not be a surprise that I continue to play soccer at the semi-pro level. As a student as well as a teacher, I am eager to implement the mental techniques and strategies towards becoming a better performer. In fact, I feel that I am playing my best…
As a coach preparing to add valuable athletes to your team, what do you look for as a primary attribute? Most often the answer is ‘talent.’ As you watch an athlete perform, it is quite clear, they either have what you want or they do not. Although objective for a coach, the experience of an…