Although sport psychology is gaining in popularity and acceptance there are still questions about what it is & how it helps improve performance. Let me put your mind at ease, no pun intended!
Every athlete or other type of performer that contacts me is usually wanting to enhance their game by working on the mental skills needed to do their best, (i.e. focus, attitude, self talk, relaxation, imagery, centering, dealing with performance anxiety, segmentation, confidence, burnout, establishing routines, staying calm under pressure) etc… A client of mine recently explained, “I was simply trying to utilize all of the resources available to me so I could do my best.” He also wanted to make sure there were no gaps in his game. At the time he was doubting his ability and chances to win during the most crucial point in his athletic career. Our meeting left him reassured and once again confident. He trusted himself and his preparation, he emerged victorious!
There wasn’t anything wrong with him as people often think when someone sees a “psychologist.” He just needed to get his confidence back and learn a few techniques to keep it. The people and teams that work with me are those who realize the role the mind plays in their failure or success. They merely want to learn to use it (mind) to their advantage, they want that extra edge, the mental edge.
There also isn’t anything wrong with someone who calls a speed and agility coach to help them get faster. What about the person who works with a personal trainer to become stronger or the kid who attends a summer baseball camp? Regardless of the sport or performance arena in which they participate they all want the same thing, to get better at the the thing they love. In other words, they want to ensure their ability to get the best possible outcome each time they step on the field, court, track, stage etc.
Sport psychology is about inspiring the exceptional and believing that impossible is nothing. Its about learning to accept our strengths and weaknesses and taking responsibility for our thoughts and actions. Its about getting ourselves to trust our abilities and instincts and stop focusing on things we can’t do by choosing to focus more on the things we can do!
Give your mental game a chance and be astonished at the dramatic change in your performance, attitude and circumstances!
CATCH THE VISION! PLAY WITH PURPOSE!! LIVE YOUR DREAMS!!!
Excellent contribution.