What is Stable Confidence? Does confidence change depending on the record or ability of your opponents? Some athletes only feel confident when they compete against weaker opponents and less confident against tougher competition… Your confidence sinks when you become “wowed” by your opponent’s record, skills, or talent level. Focusing on your opponent takes the focus off your talents, … Sport Psychology Article…
Moving Past an Off Day Have you had an athletic performance that was so horrible that you felt embarrassed when the competition ended? Bad games are one thing. You can often explain them away or at least understand that all athletes have an off day. Despite having a bad day, you still have your confidence intact and feel … Sport Psychology Article…
Have you Thought in a Competition, “We Lost”? Athletes can quickly become tempted to give in mentally when trailing by a considerable margin or competing during unfavorable circumstances, especially when they deem the odds are not in their favor. The question is, how can you flip the script? How can you maintain your focus and mental edge when … Sport Psychology Article…
Do you Contribute to Pressure During Competitions? It’s interesting to think about how we contribute to pressure. Pressure doesn’t merely exist; it is shaped by our thoughts and feelings about competing in certain situations. Pressure is a personal experience, and your relationship to pressure impacts your anxiety and performance levels. What affects your relationship with pressure? *Belief – … Sport Psychology Article…
Mental Toughness When being Criticized Mental toughness is often seen as a physical triumph over adversity. For example, a football player who returns to action in the fourth quarter after limping off the field earlier in the game. Or a gymnast who gets back up on the balance beam to complete her routine after a hard fall. However, … Sport Psychology Article…
Facing the Worst Conditions in a Competition Were you able to concentrate on competing, or did the weather or arena mentally affect your performance? Wind, rain, snow, excessive heat, frigid temperatures, and glaring sun can affect playing surfaces and competition conditions. It is challenging to be your best when weather conditions are not optimal. But why do some … Sport Psychology Article…