How Can I Improve My Mental Game Before Getting on the Field?

by Brandee Samlow To an athlete, “the game” is not only their career, it’s their life. It’s everything they live and breathe, day in and day out. Athletes train in the gym and on the field every single day to become the best of the best. So what sets apart one great athlete from the rest? Most people would probably guess it’s more physical training, but in reality, something else plays a huge role. Sport psychologists would say that the way they think and the way they train their mind is what will make or break an athlete. So if you’re an athlete, the next question would be, “How do I train my mind to be ready for the game?” You might expect answers such as “memorize all the plays” or “learn what the other team is doing,” but it’s more personal than that. It’s actually about looking at your inner dialogue and how that is affecting your mental game. Everyone — whether or not they are athletes — has an inner dialogue, which tends to be either positive or negative. This dialogue affects the way we interact with others and how we feel about ourselves. As athletes, it is extremely important to have a positive inner dialogue and to think positively about how you will perform in the game. If an athlete goes into a game thinking of all the negative plays they’ve had in the past or that they will perform poorly in this game, it is highly likely that it will happen that way. It becomes extremely difficult for an athlete to play their best when they are thinking the worst. To avoid this handicap of negative thinking, here are some tips to help you think more positively before and during the game:
  1. Think of a few positive phrases you can say to yourself, such as “I am dedicated,” “I am an amazing athlete,” or “I will push myself to become the best athlete I can be.”
  2. Imagine yourself at your best in the future game. What does success look like to you? Are you cheering with your teammates? Are you crossing the finish line? Truly picture what a “win” is for you.
  3. Bring a sense of calmness to yourself. It becomes very difficult to do the first two when you are overthinking or are thinking of all of the bad that could happen. Simply take some deep breaths and be your own beacon of stability.
These things may be easier said than done, and learning how to think positively can take time. It can also be difficult to make progress all on your own, but with a little help from the professionals at Clarity, you can gain more tools to feel more in control. Are you ready to schedule therapy at our Wilmington counseling center? Contact us today!
Resources Selfpause. Athletic Affirmations (app). https://selfpause.com/affirmations/athletic-affirmations/
Request Appointment