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# Peak Performance Sports - Mental Performance Coaching for Athletes

The industry leader in mental performance coaching and sports psychology strategies. Helping athletes, coaches, and parents improve confidence and focus since 1994.

## Posts

### [Sports Psychology Articles](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog-articles/)

**Published:** July 29, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

This is the page to add the categories for:

–Articles
–Video
–Podcasts

No Need to bring in products or free reports from the blog site.

---

### [The Qualities of Good Team Leaders](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-qualities-of-good-team-leaders/)

**Published:** June 15, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![The Qualities of Good Team Leaders](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/team-leaders.jpg)

## What Are the Qualities of an Effective Team Leader? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Are the Qualities of an Effective Team Leader?](#What_Are_the_Qualities_of_an_Effective_Team_Leader)
    - [Effective team leaders:](#Effective_team_leaders)
    - [After the game, Butler was asked, “Why do you think it was lacking tonight?”](#After_the_game_Butler_was_asked_%E2%80%9CWhy_do_you_think_it_was_lacking_tonight%E2%80%9D)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Team captains are either selected by their coaches or voted upon by the players. However, not all team captains are good team leaders.

Sometimes, team captains talk the talk but don’t walk the walk. For example, a lazy team captain in practice might get on his teammates for being lazy.

You have likely experienced a team captain who doesn’t practice what they preach. They may jump all over you for making mental mistakes yet excuse themselves for the same mistake.

As a result, you hear the grumblings of teammates unhappy or angry with the double standard. Eventually, the team takes sides or ignores the captain altogether. Winning is complicated when all team members are not on the same page.

This mixed message is divisive and interferes with a team’s ability to work towards a common cause.

On the other hand, a team leader provides a good example for their teammates.

### Effective team leaders:

- Work hard in training sessions
- Put in extra work
- Focus on team goals above personal statistics
- Listens to the directions and feedback from the coaching staff
- Are good communicators
- Take responsibility for their actions

Effective, positive, and influential team leaders lead by example!

In the 2023 NBA finals, the Miami Heat lost Game 3 to the Denver Nuggets on their home court by a score of 109-94 and took a 2-1 lead in the series.

Even though Miami Heat Udonis Haslem is the team captain, forward Jimmy Butler has been a leader throughout the regular season, especially in the playoffs.

Butler has had an excellent postseason and averaged 27.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.8 steals through his first 20 games. In Game 3, the Heat lacked effort and out-rebounded 58-33.

### After the game, Butler was asked, “Why do you think it was lacking tonight?”

**BUTLER**: *“I don’t know. It just can’t happen. It won’t happen again, and it starts with myself. I gotta lock in on the defensive end. I gotta go up and get loose balls, so I think if I start playing and doing that, then everybody else has to follow suit.”*

Butler put the onus on himself; he didn’t blame anyone but realized that leaders set the tone.

You don’t need to be voted captain to be a leader. In fact, being the best player or highest scorer on your team is not a requirement to be a leader.

Every player can be a leader. It is up to you to decide what type of example you want to be to your teammates and then set that image of positive leadership into motion.

Create a list of positive qualities of “leaders.” What do great leaders do and how do they behave?

Think about the impact of captains from past teams. Were those captains good team leaders? What did you like and dislike about those past captains?

Once you develop a clear image of what a positive team leader looks and acts like, you can start being a positive example for your teammates.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Team Culture Impacts Team Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-team-culture-impacts-team-success/)
- [How One Team Improves Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-one-team-improves-mental-toughness/)
- [Sports Psychology Podcast: Understanding Team Dynamics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-podcast-understanding-team-dynamics/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

 [ ![social network 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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

---

### [Returning to Competition After Injury](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/returning-to-competition-after-injury/)

**Published:** June 8, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Returning to Competition After Injury](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/post-injury.jpg)

## Your Biggest Fear When Dealing with an Injury

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Your Biggest Fear When Dealing with an Injury](#Your_Biggest_Fear_When_Dealing_with_an_Injury)
    - [When you are injured, you will have three major concerns:](#When_you_are_injured_you_will_have_three_major_concerns)
    - [Your recovery plan should consist of mile markers to achieve before progressing to the next stage.](#Your_recovery_plan_should_consist_of_mile_markers_to_achieve_before_progressing_to_the_next_stage)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Every athlete has a unique and personal injury experience, meaning injury affects athletes differently depending on their perspective.

Sports injuries are multifaceted. Every injury has a physical, mental, and emotional component. Neglecting one of these components can delay the mental or physical healing process.

### When you are injured, you will have three major concerns:

1. The injury itself and its severity
2. Rehab or time away from competition and training
3. Return to action

Each phase contains its unique challenges.

Let’s examine the final phase of injury, returning to competition.

Most athletes want to get back to action as quickly as possible. They don’t want to lose their physical conditioning, role on the team, or potential contribution to the team’s success.

This urge to compete often causes athletes to return to action too soon.

The lack of physical and mental readiness causes athletes to underperform and increases the risk of re-injury. Underperformance can lead to confidence issues and performance slumps.

For example, San Diego Padres infielder Matt Carpenter suffered a foot fracture towards the end of the 2022 regular season while playing with the New York Yankees.

Before fully recovering from the injury, Carpenter returned for the Yankees’ playoff run.

While Carpenter’s return to action may seem heroic, he drastically under performed. In his first six postseason appearances, Carpenter was 1-for-12 with nine strikeouts. Carpenter under performed, and his early return to action significantly delayed his recovery.

**CARPENTER**: *“I probably pushed it more than I should have to come back and play in October, and it kind of cost me the rest of my offseason. My foot just never healed. It was broken all the way until basically the day I signed \[with San Diego\].”*

Understandably, you want to return to competition quickly. Especially since you primarily identify with being an athlete.

However, you should realize there is much at stake if you return to competition before you have recovered from your injury.

Create a recovery plan with your coach, athletic trainer, and doctor to maximize your physical and mental readiness for competition.

### Your recovery plan should consist of mile markers to achieve before progressing to the next stage.

Some considerations to include as mile markers are being pain-free, achieving a pre-injury level of conditioning, overcoming the fear of re-injury, performing rehab exercises with a low level of discomfort

Also consider learning relaxation or stress-reducing strategies, visualizing performing at a high level, getting the approval from your doctor or physical therapist to return to training.

A specific, detailed injury plan will help you feel in control of the injury process and feel confident and prepared when you return to action.

Think of potential obstacles that will affect your rehab. For each obstacle, write down 1-2 ways that you can overcome that obstacle so you can be better prepared to compete.

Lastly, recognize the importance of patience and listening to your body so you are fully prepared to be on top of your game.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Maintain Confidence After an Injury](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-maintain-confidence-after-an-injury/)
- [How To Comeback Strong After An Injury](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/comeback-strong-after-injury/)
- [Control Your Emotions When Returning From an Injury](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/control-your-emotions-when-returning-from-an-injury/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [What Mental Strategies Do Elite Athletes Use to Comeback?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-strategies-comebacks-sports/)

**Published:** April 2, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![What Mental Strategies Do Elite Athletes Use to Comeback?](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/comeback.jpg)

## **How Can You Fuel a Comeback in Competition?**

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can You Fuel a Comeback in Competition?](#How_Can_You_Fuel_a_Comeback_in_Competition)
    - [Why Watching the Scoreboard Kills Comebacks](#Why_Watching_the_Scoreboard_Kills_Comebacks)
    - [The Mental Edge Approach to Process Focus](#The_Mental_Edge_Approach_to_Process_Focus)
    - [How Iowa Used Small Moments to Complete a Comeback](#How_Iowa_Used_Small_Moments_to_Complete_a_Comeback)
    - [3 Strategies to Fuel Your Comeback](#3_Strategies_to_Fuel_Your_Comeback)
    - [Winning the Moment Starts in Practice](#Winning_the_Moment_Starts_in_Practice)
    - [The Bottom Line](#The_Bottom_Line)
    - [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)
        - [What is the most important mental skill for making a comeback in sports?](#What_is_the_most_important_mental_skill_for_making_a_comeback_in_sports)
        - [Why do athletes lose composure when trailing in a competition?](#Why_do_athletes_lose_composure_when_trailing_in_a_competition)
        - [How do you stay mentally focused during a comeback attempt?](#How_do_you_stay_mentally_focused_during_a_comeback_attempt)
        - [Can mental performance coaching help athletes perform better under pressure?](#Can_mental_performance_coaching_help_athletes_perform_better_under_pressure)
        - [How do you build mental toughness for comebacks in practice?](#How_do_you_build_mental_toughness_for_comebacks_in_practice)

SummaryThe most effective mental strategies for comebacks in sports are not about dramatic swings of emotion or extra effort. They are about winning small moments, staying process-focused, and refusing to let the scoreboard control your mental state. Elite competitors come back one play at a time — and so can you.

### **Why Watching the Scoreboard Kills Comebacks**

When you are trailing in a competition, the scoreboard becomes a trap. You constantly check the gap, analyze potential scenarios, and project how many points, goals, or runs you need to catch up.

That scoreboard focus creates anxiety and frustration. When your team scores, you ride an emotional high. When the opponent scores, you crash. This emotional roller coaster drains the mental and physical energy you need to keep competing until the final play.

Elite competitors respond differently. They are aware of the score and the game situation, but their **mental focus** stays locked on the next play. They understand that comebacks are built one possession, one point, or one moment at a time — not in one dramatic surge.

### **The Mental Edge Approach to Process Focus**

In the **Mental Edge** system, one of the foundational principles is process focus. Good concentration means directing your attention to relevant performance cues in the present moment — not outcomes, not the scoreboard, and not the mistakes from the last play.

The **Mental Edge** concentration framework includes the Three R’s for Refocusing: Recognize when your mind has drifted to the score or the deficit, Regroup by interrupting that thought pattern, and Refocus back to the next play. This simple reset keeps your energy pointed where it matters most — execution.

When you commit to winning the small moment in front of you, something powerful begins to happen. You start stacking successful plays. Momentum shifts. The gap on the scoreboard starts to close. And the opposing team begins to feel the pressure instead of you.

### **How Iowa Used Small Moments to Complete a Comeback**

During the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the No. 9-seeded Iowa Hawkeyes faced No. 4-seeded Nebraska in the Sweet 16. Nebraska dominated the early portions of the game, jumping to a commanding lead in the first ten minutes.

Rather than panicking or forcing shots to erase the deficit quickly, Iowa locked in on winning shorter segments of the game. They focused on the next possession, the next defensive stop, the next four-minute stretch.

Iowa forward Cooper Koch described the approach as winning the last few media timeouts going into halftime. The Hawkeyes hit a three-pointer at the halftime buzzer to cut Nebraska’s lead to three points, carrying that momentum into the locker room.

In the second half, Iowa continued the same process-focused approach. With about two minutes remaining, Iowa took its first lead of the game and never looked back, winning 77-71 to advance to the Elite Eight.

The comeback was not the result of one dramatic moment. It was built from dozens of small victories throughout the game — exactly how **mental strategies for comebacks in sports** work in practice.

### **3 Strategies to Fuel Your Comeback**

The first strategy is to focus on the next play, not the score. Resist the pull of the scoreboard and how many points, runs, or goals you need to catch up. Direct your attention to the immediate task: executing the next defensive stop, making a smart decision, or carrying out your role. Each time you win the next play, you chip away at the deficit without becoming overwhelmed by the overall gap.

The second strategy is to break the competition into small segments. Instead of thinking about the entire game or match, divide it into manageable stretches. Win the next four minutes. Win the next shift. Win the next three possessions. This approach keeps you present and immersed in the process while momentum builds beneath you. As the **Mental Edge** framework teaches, what you focus on, you improve — and right now, the only thing worth focusing on is the next moment.

The third strategy is to keep your emotions in check. If you miss a shot or make a mistake during a comeback attempt, do not panic. Panic is the fastest way to fall further behind. Take a breath, use the Three R’s to refocus, and get back to the plan. **Composure under pressure** is the mental fuel that sustains a comeback all the way to the final whistle.

### **Winning the Moment Starts in Practice**

The ability to focus on small moments under pressure is a mental skill that must be trained, not just hoped for in competition.

During practice, challenge yourself to compete with full intensity in short segments rather than coasting through drills. Simulate pressure situations. Use the Three R’s to refocus when you make mistakes in practice so the habit is automatic when you need it in a game.

If you want to build the kind of **mental focus** and **composure under pressure** that elite competitors demonstrate, subscribe to my free mental game newsletter at PeakSports.com or call 407-909-1700 to explore **mental performance coaching** options.

### **The Bottom Line**

Comebacks are never built in one dramatic moment. They are built one play, one possession, and one small victory at a time.

The **mental strategies for comebacks in sports** that separate elite competitors from everyone else come down to process focus, emotional control, and the ability to win the moment right in front of them. The scoreboard is not your enemy — letting the scoreboard control your focus is.

Stay locked in on the next play. Stack small wins. Trust the process. That is the formula for closing any gap in any sport.

### **Frequently Asked Questions**

#### **What is the most important mental skill for making a comeback in sports?**

The most important mental skill for comebacks is process focus — the ability to direct your attention to the next play rather than the scoreboard or the size of the deficit. When you stay immersed in what you can execute right now, you conserve mental and physical energy, reduce anxiety, and build momentum one small victory at a time. This is the foundation of all effective mental strategies for comebacks in sports.

#### **Why do athletes lose composure when trailing in a competition?**

Athletes lose composure when trailing because they shift their attention from execution to outcome. Watching the scoreboard, calculating the deficit, and projecting worst-case scenarios all create anxiety and frustration. This emotional spiral drains energy and causes rushed decision-making. Learning to redirect focus back to the next play — using tools like the Three R’s for Refocusing — is the key to maintaining composure when the game is on the line.

#### **How do you stay mentally focused during a comeback attempt?**

Staying mentally focused during a comeback requires a deliberate process focus strategy. Break the competition into short segments rather than trying to erase the entire deficit at once. Use performance cues and process goals to anchor your attention to the present moment. When your mind drifts to the score or past mistakes, use the Three R’s — Recognize, Regroup, Refocus — to get back on track as quickly as possible.

#### **Can mental performance coaching help athletes perform better under pressure?**

Yes. Mental performance coaching gives athletes the specific tools and strategies to perform with composure when the pressure is highest. A mental coach helps you identify the thought patterns that hurt your focus under pressure, build refocusing routines that work in real competition, and develop the consistent mindset that sustains peak performance even when things are not going your way. Athletes who invest in mental training consistently outperform their peers in high-pressure situations.

#### **How do you build mental toughness for comebacks in practice?**

Mental toughness for comebacks is built by simulating pressure during practice. Compete in short segments with full intensity. Practice using the Three R’s to refocus after mistakes rather than dwelling on them. Set process goals for each practice segment and hold yourself accountable to your attention and effort — not just the outcome of the drill. The mental habits you build in practice are the habits that show up when you need them most in competition.

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Golf Psychology, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [4 Ways to Overcome Self-Doubt for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-to-overcome-self-doubt-for-athletes/)

**Published:** August 21, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Overcome Self-Doubt for Athletes - Tennis Ball Photo](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/self-doubt.jpg)Overcome Self-Doubt

## Can You Perform Your Best When Doubting?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Can You Perform Your Best When Doubting?](#Can_You_Perform_Your_Best_When_Doubting)
- [4 Proven Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubt in Sports](#4_Proven_Strategies_to_Overcome_Self-Doubt_in_Sports)
    - [1. Understand the Nature of Doubt](#1_Understand_the_Nature_of_Doubt)
    - [2. Shift Attention Outward](#2_Shift_Attention_Outward)
    - [3. Change the Inner Conversation](#3_Change_the_Inner_Conversation)
    - [4. Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome](#4_Focus_on_the_Process_Not_the_Outcome)
    - [FAQ – Self-Doubt in Sports](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Self-Doubt_in_Sports)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athletes: A 14-Day Program for Unbeatable Trust](#The_Fearless_Athletes_A_14-Day_Program_for_Unbeatable_Trust)

Summary*Every athlete experiences self-doubt, whether before a big competition, during a slump, or after a major success that brings new expectations. Doubts can hold athletes back by creating tension, slowing decision-making, and disrupting focus. The goal isn’t to eliminate doubt completely but to manage it effectively in the moment. Golden State Valkyries guard Kate Martin is a great example of this mindset. When doubts creep in, she redirects her focus outward—cheering for teammates, defending with energy, or finding small ways to stay engaged. By quickly shifting her attention, Martin prevents doubt from taking control. Below are four proven strategies to help athletes manage doubt, reframe negative thinking, and compete with confidence.*

How do you **overcome self-doubt** during competitions? Do you actively attempt to implement strategies to counter your doubts?

Every athlete, no matter how experienced, has moments of doubt. Doubts can creep in before a competition, during a slump in performance, late in a game, or even after a major success when the expectations for repeat performances are high.

Doubts and fears are performance inhibitors. They slow down decision-making, create muscle tension, lead to hesitancy, throw off mechanics, clutter the mind, and interfere with your ability to focus.

The issue is not how to prevent doubts from ever popping into your mind, but **how to overcomeself-doubt** in the moment, so it doesn’t interfere with your ability to perform at a high level.

One example of **how to overcome self-doubt** is Golden State Valkyries second-year guard Kate Martin. Martin admits she still has moments of doubt as a professional. However, Martin has found a way of managing those doubts so they don’t limit her play on the court.

When Martin notices doubts creeping into her mind, she quickly refocuses on something external.

MARTIN: *“I have a thing that if I am in my own head, I will try to get into somebody else’s, not in a trash-talk sort of way. If I’m in my own head feeling doubt, I just try to cheer extra loud for somebody else and put my focus on someone else.”*

Martin understands that when you focus on doubts, they tend to grow. Instead of giving doubts more power over her performance, Martin focuses on cheering for her teammates, playing tough defense, or playing with greater energy.

Self-doubt will always lurk deep in the background, no matter your level of experience. The key is to **manage self-doubt** as they arise, instead of focusing on those negative thoughts and allowing them to grow and take over your game.

By quickly recognizing doubt, reframing it, or channeling your energy into something productive or performance-enhancing, you can perform at your best in that moment.

## **4 Proven Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubt in Sports**

### **1. Understand the Nature of Doubt**

The first step in overcoming self-doubt in sports is understanding that doubt is normal and experienced by athletes at every level. Instead of believing something is wrong with you when doubt arises, remind yourself that even elite professionals face it before games or during tough moments. By normalizing doubt, you take away its power and recognize that you can still perform at a high level despite its presence.

### **2. Shift Attention Outward**

A powerful method for **overcoming self-doubt in sports** is to redirect your focus outward instead of retreating into your own negative thoughts. When you start overthinking, shift your energy toward actions that impact the game positively–cheering for teammates, increasing defensive effort, or committing to hustle plays. This outward focus helps you stay engaged in the moment and prevents doubts from taking over your mindset.

### **3. Change the Inner Conversation**

Your self-talk plays a major role in overcoming self-doubt in sports. When negative thoughts creep in, such as *“I’m not good enough”* or *“I’ll mess this up,”* it’s important to challenge those thoughts and replace them with confident, realistic statements. Remind yourself of your preparation, your skills, and your ability to respond under pressure. Over time, this positive inner dialogue rewires your mindset and strengthens your mental toughness.

### **4. Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome**

One of the most effective strategies for overcoming self-doubt in sports is to shift attention away from results and toward the process. Doubts often stem from fear of outcomes—worrying about losing, disappointing others, or failing. Instead, anchor your focus on controllable actions: your mechanics, routines, and effort. By staying process-driven, you not only reduce anxiety but also build confidence in your ability to execute each moment with focus.

### **FAQ – Self-Doubt in Sports**

**Q: Is self-doubt normal for athletes?**
A: Yes, every athlete experiences doubt at some point, from youth players to professionals. What matters is how you manage those doubts so they don’t impact your performance.

**Q: How does self-doubt affect performance?**
A: Self-doubt can cause hesitation, slower reactions, tension, and loss of focus. If unmanaged, it can negatively impact decision-making and execution during competition.

**Q: Can self-doubt ever be helpful?**
A: In small amounts, doubt can sharpen focus and motivate athletes to prepare more effectively. The key is preventing doubt from overwhelming your confidence.

**Q: What is the best quick fix for doubt during a game?**
A: The fastest strategy is to use a reset routine—take a deep breath, refocus on one task, and use positive self-talk to bring your attention back to the present moment.

**Q: How do professionals deal with self-doubt?**
A: Many professionals use strategies such as visualization, mindfulness, and positive self-talk. Some, like Kate Martin, redirect their focus outward by supporting teammates or playing with extra energy.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)
- [4 Mindsets to Feel Comfortable at a New Arena](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mindsets-feel-comfortable-at-a-new-arena/)
- [4 Ways Athletes Can Build a Competitive Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-athletes-can-build-a-competitive-mindset/)

---

### [The Fearless Athletes: A 14-Day Program for Unbeatable Trust](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

**The Fearless Athlete program** is ideal for any athlete that wants to overcome fear of failure and uncover inhibiting perfectionistic traits; or for any coach or parent who wants to teach athletes to perform with trust and freedom in competition.

“**The Fearless Athlete**” program is presented on two 75-minute CD’s with a 78-page step-by-step workbook. I combine a practical and real-life workbook with a step-by-step CD program that takes you through each day of the 14 day program – **like having your own personal mental coach**. It’s a complete system for reprogramming your mindset for unbeatable trust in competition

You can use these CDs at home with the practical workbook or download them onto your iPod so you can listen to them in your car or van repeatedly until the strategies are stored in your sub-conscious mind.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Mindset and Talent as Predictors for Athletic Success ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-talent-as-predictors-for-athletic-success/)

**Published:** June 6, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Can Your Mindset Be a Predictor of Success?](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/mindset-1.jpg)

## How Can Your Mindset Be a Predictor of Success?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can Your Mindset Be a Predictor of Success?](#How_Can_Your_Mindset_Be_a_Predictor_of_Success)
- [3 Core Elements of a Growth Mindset](#3_Core_Elements_of_a_Growth_Mindset)
    - [4 Mental Game Tips for Athletic Success](#4_Mental_Game_Tips_for_Athletic_Success)
- [FAQ – Mindset and Athletic Success](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Mindset_and_Athletic_Success)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

***Summary**: Athletic success isn’t just about talent, strength, or reflexes—it’s built on mindset. Athletes with a growth mindset embrace challenges, adapt to setbacks, and focus on continuous improvement rather than fearing failure. Unlike a fixed mindset, which ties success only to natural ability, a growth mindset emphasizes purposeful planning, adaptability, and steady progress. By focusing on daily improvements and long-term goals, athletes can develop resilience, confidence, and the consistency needed to succeed at the highest levels.*

What factors do you think contribute to athletic **success**? Talent? Quick reflexes? Strength?

All three add a bit to the **success** equation. While you can run down a list of physical attributes, athletic **success** requires something more.

What is that something? It’s mindset! Not only is a positive mindset necessary to succeed in sports, but it is also the most significant variable for athletic **success**.

Your mindset influences how you see yourself, your circumstances, and the outcomes you achieve. Many athletes see wins as a sign of talent and losses as a sign of a lack of ability.

However, this limited view is problematic. It causes your confidence to rise and fall depending on whether you win or lose, achieve a personal best, or miss a cut. When athletes equate **success** with primarily talent, referred to as a fixed mindset, they often avoid challenges because they fear failure.

A rough patch in the season often causes them to give in. As a result, they may plateau early, struggle to bounce back from setbacks, and become frustrated by criticism.

However, talent alone does not lead to **success**. The path to achievement is growth, and growth requires challenges and obstacles. The mentality is referred to as a growth mindset.

## 3 Core Elements of a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset consists of three core elements: purposefully planning, adapting, and adjusting. **Success** requires growing pains that show up as losses, mistakes, adversity, and discomfort. It’s applying feedback from competition and focusing on being better today than yesterday.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have steadily improved over the last three seasons, increasing their yearly win total. The Thunder finished the 2024-25 regular season with a league-leading 68 wins and continued to sharpen their game throughout the playoffs.

As the Thunder enter the NBA Finals, they believe their year-long growth has prepared them for this moment. Thunder power forward Chet Holmgren credits the team’s commitment to improvement as the key to their **success** throughout the year.

Also, Holmgren believes this commitment to improvement gives them an advantage in the NBA Finals.

HOLMGREN: “Just like any other experience that we’ve had to go through, I feel like we’ve learned from them and figured out how we can be better for the next time we see that challenge, This is just another part of the playoffs, another thing that you have to maximize and make the most of, and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

Athletic **success** requires more than talent; it results from an intentional mindset, objective performance evaluation, purposeful effort, a flexible approach to athletic growth, and a commitment to improvement.

The athletes who succeed focus on growth and are willing to plan, adapt, and adjust to achieve their seasonal goals.

Before each week or game, ask yourself: “What’s one area I can improve today that aligns with my seasonal goals?”

Then, act on improving those areas with intent. Always keep in mind that small, daily actions create big seasonal outcomes.

### 4 Mental Game Tips for Athletic Success

**1. Focus on Growth, Not Perfection**
Instead of tying your confidence to wins or losses, shift your focus to daily progress. Ask yourself after each practice or game: *“What’s one thing I improved today?”*

**2. Reframe Setbacks as Feedback**
Mistakes and losses aren’t failures—they’re opportunities to learn. Treat every challenge as data that helps you adjust and come back stronger next time.

**3. Set Process-Oriented Goals**
Talent isn’t in your control, but effort and preparation are. Define goals around actions—like “stay composed after mistakes” or “attack every rep with energy”—to build consistency.

**4. Adapt and Adjust**
Champions pivot quickly when faced with adversity. Train yourself to stay flexible: if Plan A doesn’t work, move to Plan B without losing confidence or intensity.

---

## FAQ – Mindset and Athletic Success

**Q: What matters more for athletic success—talent or mindset?**
A: While natural talent, physical strength, and quick reflexes all contribute, mindset is the true differentiator. Athletes with the right mindset keep improving over time, push through obstacles, and stay motivated even when talent alone isn’t enough.

**Q: What is a growth mindset in sports?**
A: A growth mindset is the belief that abilities can be developed through effort, practice, and learning. In sports, this means viewing setbacks as opportunities, embracing challenges, and focusing on progress over perfection. Athletes with a growth mindset tend to perform more consistently and improve steadily.

**Q: How does a fixed mindset hurt athletes?**
A: A fixed mindset ties success to natural ability and avoids risk. Athletes with this mindset often fear failure, shy away from challenges, and lose confidence quickly after mistakes or losses. Over time, this limits their growth and prevents them from reaching their full potential.

**Q: How can athletes build a stronger mindset?**
A: Athletes can strengthen their mindset by setting process-based goals, embracing adversity, and reframing mistakes as valuable feedback. Consistently focusing on daily improvement and being open to adjustment helps build confidence, resilience, and long-term success.

**Q: What’s one simple mental game strategy athletes can use today?**
A: A practical way to start is by asking before each practice or game: *“What’s one specific area I can improve today that supports my season goals?”* This small, intentional focus shifts attention away from results and onto growth, creating consistent improvement over time.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Break a Losing Season](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-break-a-losing-season/)
- [How to Grow From Post-Season Evaluations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-from-post-season-evaluations/)
- [Mindset and The Eagles’ Losing Season](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-the-eagles-losing-season/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

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*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Athlete Expectations, Mindset in Sports

---

### [5 Ways to Develop the Qualities of a Championship Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/championship-team-mindset/)

**Published:** April 11, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![5 Ways to Develop the Qualities of a Championship Team](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/championship-team.jpg)Qualities of Championship Teams

## **What mental qualities do championship teams have?**

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What mental qualities do championship teams have?](#What_mental_qualities_do_championship_teams_have)
- [What Separates Championship Teams?](#What_Separates_Championship_Teams)
- [The Seven Qualities Championship Teams Build](#The_Seven_Qualities_Championship_Teams_Build)
- [How UCLA’s Women’s Basketball Team Built a Championship Mindset](#How_UCLAs_Womens_Basketball_Team_Built_a_Championship_Mindset)
- [5 Ways to Develop These Championship Qualities on Your Team](#5_Ways_to_Develop_These_Championship_Qualities_on_Your_Team)
- [How to Apply This with Your Team Starting Now](#How_to_Apply_This_with_Your_Team_Starting_Now)
- [Bottom Line](#Bottom_Line)
- [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete CD and Workbook Program](#The_Confident_Athlete_CD_and_Workbook_Program)

Summary*Talent and hard work are necessary, but they are not enough.* ***Championship team mindset*** *is built on a specific set of mental skills that most teams either overlook or underinvest in. Teams that intentionally develop these qualities give themselves the best chance to compete when the pressure is highest.*

## **What Separates Championship Teams?**

Every sports team wants to advance to the playoffs and win a championship. But wanting to win is not enough on its own. Many talented teams fall short not because of a lack of ability, but because of a lack of collective mental preparation.

**Mental performance team sports** research consistently shows that the teams who win championships share a set of non-negotiable mental qualities. These qualities are not accidental. They are intentionally built through consistent habits, shared standards, and a commitment to something bigger than individual success.

## **The Seven Qualities Championship Teams Build**

The first quality is a common goal. Championship teams share a clearly defined purpose that every athlete believes in and commits to. When individual goals take a backseat to the team mission, the team bond strengthens and collective performance improves.

Daily commitment to that goal is the second quality. Championship teams do not just talk about their goals. They commit to them through practice intensity, preparation routines, and consistent team-first behavior. Those small daily actions build the discipline required to compete at the highest level.

**Team confidence** is the third quality. Championship teams develop a deep belief in their collective ability to succeed. That confidence is built through preparation, shared challenges, and trust in each other. When pressure rises, confident teams expect to succeed rather than fear failure.

The fourth quality is selflessness. Championship teams prioritize group success over individual recognition. Players willingly accept roles, make sacrifices, and support teammates. Selflessness creates a culture where every member feels valued and the whole becomes stronger than the sum of its parts.

Fear-free play is the fifth quality. **Fear-free play** means competing aggressively without worrying about making mistakes. Players trust their preparation and respond positively to challenges. This allows them to perform instinctively in high-pressure moments rather than hesitating or playing conservatively.

**Resilience in sports** is the sixth quality. Adversity strikes every team every season. Championship teams respond to setbacks with determination rather than discouragement. They focus on solutions, learn from challenges, regroup quickly, and keep pushing forward.

Vision is the seventh quality. Championship teams see themselves winning. Players consistently visualize success throughout the season. That mental image of winning keeps teams disciplined, motivated, and energized when the grind of the season wears on them.

## **How UCLA’s Women’s Basketball Team Built a Championship Mindset**

A compelling example of these qualities in action was UCLA’s women’s basketball team in the 2026 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship. UCLA dominated South Carolina from start to finish, winning 79-51 to claim the program’s first-ever women’s NCAA title and cap a 37-1 season.

Perhaps most telling was that all five UCLA starters scored in double digits. That kind of balanced output does not happen by accident. It is the direct result of selflessness and a shared commitment to one goal rather than individual statistics.

Guard Kiki Rice spoke to the team’s **resilience in sports** and fearless approach: “Today was just a fantastic display of our resilience and intensity… We knew, we had a feeling this was our time, this was our year. We came out there this entire weekend, and we would not be denied.”

Lauren Betts, named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, highlighted the role of **team confidence** and selfless play: “The confidence we came out with, we just knew we were going to win because of all the prep and work that we put in. I think when we find a way to play together and play selflessly, do what we do, no one can stop us.”

Guard Gabriela Jaquez, who scored a team-high 21 points, connected the win directly to visualization and a plan set in motion at the team’s first practice: “We decided to be national champions… This was the plan, and we accomplished it. The mind is so powerful, we’ve been prepping for this since Sept. 25… I knew we were gonna do it. I imagined this moment, I imagined it so many times.”

UCLA’s championship was not a coincidence. It was the result of intentionally building every one of these mental qualities from the first day of practice.

## **5 Ways to Develop These Championship Qualities on Your Team**

**Define the team mission.** At the start of the season, players and coaches should meet to clearly define the team’s ultimate goal. This step gives every player ownership over their contribution to the collective mission and creates the shared purpose that drives **championship team mindset**.

**Establish daily standards.** Have an open discussion about the standards required to achieve the team’s mission. Practice intensity, preparation routines, accountability, and effort standards help every player understand what is expected of them each day, not just on game day.

**Build trust deliberately.** Prioritize building **team confidence** and trust through open communication, mutual encouragement, and facing challenges together. Trust built inside the locker room carries directly onto the field or court in competition.

**Train for pressure situations.** Championship teams prepare for pressure rather than hope to avoid it. Simulate late-game scenarios and high-pressure moments in practice to help players develop the readiness to compete fear-free when it matters most. This is a core principle of **sports psychology teams**.

**Emphasize response over results.** Adversity is guaranteed every season. Stay focused on solutions rather than the setback itself. When a team responds positively to adversity, **resilience in sports** grows and team bonds deepen.

## **How to Apply This with Your Team Starting Now**

You do not need to wait for the next season to start building a **championship team mindset**. Begin this week by identifying one mental quality your team needs to strengthen. Open a conversation with your teammates or coaching staff about what daily standards would support that quality.

Small, consistent actions taken deliberately over the course of a season compound into the habits and culture that championship teams are built on. The UCLA Bruins did not win on championship weekend alone. They built that win in every practice since September.

## **Bottom Line**

Championship teams are not built by chance or by talent alone. They are built through intentional habits, shared standards, and a collective commitment to something bigger than individual success.

When athletes unite around a common goal, commit to daily improvement, trust each other, and respond to adversity with resilience, they create a culture that fosters **mental performance team sports** excellence. Teams that practice these qualities consistently give themselves the best opportunity to compete at their highest level when the biggest moments arrive.

Want to build the mental skills that championship teams share? Learn more about **mental performance coaching** at Peak Performance Sports at peaksports.com.

## **Frequently Asked Questions**

**What mental skills do championship teams have that average teams don’t?**

Championship teams consistently demonstrate seven qualities that set them apart: a common goal, daily commitment, **team confidence**, selflessness, fear-free play, resilience, and a shared vision of success. Most teams possess talent but under invest in deliberately building these **mental performance team sports** qualities.

**How does team confidence affect sports performance?**

**Team confidence** creates a collective expectation of success rather than a fear of failure. When an entire team believes in their preparation and in each other, they compete more aggressively, recover more quickly from mistakes, and perform more consistently in high-pressure situations. Confidence is contagious within a team environment.

**How can coaches develop mental toughness in their athletes?**

Coaches build **team mental toughness** by establishing clear daily standards, training players in high-pressure simulations, creating a culture of accountability and encouragement, and consistently reinforcing a respond-over-results mindset. **Sports psychology teams** research shows that intentional culture-building is more effective than relying on talent or adrenaline alone.

**What does fear-free play mean in sports?**

**Fear-free play** means competing with full commitment to executing your skills without worrying about making mistakes or losing. It does not mean being reckless. It means trusting your preparation deeply enough to compete instinctively rather than tentatively. Teams that play fear-free perform at a higher level in pressure moments than teams that play conservatively to avoid mistakes.

**How important is team vision and visualization in building a championship team?**

Vision is one of the most underused tools in **championship team mindset** development. When players consistently visualize team success and see themselves performing at a championship level, it reinforces discipline, motivation, and confidence across the entire season. UCLA’s Gabriela Jaquez credited visualization as a key part of the Bruins’ championship run, and **sports psychology teams** research strongly supports this practice.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [4 Strategies to Deal with Doubters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-deal-with-doubters/)
- [4 Mindsets to Feel Comfortable at a New Arena](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mindsets-feel-comfortable-at-a-new-arena/)
- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)

---

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Golf Psychology, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Managing High Expectations for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-high-expectations-for-athletes/)

**Published:** February 27, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/high-expectations.jpg)

## Why are Extremely High Expectations Detrimental to Peak Performance?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Why are Extremely High Expectations Detrimental to Peak Performance?](#Why_are_Extremely_High_Expectations_Detrimental_to_Peak_Performance)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

There are many misnomers regarding “**expectations**.” To understand the impact of high **expectations**, it is important to examine the term. Here’s where the confusion lies.

Some athletes equate the term “**expectations**” with the belief that something will or will not happen. In this sense, the thought process is, “If expecting to lose leads to losing, shouldn’t expecting to win bring about winning?”

Belief is crucial to peak play as long as you stay immersed in the moment and do not worry about the end result. Where **expectations** are particularly detrimental is when they are excessive or when they are associated with demands.

Excessive **expectations** refer to setting unrealistic, unattainable, or overly high standards for yourself. For example, “I need to win every tournament” or “I should never strikeout.”

These are impossible standards that place overwhelming pressure on you to perform. When those **expectations** are not met, you feel disappointed and frustrated, causing you to feel like a failure.

Processing extremely high **expectations** requires several steps:

- Redefining Success – Success isn’t just about wins, trophies, and stats; it’s also about improvement, consistency, and overcoming challenges.
- Managing External Pressure – Coaches, family, and media may have high **expectations** for you, but you don’t need to buy into those **expectations**. Stay focused on pursuing PERSONAL and REALISTIC goals.
- Focusing on Controllables – Instead of stressing over results (winning every game or never messing up), concentrate on your effort, preparation, game plan, and execution.

From an early age, Madison Keys was told she would be a future World No. 1. Keys turned pro on her 14th birthday, and, in her debut, Keys defeated world No. 81, Alla Kudryavtseva in straight sets.

However, as her career progressed, Keys fell short in her attempts to win a Grand Slam event, with defeats in one final, five semifinals. and four quarterfinals.

The high **expectations** were an extremely tough burden for Keys.

KEYS: *“I felt like from a pretty young age, I felt like if I never won a Grand Slam, then I wouldn’t have lived up to what people thought I should have been. That was a pretty heavy burden to carry around.”*

Once Keys processed those excessive **expectations** and challenged her beliefs, she was able to alleviate the pressure and play like she knew she was capable of playing.

KEYS: *“It just kind of forced me to look at myself in the mirror a little bit and try to work on the internal pressure that I was putting on myself… I finally got to the point where I was OK if it didn’t happen. I didn’t need it to feel like I had a good career or that I deserved to be talked about as a great tennis player.”*

With less pressure, Keys beat Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 at the 2025 Australian Open to win her first Grand Slam championship.

Managing **expectations** is necessary for all athletes to enable them to play freely, enjoy the game, and play to the height of their abilities.

Managing high **expectations** requires that you know their origins and how they hold you back from playing at your peak.

Are **expectations** your own or ones you adopt from others? Define the specific **expectations** in the form of shoulds… For example, “I should not make mistakes.”

Next, set aside your **expectations** and instead focus on smaller objectives such as to commit to each play call or commit to your tactics.Recognizing and overcoming unrealistic **expectations** helps reduce pressure and leads to stable confidence.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Boost Confidence by Managing Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-boost-confidence-by-managing-expectations/)
- [Pressure is Self-Induced by Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pressure-is-self-induced-by-expectations/)
- [Fear of Meeting Other’s Expectations and Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-meeting-others-expectations-and-pressure/)

---

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*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*
~Radek Sefcik, Peak Performance Sports Customer

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Athlete Expectations, Expectations in Competition

---

### [How to Break a Losing Season](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-break-a-losing-season/)

**Published:** March 27, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/break-a-losing-season.jpg)

## What Mindset Helps Turn Around a Losing Season?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Mindset Helps Turn Around a Losing Season?](#What_Mindset_Helps_Turn_Around_a_Losing_Season)
    - [A “Work-towards-a-Solution” Mindset includes:](#A_%E2%80%9CWork-towards-a-Solution%E2%80%9D_Mindset_includes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

When you are having a **losing** season, digging yourself out of that hole may seem impossible. If you accept that **losing** is inevitable, your motivation, confidence, and work ethic will drop significantly.

Not much will change if you are not committed to trying to find an answer. What happens when you are not committed to working towards a solution?

When a team takes on a negative mindset, several consequences can happen:

- **Losing** can lead to team disunity and finger-pointing. Blaming your coaches or teammates for poor play is the quickest way for your season to spiral downward.
- A lack of individual confidence can infect the team’s mindset, leading to a lack of confidence and trust.
- Overlooking personal accountability prevents you from seeing what you could do to help turn around the season.
- Negative expectations cause you to expect more of the same. Each loss, then, becomes evidence of more losses in the future.
- A **losing** season can cause some players to shift their focus from team success to prioritizing personal statistics. Selfish play erodes team chemistry.
- Some teams check out mentally when the playoffs seem out of reach. They give up before the season ends.

The question is, what needs to change to turn the season around? Turning around the season starts with a change in mindset.

You need to move from an “Expect-to-Lose” Mindset to a “Work-towards-a-Solution” Mindset.

### A “Work-towards-a-Solution” Mindset includes:

- Pulling together instead of the team drifting apart.
- Maintaining a high level of energy and effort in practice.
- Each team member takes responsibility for their attitude and efforts moving forward.
- Focusing on the present instead of past losses.
- Prioritizing team goals over personal stats.
- Keep the emphasis on improvement and view every game, practice, and training session as an opportunity for growth.
- Never give up.

Your experiences can help you build the necessary mental toughness to turn the season around.

Let’s look at an example from collegiate basketball. The University of Vermont women’s basketball team started the season 5-10. Earning a spot in the NCAA tournament looked out of reach to those outside the team.

Despite the odds, Vermont finished the season on a 16-2 run, winning the America East Conference Championship and earning a berth in the 2025 NCAA tournament.

Vermont knew that to turn the season around, they needed a new mindset. Vermont senior guard Bella Vito said the team had some serious discussions to revise their mindset and play the way they knew they were capable.

VITO: “We got tired of **losing**. We got tired of getting so close and not being able to win those close games. And as a team, we came together, and we had some tough conversations… It’s hard to have confidence when your shots aren’t going in and stuff like that. Having confidence can change the whole game.”

**Losing** streaks can erode your confidence if you let them. While negative mindsets can harm a team, the good news is you have the power to change that.

Teams that foster a positive mindset can use it to turn a season around, compete with consistency, and as a foundation for future success.

A **losing** season can feel like an uphill battle, but the key to turning things around is changing how you think about challenges. Instead of dwelling on losses, adopt a “Work-towards-a-Solution” mindset.Mindset is everything!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Mindset and Closing Out a Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-closing-out-a-game/)
- [How to Break Free From Losing Streaks ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-break-free-from-losing-streaks/)
- [Finishing Strong When Losing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/finishing-strong-when-losing/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How a Common Goal Helps Teams Overcome Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-a-common-goal-helps-teams-overcome-adversity/)

**Published:** April 3, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/overcome-adversity.jpg)

## How Do you Win in Team Sports? The Short Answer is “As a Team.”

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do you Win in Team Sports? The Short Answer is “As a Team.”](#How_Do_you_Win_in_Team_Sports_The_Short_Answer_is_%E2%80%9CAs_a_Team%E2%80%9D)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

That may sound a little bit trite, but it is absolutely true. How many times has your **team** played a game when a key player or top scorer was unavailable?

Did the absence of that player cause you anxiety before the competition? Did it affect the overall confidence as a **team**?

Many times, **teams** lean on their best player. They defer to them when the game is on the line, especially in highly meaningful or playoff games.

What happens if that player is out for the game? Some **teams** slip into panic mode. They fear they have no chance of winning when their top player is out for the game.

Before the game, they may receive a pep talk from their coach in the locker room. They want to believe they still have a good chance to win, but the tone in the locker room is one of hopelessness. Players are walking around with their heads down.

Instead of being excited for the challenge, there is a general sense that the **team** will be blown out. During warm-ups, they constantly look at the opposing **team** and the talent they are about to face.

This further exacerbates the **team’s** fear and anxiety. The reasons for this negative mindset are:

- Over-Reliance on the Top Player – Many **teams** build their game strategy around a key player throughout the season. When that person is unavailable, the game plan feels unrealistic. Many players on that **team** feel uncomfortable and unaccustomed to stepping up in high-pressure situations.
- Psychological Dependence – Some **team** players have unconsciously depended on one player throughout the season. These players doubt their ability to step it up, resulting in low **team** confidence.
- Disruption of **Team** Chemistry – The absence of a key player forces adjustments with the **team**. Many players feel unprepared for their new role in a competition. Other players may not have confidence in their teammates, affecting **team** unity and trust.
- Media & Fan Pressure – Pressure from outside sources ratchets up fear and anxiety. In recent years, cyberbullying has received significant attention.

Fans and online gamblers add to the stress players feel for fear of the negative comments on their social media accounts.

To prevent a **team** from slipping into panic mode, the **team** needs to focus on adapting to their situation, relying on their mental toughness, and trusting their training.

If you don’t think you have a chance, you have no chance at all.

In the second round of the 2025 NCAA basketball tournament, USC guard JuJu Watkins tore her ACL. Watkins was USC’s leading scorer and front-runner for the NCAA MVP award.

Many analysts quickly wrote USC off, but the **team** kept focusing on its strengths, preparation, and ability to compete.

In the Sweet 16, USC stepped up and beat Kansas State to advance to the Elite 8, 67-61 USC forward Kiki Iriafen commented that their seasonal goal has remained the same… to keep moving forward in the tournament, no matter their circumstances, and show their mental toughness.

IRIAFEN: “We just want to keep dancing, so whatever it takes is what I wanted to do, what my teammates wanted to do. I think it just shows our toughness. I loved how we played.”

When you rally around one common goal, you focus on doing what is needed to achieve the objective. This “team goal” mindset helps you prepare, focus, and compete. It’s your mindset that matters.Focus on the Collective Goal – When adversity strikes, shift your mindset to the team’s shared mission. Working toward a **team** goal strengthens mental toughness and keeps the team moving forward together.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Team Mindset and the Next-Man-Up Mentality](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/team-mindset-and-the-next-man-up-mentality/)
- [How Pro Teams Keep Winning](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-teams-keep-winning/)
- [How Pro Athletes Respond After a Team Loss ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-respond-after-a-team-loss/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Team Culture in Sports

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### [Use Self-Talk to Improve Athletic Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/use-self-talk-to-improve-athletic-performance/)

**Published:** April 10, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/self-talk-3.jpg)

## How Does Self-Talk Affect Your Game?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Does Self-Talk Affect Your Game?](#How_Does_Self-Talk_Affect_Your_Game)
    - [Negative self-talk impacts your mental game in several ways:](#Negative_self-talk_impacts_your_mental_game_in_several_ways)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Too often, athletes are dismissive of **self-talk.** Either they think **self-talk** doesn’t really impact performance, or your **self-talk** is relatively unchangeable.

However, language has a profound impact on athletes. Has a parent or coach ever told you, “You are not good enough?” Have you ever been labeled as “lazy”? Has an important figure in your life said, “You are failing to live up to your potential”?

Did any of those comments improve your confidence, enhance your self-image, or leave you feeling more positive about yourself?

Most likely, those opinions contributed to low confidence, a poor self-image, a lack of motivation, and underperformance.

To make matters worse, when you make negative statements about yourself or criticize yourself internally, the impact is amplified.

### Negative self-talk impacts your mental game in several ways:

- Constant negative internal dialogue slowly chips away at your confidence.
- Negative **self-talk** breeds performance anxiety and fear of failure.
- When you constantly put yourself down, you will feel mentally exhausted, emotionally drained, and physically tired.
- When self-criticizing during competitions, you are not focusing on what you should be doing in the moment to be maximally productive.
- Negative thoughts slow your reaction and interfere with decision-making during competitions.
- When you dwell on mistakes or bad games, the result can be longer slumps or inconsistent performance.

If you tell yourself something long enough, you will believe it. However, the reverse is also true. If you tell yourself something reassuring, positive, or productive, your confidence will grow, you will feel less anxious during competitions, and your game will significantly improve.

Positive **self-talk** does not mean lying to yourself but telling yourself objective facts such as, “I’m a hard worker,” “I will not let a bad performance beat me,” or “I got what it takes to improve my game.”

Positive **self-talk** focuses on your strengths, successes, and positive qualities. When you choose to focus on positive, productive thoughts, you will achieve positive results.

UCLA center Lauren Betts had an epic year, averaging 20.2 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.9 blocks, and being named a 2025 All-American and Naismith Defensive Player of the Year.

Bettts’ confidence was displayed throughout the 2025 NCAA Tournament as she helped lead the Bruins to the semifinals. Although, Betts has admitted she struggled with confidence in the past.

UCLA head coach Cori Close stated that confidence has previously been a mental block for Bettts.

CLOSE: “Every young person has to find what their roadblocks are, and hers has been confidence. Hers has been being too hard on herself and not believing how worthy she is.”

Betts knew she had to work to replace her negative thoughts with more positive ones.

BETTS: “I think I just kind of finally came to a conclusion, ‘What you were telling yourself \[the negative thoughts\] … obviously did you no good and you have to be better for yourself.’”

Changing your **self-talk** will not happen overnight. You need to commit to work to rewire your thoughts constantly.

For example, before each game this season, Betts wrote affirmations such as “You are amazing,” “Be confident,” and “You got this” on the scouting report she received before each game.

Shifting from negative to positive **self-talk** isn’t about ignoring weaknesses. It’s about recognizing your strengths and giving yourself positive information to help you perform better during practices and competitions.

Your **self-talk** is one of your most powerful tools as an athlete. The words you say to yourself, whether positive or negative, constructive or destructive, impact your confidence, focus, energy, and performance.Before every practice or competition, write down 1-2 positive affirmations in a visible place. Messages such as “I’m unstoppable,” “I got this,” or “Keep pushing forward” help build confidence and improve athletic performance.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How Athletes Can Use Self-Talk for Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-use-self-talk-for-performance/)
- [How this Self-Talk Hurts Athletic Potential ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-self-talk-hurts-athletic-potential/)
- [How Self-Talk Can Help You Rebound ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-self-talk-can-help-you-rebound/)

---

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*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*
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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Self-Talk, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [The Sophomore Slump for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-sophomore-slump-for-athletes/)

**Published:** April 18, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/slump.jpg)

## What is a ‘Sophomore Slump’ in Sports?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is a ‘Sophomore Slump’ in Sports?](#What_is_a_%E2%80%98Sophomore_Slump_in_Sports)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

A “sophomore slump” is when an athlete performs worse in their second season than in their first season. Sophomore slump is often used to “explain” why a player struggles to maintain their high level of performance after a strong rookie year.

In such scenarios, the sophomore slump seems to take on a mystical quality, as if it is unavoidable and unexplainable. However, if a sophomore slump was a natural occurrence, all athletes would suffer the same fate.

Underperformance in an athlete’s second year has a more plausible explanation. After a highly successful rookie season, mental factors significantly impact an athlete’s second season, such as increased pressure, self-demand for perfection, unrealistic expectations, and an over-reliance on talent above work.

By tending to these influential mental factors, you can avoid the sophomore slump altogether. The first step is to set realistic season goals and focus on the process of improving steadily through the season.

This mentality or approach is referred to as a “growth mindset.” The second step is to dedicate time to learn and develop mental skills such as building confidence, managing stress and pressure, letting go of the perfection ideal, setting realistic expectations, and committing to the work and preparation necessary to achieve your goals.

UCLA Gymnast Katelyn Rosen found early success to start her collegiate career. During her freshman year, Rosen competed in the all-around seven times and ranked as the best freshman in the Pac-12 all-around standings.

However, Rosen performed well below her expectations for the majority of her sophomore year.

ROSEN: “After having such a phenomenal dream-type freshman year, there were a lot of expectations put on me. Usually, I welcome those expectations, and I thrive under that sort of pressure. But for whatever reason this year, it kind of cracked me a bit.”

After poor performances, Rosen stepped away from competing in the floor event to work on her fundamentals, improve her mental health, and rebuild her confidence.

ROSEN: “I am someone who’s going to spiral if something goes wrong. I’m going to overanalyze it from every single angle, and that usually takes me down into a dark place that I really don’t need to be.”

Later in the season, Rosen confidently returned to competition, performed a season-high 9.875 score on her floor routine, and helped UCLA win the 2025 Big Ten Women’s Gymnastics Championships.

The “sophomore slump” concept is an excuse, a way to shed responsibility for the level of an athlete’s performance.

The key is to take back control of your season. Start by recognizing that bad luck or some predetermined phenomenon doesn’t cause underperformance.

Taking responsibility for your physical and mental training, preparation, and performance is empowering and significantly improves the likelihood of achieving your goals.

To avoid the sophomore slump trap, follow these three steps:

1. Focus on consistent growth rather than chasing perfection
2. Take nothing for granted and know that success requires work.
3. Build a strong mental game by learning effective goal-setting strategies, stress management techniques, and confidence-building habits.

These mental skills can help you consistently perform at your peak.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How Athletes Can Use Self-Talk for Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-use-self-talk-for-performance/)
- [How this Self-Talk Hurts Athletic Potential ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-self-talk-hurts-athletic-potential/)
- [How Self-Talk Can Help You Rebound ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-self-talk-can-help-you-rebound/)

---

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![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

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~Marios Kapodistria

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How Mindset Beats Physique in Athletics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-mindset-beats-physique-in-athletics/)

**Published:** May 16, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-physique.jpg)

## How Can Mindset Beat Physical Talent?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can Mindset Beat Physical Talent?](#How_Can_Mindset_Beat_Physical_Talent)
- [Mind Over Matter](#Mind_Over_Matter)
- [The “Dawg” Mentality](#The_%E2%80%9CDawg%E2%80%9D_Mentality)
- [5 Mindset Tips to Overcome Physical Disadvantages in Sports](#5_Mindset_Tips_to_Overcome_Physical_Disadvantages_in_Sports)
- [FAQ – Mental Talent v. Physical Talent](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Mental_Talent_v_Physical_Talent)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

***Summary**: While having the “prototypical body” in sports—like tall quarterbacks, long-limbed swimmers, or pitchers with big hands—can provide advantages, countless athletes have proven that mindset is the ultimate difference-maker. Kyler Murray, Hali Flickinger, Nolan Ryan, and 2025 Eagles draft pick Mac McWilliams all overcame questions about their size to compete at the highest level. Physical traits may be outside of your control, but adopting a strong competitive mindset, or “Dawg Mentality,” allows athletes to neutralize physical disadvantages and gain the edge over their competition.*

Is an athlete without the ideal physical characteristics at a disadvantage in competitive sports?

The “prototypical body” is considered a significant advantage for athletes.

Tall football quarterbacks can see over the linemen and have a better view downfield when they drop back to pass.

In swimming, long limbs provide better leverage against the water.

Baseball pitchers with larger hand sizes can generate more spin on the ball, contributing to sharper breaking pitches.

While height may be a desirable feature for quarterbacks, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray is considered undersized at 5’10” yet won the Heisman Trophy and has thrown for 115 touchdowns during his NFL career.

American swimmer Hali Flickinger (5’6″) won a bronze medal in the 200m butterfly and 400 IM at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan, considered to be one of the best pitchers in MLB history, had smaller hands than the norm for elite pitchers.

However, the so-called “perfect physical attributes” are no match for an athlete with an optimal **mindset**. A strong **mindset** provides the most significant advantage for athletes.

## Mind Over Matter

When you have an optimal competitive **mindset**, you are committed to outworking other athletes. You refuse to accept the limited views of others. You possess a “dawg mentality” where you love the challenge and the opportunity to prove others wrong.

You maximize your physical qualities and work endlessly on your mental skills. When you have an optimal competitive **mindset**, you rip away any perceived advantage from your competition and firmly secure the edge for yourself.

The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Mac McWilliams in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. At 5’10”, McWilliams is considered undersized for a cornerback by NFL standards. McWilliams heard about his short stature throughout the pre-draft process.

In fact, McWilliams has been told his entire football career that he was too short. While he knows he’s undersized, McWilliams also KNOWS he can successfully compete at the highest level. Before the Eagles’ first rookie practice, McWilliams answered questions by reporters about his height.

McWILLIAMS: “I try really not to think about it. I go out there with the same **mindset**. I’m the biggest out there. That’s how I feel. So just having that **mindset**, I really feel like it takes me (far). Since I was little, I have always been the littlest guy so just having the right **mindset**, taking everything for what it is. All my life, I knew I was going to be undersized. I knew I wasn’t going to grow as much as I wanted to. Just always having that dog in me. Just thinking above, never thinking too low.”

McWilliams’ **mindset** has been his greatest advantage, an advantage that gave him an edge even against tall wide receivers, as he proved at the 2025 Senior Bowl.

With the right **mindset**, you can neutralize nonoptimal physical qualities and gain a considerable edge over your opponents throughout your career. While you can’t control your height, limb length, or hand size, you can choose your **mindset**… And that **mindset** makes a difference, not just for you, but when you compete against taller, bigger athletes.Remember, body type is outside of your control, but **mindset** is a choice. Adopt the “Dawg Mindset” and see yourself as the one to beat on the field. Know that your **mindset** is the difference-maker and not body measurements.Is an athlete without the ideal physical characteristics at a disadvantage in competitive sports?

The “prototypical body” is considered a significant advantage for athletes.

Tall football quarterbacks can see over the linemen and have a better view downfield when they drop back to pass.

In swimming, long limbs provide better leverage against the water.

Baseball pitchers with larger hand sizes can generate more spin on the ball, contributing to sharper breaking pitches.

While height may be a desirable feature for quarterbacks, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray is considered undersized at 5’10” yet won the Heisman Trophy and has thrown for 115 touchdowns during his NFL career.

American swimmer Hali Flickinger (5’6″) won a bronze medal in the 200m butterfly and 400 IM at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan, considered to be one of the best pitchers in MLB history, had smaller hands than the norm for elite pitchers.

However, the so-called “perfect physical attributes” are no match for an athlete with an optimal **mindset**. A strong **mindset** provides the most significant advantage for athletes.

## The “Dawg” Mentality

When you have an optimal competitive **mindset**, you are committed to outworking other athletes. You refuse to accept the limited views of others. You possess a “dawg mentality” where you love the challenge and the opportunity to prove others wrong.

You maximize your physical qualities and work endlessly on your mental skills. When you have an optimal competitive **mindset**, you rip away any perceived advantage from your competition and firmly secure the edge for yourself.

The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Mac McWilliams in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. At 5’10”, McWilliams is considered undersized for a cornerback by NFL standards. McWilliams heard about his short stature throughout the pre-draft process.

In fact, McWilliams has been told his entire football career that he was too short. While he knows he’s undersized, McWilliams also KNOWS he can successfully compete at the highest level. Before the Eagles’ first rookie practice, McWilliams answered questions by reporters about his height.

McWILLIAMS: “I try really not to think about it. I go out there with the same **mindset**. I’m the biggest out there. That’s how I feel. So just having that **mindset**, I really feel like it takes me (far). Since I was little, I have always been the littlest guy so just having the right **mindset**, taking everything for what it is. All my life, I knew I was going to be undersized. I knew I wasn’t going to grow as much as I wanted to. Just always having that dog in me. Just thinking above, never thinking too low.”

McWilliams’ **mindset** has been his greatest advantage, an advantage that gave him an edge even against tall wide receivers, as he proved at the 2025 Senior Bowl.

With the right **mindset**, you can neutralize nonoptimal physical qualities and gain a considerable edge over your opponents throughout your career. While you can’t control your height, limb length, or hand size, you can choose your **mindset**… And that **mindset** makes a difference, not just for you, but when you compete against taller, bigger athletes.Remember, body type is outside of your control, but **mindset** is a choice. Adopt the “Dawg Mindset” and see yourself as the one to beat on the field. Know that your **mindset** is the difference-maker and not body measurements.

---

## 5 Mindset Tips to Overcome Physical Disadvantages in Sports

**1. Train Your Mind Like Your Body**
Physical training is important, but mental toughness training for athletes is what separates good from great. Commit to building your confidence and resilience daily, just like you would with strength or conditioning. Visualization, breathing strategies, and game-day routines can help you stay calm and focused under pressure.

**2. Focus on Your Strengths**
Instead of worrying about not fitting the “prototypical body” for your sport, double down on what you already do well. Maybe you’re quicker, more explosive, or more disciplined than your competition. Athletes who concentrate on their strengths often gain a mental edge, because they know exactly how they can impact the game.

**3. Use Self-Talk to Stay Confident**
Negative thoughts can creep in—especially if you hear constant reminders about being undersized or not fitting the mold. Positive self-talk in sports is one of the best tools to counter doubt. Create phrases you repeat before and during competition, like “I belong here” or “My speed is my strength.” This keeps your confidence steady, no matter the situation.

**4. Control What You Can**
You can’t control your height, wingspan, or hand size, but you can control your effort, preparation, and mindset. By focusing only on controllables, you strip away distractions and give yourself the best chance to perform. This approach not only builds consistency but also reinforces belief in your ability to compete.

**5. Adopt the Dawg Mentality**
The “Dawg Mindset” is about refusing to let others define your limits. Undersized athletes like Kyler Murray, Hali Flickinger, Nolan Ryan, and Mac McWilliams succeeded because they embraced challenges, outworked others, and saw themselves as the toughest competitor on the field. When you compete with a dawg mentality, you turn supposed disadvantages into fuel that drives your success.

---

## FAQ – Mental Talent v. Physical Talent

**Q: Can athletes without the ideal body type still succeed in competitive sports?**
A: Yes. While physical traits like height or limb length may help in certain sports, athletes such as Kyler Murray, Hali Flickinger, and Nolan Ryan prove that mindset, skill, and relentless work ethic matter far more in long-term success.

**Q: How does mindset impact athletic performance?**
A: A strong competitive mindset helps athletes stay confident, bounce back from mistakes, and perform under pressure. Mental skills such as visualization, positive self-talk, and focus training give athletes an edge even when they lack physical “prototypes.”

**Q: What is the Dawg Mentality in sports?**
A: The Dawg Mentality is the belief that you can compete with anyone, regardless of size or stature. It’s about confidence, toughness, and refusing to let limitations define you. Athletes with a dawg mindset see themselves as the toughest competitor on the field.

**Q: What can undersized athletes do to gain an edge?**
A: Undersized athletes can gain an edge by maximizing their strengths, committing to mental training, and focusing on controllable factors like preparation, conditioning, and effort. With consistent mental toughness training, they can neutralize physical disadvantages.

**Q: Is mental training as important as physical training for athletes?**
A: Absolutely. Physical training builds your body, but mental training strengthens your confidence, focus, and resilience. The best athletes in the world combine both to compete at the highest level.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Embracing the Underdog Mindset in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embracing-the-underdog-mindset-in-sports/)
- [Team Mindset and the Next-Man-Up Mentality](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/team-mindset-and-the-next-man-up-mentality/)
- [How to Keep a Positive Mindset for Non-Starters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-a-positive-mindset-for-non-starters/)

---

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 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How to Turn a Bad Season Around](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-a-bad-season-around/)

**Published:** May 22, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/bad-season.jpg)

## How Do Athletes Reflect After a Season?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do Athletes Reflect After a Season?](#How_Do_Athletes_Reflect_After_a_Season)
- [Honest Feedback as Improvement](#Honest_Feedback_as_Improvement)
- [4 Mental Game Tips for Season Reflection](#4_Mental_Game_Tips_for_Season_Reflection)
- [FAQ: Reflecting After a Season](#FAQ_Reflecting_After_a_Season)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

***Summary:** After a disappointing season, it can be tempting to walk away without looking back. However, honest reflection is the key to growth and future success. Athletes who take time to review both their strengths and shortcomings gain valuable feedback to guide offseason training and goal-setting. By evaluating successes, identifying weaknesses, and creating actionable offseason steps, athletes can turn a frustrating season into a launching pad for future breakthroughs.*

After an underwhelming regular season, falling short of expectations, or being eliminated in the early rounds of a playoff series, most athletes can’t wait to go home and put the season behind them.

It’s understandable to want a complete break for a while, since the season can be a grind. Many times, you will want to forget about the season as quickly as possible.

If you wait too long to evaluate your season, you may overlook some details or essential feedback that could potentially elevate your game for the next season.

Not only that, you will also lack the necessary information to establish offseason goals or a plan to set the ball in motion. To gain closure, it is best to reflect on the season.

While reviewing a season where you fell short of expectations may be uncomfortable, reflection is a powerful tool for growth. The best time for reflection is relatively soon after the season. Not only will an honest evaluation provide valuable feedback, but it will also allow you to process your emotions.

## Honest Feedback as Improvement

While your memories are still fresh, you will have the opportunity to review what went wrong, what went right, and what could be improved. This information will provide direction for your off-season workouts.

The Orlando Magic excelled in several areas during the 2024-25 NBA season, including defense, points in the paint, and recovering loose balls.

However, the Magic were ranked last in the league in 3-point shooting during the regular season. Their 3-point shooting ended up being their downfall in Round One of the playoffs.

The Magic lost the series in five games, including a 120-89 blowout in Game 5.

In Game 5, the Magic connected on only eight of 38 3-point attempts. In the series, they shot just 26.3 percent from beyond the arc.

After the game, Orlando coach Jamahl Mosley discussed the importance of taking stock of the positives and negatives throughout the season so they can begin preparing to improve and advance deeper in the playoffs next year.

MOSLEY: “We have to take the lesson. You have to reflect on it as you go forward this summer and not look at an excuse, but how do you improve for the next season. Like, what did they do so well that you gave yourself a chance, but you didn’t get over the hump. You have to be able to look back and reflect on specific things that we need to work on as players, as well as coaches, to be able to see what we need to do better and how we can get over that hump.”

While it’s tempting to walk away from a frustrating season without looking back, actual progress begins with honest reflection.

Evaluating both successes and failures soon after the season ends provides athletes and coaches with the clarity needed to set meaningful goals for the upcoming offseason.

Within a week of your season ending, take 30 minutes to reflect and evaluate your performance, either by yourself or with your coach. Write down three things that went well and three aspects to improve for the next season. Create 1-2 steps you will take during the off-season to improve, so you put yourself in a position for a breakthrough next season.

## **4 Mental Game Tips for Season Reflection**

**1. Be Honest, Not Harsh**
When reflecting, it’s easy to be overly critical and focus only on what went wrong. Instead, aim for honesty without self-judgment. For example, you might write, *“I struggled with consistency in free throws under pressure”* rather than *“I’m terrible at free throws.”* Balance this by also acknowledging what went well, such as improved defensive positioning or stronger leadership. This balanced approach helps you see the full picture and keeps reflection productive rather than discouraging.

**2. Turn Frustration into Fuel**
Falling short of expectations naturally creates frustration. The key is not to bury those emotions but to use them as motivation. If you missed the playoffs, let that disappointment inspire you to put in extra work during the off-season. For example, a baseball player who struck out too often could turn that frustration into a commitment to 100 focused swings per day. Channeling emotion into effort ensures the pain of failure becomes the spark for growth.

**3. Write it Down**
Reflection is most effective when it’s concrete. Writing down three positives and three growth areas forces you to clarify your thoughts and prevents vague conclusions like *“I just need to be better.”* For instance, instead of simply saying, *“Improve conditioning,”* write: *“Increase cardio training with two extra sprint sessions per week to stay sharp late in games.”* A written record also gives you something to revisit throughout the off-season to check progress and stay accountable.

**4. Create Action Steps Immediately**
Awareness without action doesn’t lead to growth. As soon as you identify areas for improvement, create 1–2 clear steps you can begin right away. For example, if 3-point shooting was a weakness, you might decide: *“Work with a shooting coach twice a week”* and *“Track my percentage on 100 daily 3-point attempts.”* Taking immediate action keeps momentum alive and helps you transform reflection into tangible progress, setting you up for a stronger next season.

---

## **FAQ: Reflecting After a Season**

**Q: Why is reflection important after a season?**
A: Reflection provides closure, helps you process emotions, and gives honest feedback about what went well and what needs improvement. This clarity helps athletes create focused offseason goals.

**Q: When is the best time to reflect on a season?**
A: The ideal time is within a week after the season ends, when memories are fresh. Waiting too long often leads to overlooked details and lost opportunities for growth.

**Q: What should athletes focus on during reflection?**
A: Identify three things that went well and three areas for improvement. Consider physical skills, mental approach, and tactical execution. This balance prevents athletes from focusing only on negatives.

**Q: How does reflection help set off-season goals?**
A: Honest evaluation provides a roadmap. For example, if shooting consistency was an issue, the off-season plan might include technique refinement, extra reps, or mental training to stay composed under pressure.

**Q: Can reflection prevent repeated mistakes?**
A: Yes. Reflection allows athletes to acknowledge shortcomings and address them directly, rather than carrying them into the next season unexamined.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Break a Losing Season](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-break-a-losing-season/)
- [How to Grow From Post-Season Evaluations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-from-post-season-evaluations/)
- [Mindset and The Eagles’ Losing Season](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-the-eagles-losing-season/)

---

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 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Off-Season Mindset

---

### [Use Sports Psychology to Evaluate Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/use-sports-psychology-to-evaluate-performance/)

**Published:** June 12, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/evaluate-performance.jpg)

## How Do Bad Games Hurt Confidence?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do Bad Games Hurt Confidence?](#How_Do_Bad_Games_Hurt_Confidence)
    - [How do You Define Success?](#How_do_You_Define_Success)
    - [4 Mental Game Tips for Athletes](#4_Mental_Game_Tips_for_Athletes)
    - [FAQ – Assessing Athlete Performance](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Assessing_Athlete_Performance)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

***Summary:** Discover how to evaluate athletic performance beyond stats. Shift from a pass/fail mindset to assessing effort, resilience, and teamwork. Learn from USMNT’s Brenden Aaronson, who values game influence over numbers. Ask: Did you stay composed? Did you adapt? This approach builds **stable confidence**, enhances consistency, and drives long-term growth for athletes.*

It may not be your **performance** that is problematic, but how you evaluate your **performance**. Most athletes give themselves a pass/ fail grade after a competition, usually based on statistics.

For example, a basketball player records a double-double, she might view her **performance** as successful. Conversely, if she scored 15 points but only recorded nine assists, she might give herself a failing grade.

Likewise, a tennis player may see success as a win and a loss as a failure, no matter how highly ranked their opponent. Or a hockey player may equate success with scoring one or more goals in a game. A game without a goal is then viewed as failure.

As you can guess, there is a problem with a pass/ fail grading system. With a limited view of success, your confidence will rise and fall according to whether or not you achieve a pre-ordained number.

When confidence is tied to numbers, it becomes unstable and leads to inconsistent **performance**. The issue with a limited definition of success is that it doesn’t take into account the whole picture.

A stat sheet doesn’t reflect your effort, improvement, decision-making, resilience, leadership, positive impact on your teammates, or positive aspects of your **performance**. It also doesn’t provide feedback for what went wrong and how to grow from those lessons.

### How do You Define Success?

Defining success strictly by the numbers is not a healthy or accurate way to evaluate **performance**. A better approach is to evaluate your **performance** through a wider lens.

- Did you give full effort?
- Did you stay composed under pressure?
- Did you adjust when your first strategy didn’t work?
- Did you put your teammates in a position to make plays?
- Did you implement strategies that you were working on during practices?

A **performance** evaluation that includes internal metrics helps strengthen confidence and consistency. Take, for example, USMNT and Leeds United midfielder Brenden Aaronson. During the 2025 season, Aaronson scored nine goals and two assists in 46 matches.

What you don’t see from the numbers alone is the contribution Aaronson made to Leeds United’s promotion back to the Premier League after two years in the Championship League. While not ignoring the significance of numbers, Aaronson views individual success through a broader scope.

AARONSON: “People say stats ruin the game, and in one way I kind of agree because you can partly judge a player on how many assists or goals, but you also have to look at the pre-assists or what they do throughout the game to influence it.”

How you evaluate your **performance** significantly impacts confidence, improvement, and ultimately, how much you advance your game in the future.

Shifting from a narrow, numbers-only perspective to a broader, more realistic **performance** assessment gives you a clearer, more constructive view of your overall game.

Confidence built on effort, adaptability, resilience, and growth is far more stable and the key to unlocking your potential as an athlete.

Next time you evaluate your **performance**, ask better questions:

What did I learn today? What did I do well? Where can I grow? Over time, you will notice a boost in your confidence and a greater sense of control over your athletic development.

### 4 Mental Game Tips for Athletes

Strengthen your mental approach with these four tips. They guide you to assess performance clearly, boost confidence, and promote steady growth. Each tip offers practical steps to refine your mindset and elevate your game.

**1. Look Beyond Stats**

Stop judging success by numbers alone, like goals or wins. Focus on your effort, choices, and adaptability in games. Ask: Did you stay calm under pressure? Did you apply practice strategies? This wider view builds lasting confidence and keeps your performance steady.

**2. Track Internal Progress**

Measure success with factors like resilience and teamwork. Reflect on questions: Did you lift your teammates? Did you adjust after a failed plan? These insights fuel growth and maintain your confidence, unlike stats that can mislead.

**3. Learn from Setbacks**

Treat losses or weak stats as chances to improve. Ask: What did you learn? Where can you grow? This mindset strengthens your mental toughness and helps you adapt, even against tough opponents or in high-stakes moments.

**4. Reflect After Every Game**

Build confidence by reviewing each performance. Note what you did well and where you can improve. Journal or think: Did you give full effort? How did you help your team? Regular reflection sharpens your focus and drives consistent progress.

---

### FAQ – Assessing Athlete Performance

**Why is a pass/fail grading system harmful for athletes?**

Judging performance only by stats, like goals or wins, creates unstable confidence. It ignores effort, growth, and teamwork. This narrow focus leads to inconsistent results and limits your progress.

**How can I evaluate my performance better?**

Look beyond numbers. Assess your effort, adaptability, and leadership. Ask: Did you stay composed? Did you help teammates succeed? This broader view builds stronger confidence and consistency.

**What are internal metrics, and why do they matter?**

Internal metrics include resilience, decision-making, and teamwork. They reveal your true impact in a game, unlike stats alone. Tracking these helps you grow and maintain steady performance.

**How do setbacks help me improve?**

Losses or weak stats offer lessons. Reflect on what went wrong and how to adjust. This approach strengthens your mental toughness and prepares you for future challenges.

**How does self-reflection boost my confidence?**

Reviewing your performance highlights strengths and areas to improve. Ask: What did you do well? Where can you grow? Regular reflection builds confidence based on effort, not just outcomes.

**How can I apply these tips in practice?**

After each game, review your effort and choices. Note what you learned and how you helped your team. Use these insights to set goals and refine your skills in training.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How Pro Athletes Respond After a Team Loss ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-respond-after-a-team-loss/)
- [How to Deal with an Unexpected Sports Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-an-unexpected-sports-loss/)
- [How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness, Performance

---

### [Manage Balking and Bailing in Your Sport](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/manage-balking-and-bailing-in-your-sport/)

**Published:** June 5, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, you will learn how to manage balking in your sport. We discuss strategies for how to overcome mental blocks and perform freely again. Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental performance coach who works with professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​ Improve your mindset for sports with our certified mental performance coaches. Learn more at [peaksports.com](http://peaksports.com/)

### Click to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Click to Learn More:](#Click_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How This Pro Manages Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-pro-manages-criticism/)
- [Tips to Manage Anger on the Soccer Field](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tips-to-manage-anger-on-the-soccer-field/)
- [Manage Pressure Like an Olympian](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/manage-pressure-like-an-olympian/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

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### [How to Cope with Performance Meltdowns](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/cope-with-performance-meltdowns/)

**Published:** May 29, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/performance-meltdown.jpg)

## What Happens Mentally After Performance Collapses?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Happens Mentally After Performance Collapses?](#What_Happens_Mentally_After_Performance_Collapses)
- [Learning from Failure](#Learning_from_Failure)
- [4 Mental Game Tips to Prevent Performance Meltdowns](#4_Mental_Game_Tips_to_Prevent_Performance_Meltdowns)
- [FAQ – Performance Meltdowns in Sports](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Performance_Meltdowns_in_Sports)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

***Summary**: Performance meltdowns are some of the toughest challenges athletes face—blowing a lead, collapsing under pressure, or letting mistakes snowball. These moments can leave long-lasting scars, creating fear and anxiety in future competitions. The key is not to bury these emotions but to process them, learn from mistakes, and use setbacks as fuel for growth. Resilience comes from learning, not avoiding failure.*

Have you ever had a competition where you imploded towards the end after having a comfortable lead?

**Performance** **meltdowns** can have a deep imprint on an athlete’s mind, especially when victory seems imminent. Memories of these catastrophic losses create intense emotions that some athletes find difficult to move past.

After such an event, these athletes tend to shut down because dealing with these emotions is overwhelming. So those emotions are buried deep inside.

Unfortunately, those memories and emotions often resurface when an athlete faces similar competitive circumstances. Let’s look at a couple of scenarios from different sports.

Scenario #1: A baseball team has a three-run lead in the ninth inning in game one of a playoff series. The manager brings in the closer, who manages to strike out the first two hitters. The pitcher walks the next batter and slowly starts losing control of his pitches, throwing some in the dirt or over the catcher’s head.

He walks the next two batters to load the bases. Fearing another walk, he throws the first pitch straight over the plate, and the batter drives it over the centerfield wall for a grand slam and the first loss of the series. This meltdown haunts the pitcher for the rest of the series.

Scenario #2: A gymnast competed at a national championship in the all-around. However, the week prior, she had a nasty landing on the vault. She began the national meet by nailing her floor and beam routines. After two events, she was comfortably in first place.

As she prepared for her vault, memories of the previous week came flooding back. She felt so rattled that she was practically frozen before her run-up.

These scenarios happen in all sports, and the memories of these events can haunt athletes. The memory of being so close to victory and watching it slip away can lead to doubts and **performance** anxiety in similar high-stakes moments.

Failure to process the competitive event can cause you to carry fear of a repeat **performance** in your next competition without realizing it.

## Learning from Failure

The key is to learn from past events, so you can improve and move forward. As the saying goes, “Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”

In Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Conference Finals, the New York Knicks had a nine-point lead over the Indiana Pacers with 59 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, the Knicks collapsed towards the end of the game and allowed the Pacers to tie the game at the buzzer.

The Pacers went on to win in overtime, 138-135. For the Knicks, their game deteriorated quickly as the team was plagued with defensive mistakes, turnovers, and missed opportunities.

After the game, Knicks guard OG Anunoby put the game in perspective and talked about the importance of focusing forward.

ANUNOBY: “The series just started. Just one game, just watch the film, learn from it, and go from there.”

Knicks small forward Josh Hart highlighted how learning from the game will help the Knicks avoid repeating the same mistakes.

HART: “I feel like defensively, we let off the gas. Intensity and \[physicality\] weren’t there. Offensively, we were playing slower, a little stagnant. And looked like we were playing not to lose. We’ve got to make sure we don’t make that mistake again.”

**Performance** collapses can leave long-lasting imprints on an athlete’s mindset, especially when defeat comes when victory was in sight. If left unprocessed, memories of meltdowns can quietly sabotage future **performances**.

However, by recognizing the cause of the meltdown and identifying strategies to prevent similar mistakes, you can build resilience, develop stronger coping mechanisms, and regain confidence in pressure situations.

The goal is not forgetting what happened, but learning from it and using it to grow your game.

After a tough loss, take time to reflect. What happened during the competition? What can you do differently or better in the next competition? What physical, mental, technical, or tactical skills can improve your game?Afterwards, spend time visualizing yourself implementing your adjustments effectively and successfully. These two steps help you process your emotions and give you confidence in your ability to lift your game in future competitions.

## 4 Mental Game Tips to Prevent Performance Meltdowns

**1. Process, Don’t Bury Emotions**
After a tough loss, resist the urge to ignore it. Take time to reflect, write down what happened, and identify what triggered the collapse. Processing emotions prevents them from resurfacing in future high-pressure moments.

**2. Shift from “Playing Not to Lose” to “Playing to Win”**
When athletes get conservative, they tighten up. Instead, focus on aggressive, confident play. Use cues like *“attack the moment”* or *“trust my training”* to stay in a winning mindset.

**3. Reframe Failure as Feedback**
Every mistake is information. Ask yourself: *What can this teach me?* By reframing setbacks as lessons, you reduce fear and build resilience that carries into the next competition.

**4. Use Visualization to Prepare for Pressure**
Rehearse tough scenarios in your mind—closing out a game, sticking a landing, or making a key free throw. Visualize yourself staying calm, adjusting quickly, and executing with confidence so you’re ready when the real moment comes.

---

## **FAQ – Performance Meltdowns in Sports**

**Q: What is a performance meltdown in sports?**
A: A performance meltdown happens when an athlete or team collapses under pressure, often after being in a strong position to win. These collapses are usually triggered by fear, anxiety, or past negative experiences resurfacing in critical moments.

**Q: Why do athletes struggle to move past meltdowns?**
A: Meltdowns leave strong emotional imprints. Athletes often bury these emotions instead of processing them, which can cause fear of repeating the same mistakes. When similar situations arise, old memories resurface and undermine confidence.

**Q: How can athletes learn from failure?**
A: The key is reflection and adjustment. Athletes should take time to review what went wrong, identify physical, technical, or mental factors that contributed, and create a plan to improve. Using setbacks as lessons builds resilience and prevents repeat performances.

**Q: What role does mindset play in bouncing back?**
A: Mindset is critical. Athletes who see meltdowns as learning opportunities rather than proof of inadequacy are more likely to recover and perform better in the future. A growth mindset transforms failures into stepping stones.

**Q: What’s a practical strategy to recover from a meltdown?**
A: After reflecting on the event, athletes can use visualization to rehearse handling similar situations with confidence. Mentally practicing composure, execution, and adjustments helps athletes feel prepared and rebuilds trust in their abilities.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Mental Game Strategies to Overcome Defeat](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-strategies-to-overcome-defeat/)
- [Team Mindset and the Next-Man-Up Mentality](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/team-mindset-and-the-next-man-up-mentality/)
- [Mental Toughness in Poor Weather Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-in-poor-weather-conditions/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Mental Performance Tips for Sports Parents ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-performance-tips-for-sports-parents/)

**Published:** May 15, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, we help sports parents separate the athlete from the person. We discuss how to help athletes not be defined by just their sports performance.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental performance coach who works with professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​ Improve your mindset for sports with our certified mental performance coaches. Learn more at [peaksports.com](http://peaksports.com/).

### Listen to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Listen to Learn More:](#Listen_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How This Pro Manages Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-pro-manages-criticism/)
- [Tips to Manage Anger on the Soccer Field](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tips-to-manage-anger-on-the-soccer-field/)
- [Manage Pressure Like an Olympian](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/manage-pressure-like-an-olympian/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Parents Expectations for Athletes, Sports Parents

---

### [4 Ways Athletes Can Build a Competitive Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-athletes-can-build-a-competitive-mindset/)

**Published:** July 3, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/build-a-competitive-mindset-1.jpg)

## How Do you Develop a Personal Competitive Mindset?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do you Develop a Personal Competitive Mindset?](#How_Do_you_Develop_a_Personal_Competitive_Mindset)
    - [4 Ways to Build a Competitive Mindset in Sports](#4_Ways_to_Build_a_Competitive_Mindset_in_Sports)
    - [1. Create a Personal Cue](#1_Create_a_Personal_Cue)
    - [2. Learn to Love Pressure](#2_Learn_to_Love_Pressure)
    - [3. Compete Daily](#3_Compete_Daily)
    - [4. Review and Reflect](#4_Review_and_Reflect)
    - [Take Ownership of Your Mindset](#Take_Ownership_of_Your_Mindset)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

The concept of a competitive mindset is both interesting and confusing. While athletes recognize that the competitive mindset is key to unlocking success, misperceptions about this mindset often prevent athletes from taking steps to develop it.

Misnomers About the Competitive Mindset

- You’re either born with it or you’re not. While some people may show early signs of competitiveness, your mindset is not fixed.

- You can’t learn to be competitive. Just like technical and mental skills can be improved upon, so can your mindset be enhanced if you are willing to put in the time and effort to develop it.

- It’s something only elite athletes have. Many people view the competitive mindset as reserved for elite athletes. The truth is that elite athletes become elite because they have shaped, trained, and developed their mindset over time. And so can you!

Your mindset is a mental approach that pushes you to embrace challenges, rise to the moment, and perform under pressure. In other words, your mindset is a personal belief system that impacts performance. Since beliefs are learned patterns of thought, you can choose to reshape your mindset by modifying your thought process.

Wide receiver Kyle Williams was selected in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. The jump from collegiate football to the NFL is immense, and there is no guarantee for mid-round picks.

To make the transition to success at the next level, Williams understands he needs to pay attention to honing his competitive mindset as much as he does his speed, route running, and pass-catching skills.

Williams has developed an interesting strategy to continue building his competitive mindset: a cue phrase that reminds him of how he wants to compete against the best players in his sport.

Williams knows that the best NFL wide receivers earn big money. Williams wants that big payday, too. So, Williams’s mindset is to view the football as a bag of money, and his livelihood depends on catching it.

WILLIAMS: “*My mindset is don’t drop the money. Every time the ball is there, it’s a bag of money. We can’t let that hit the floor, because \[then\] that’s somebody else’s. Just being able to make those plays, just showing that I can compete against those top-tier guys in the league.”*

Developing a competitive mindset is an active process. It requires identifying how you want to compete, then intentionally training your mind to perform accordingly.

### **4 Ways to Build a Competitive Mindset in Sports**

Every athlete dreams of rising to the occasion when the moment matters most. But the difference between hoping you’ll compete well and actually showing up with intensity is your mindset.

The best athletes train their minds like they train their bodies. Here are four powerful ways to **build a competitive mindset** and set yourself apart in any sport.

### **1. Create a Personal Cue**

Your mindset can flip in an instant with the right words. Creating a personal cue is one of the simplest and most effective ways to control your competitive fire.

A personal cue is a short, powerful phrase you repeat to yourself to remind you how you want to compete. It might be something like “Crush the Competition,” “Attack Every Play,” or “Don’t Wait. Dominate.”

Choose words that get your energy up and sharpen your focus. Repeat them before big moments, after mistakes, or when you start to hesitate. This will help you quickly reset your mindset and remind you of the attitude you want to bring.

Personal cues keep you locked in and help you **build a competitive mindset** every time you step into the arena.

### **2. Learn to Love Pressure**

Pressure makes many athletes tighten up. But champions see pressure as an opportunity. They learn to love it.

When you see pressure as a threat, your body tenses, your mind races, and you second-guess yourself. But when you view pressure as a chance to showcase your skills, you’ll perform with confidence.

Remind yourself: pressure means you’re in a meaningful situation. You worked hard to get here. Embrace it. Smile at it. Use it as fuel.

Shift your perspective on pressure and you’ll consistently compete at your highest level. This mindset shift is essential to **build a competitive mindset** and thrive under stress.

### **3. Compete Daily**

Competitiveness isn’t something you turn on only during games. It’s something you build every day.

The best athletes look for chances to compete in every practice, drill, or training session. Race a teammate during sprints. Challenge yourself to hit a new personal best in the weight room. Play to win in small-sided games.

Daily competition trains you to stay sharp, push your limits, and get comfortable in the competitive environment. Over time, this daily habit makes you fearless when the real competition starts.

To **build a competitive mindset**, don’t wait for game day. Bring your competitive spirit to every rep, every set, every day.

### **4. Review and Reflect**

Building mental toughness doesn’t stop when practice or a game ends. Taking time to reflect after every session helps you identify what went well and where you can improve.

Ask yourself honest questions such as whether you backed down at any point, how you handled pressure, and if your mindset aligned with the way you want to compete.

This kind of self-reflection turns every experience into a chance to learn and grow. It ensures you stay intentional about how you want to show up.

Consistent reflection is one of the most underrated ways to **build a competitive mindset** and keep improving your mental game.

### **Take Ownership of Your Mindset**

If you want to separate yourself from the competition, don’t leave your mindset to chance. Create a personal cue, learn to love pressure, compete daily, and review your mindset regularly.

Use these strategies to **build a competitive mindset** so you’re always ready to give your best when it matters most.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Golf Podcast: Embracing Nerves Before Competitive Rounds](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/golf-podcast-embracing-nerves-before-competitive-rounds/)
- [Competitive Self-Confidence Really Matters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/competitive-self-confidence-really-matters/)
- [6 Steps to Mentally Recover from a Tough Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-recover-from-a-tough-loss/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mindset in Sports, Mindset of Athletes

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### [4 Ways to Bounce Back from Losing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-way-to-bounce-back-from-losing/)

**Published:** July 10, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Bounce Back from a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/bounce-back-from-losing.jpg)Bounce Back from a Loss

## How do Pro Athletes Bounce Back After Losing?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do Pro Athletes Bounce Back After Losing?](#How_do_Pro_Athletes_Bounce_Back_After_Losing)
    - [4 Ways a Competition Loss Can Actually Make You Better](#4_Ways_a_Competition_Loss_Can_Actually_Make_You_Better)
    - [1. Losses Expose Flaws You Need to Fix](#1_Losses_Expose_Flaws_You_Need_to_Fix)
    - [2. Losses Force You to Re-Evaluate Your Mindset](#2_Losses_Force_You_to_Re-Evaluate_Your_Mindset)
    - [3. Losses Can Serve as an Opportunity for Reevaluation](#3_Losses_Can_Serve_as_an_Opportunity_for_Reevaluation)
    - [4. Losses Build Mental Toughness](#4_Losses_Build_Mental_Toughness)
    - [Final Thoughts](#Final_Thoughts)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [Virtual Sports Psychology for Athletes](#Virtual_Sports_Psychology_for_Athletes)

*Summary: Pro athletes **bounce back after losing a game** by learning from it. They look at what went wrong and where they can improve. They use the loss as motivation to work harder. They check their mindset and reset their goals. Instead of dwelling on the past, they focus on what’s next. This helps them build confidence and mental toughness.*

Is it possible to benefit from losing a game? In sports, losing is often seen as a failure. But it can also be a valuable experience in an athlete’s growth.

Unfortunately, many athletes never move past the anger, frustration, or sadness to learn from a loss. Dwelling on the disappointment of a loss intensifies negative emotions and imprints that loss on your mind.

When you lose a competition and fail to learn from it, you lose twice. You lose the game and miss the chance to improve your preparation and skills for the next competition.

While you can learn from victories, losses can reveal deficiencies in your mental game, preparation, game-planning, conditioning, and technical skills.

There is no doubt that handling competition defeats can be tough, especially if the loss is a major competition. However, losses can force you to pause, reflect, and reset. When you extract lessons from a loss, you will fuel motivation and bounce back stronger.

In the 2025 WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Final, the Minnesota Lynx not only lost to the Indiana Fever, but were dominated in all aspects of the game. The 74-59 defeat was Minnesota’s first home game of the season.

The Lynx, who won the 2024 Commissioner’s Cup, were the favorites to repeat. However, Minnesota underperformed, scoring a season-low 27 first-half points and finishing with a season-low 59 points for the game.

After the game, Minnesota forward Alanna Smith stated the loss, while disappointing, is an opportunity for the team to grow and reset for a championship run.

SMITH: “*It’s good to look at it as a learning opportunity with a growth mindset. We always want to play our best basketball, so we have to take this game to heart and learn … and make sure we don’t do this again.”*

Smith’s response reflects a championship mindset. This mindset acknowledges that losses can be painful, but it focuses on improvement through feedback.

When you embrace the lessons hidden in losses, you will position yourself to respond with greater clarity, focus, and purpose. That’s true mental toughness!

### **4 Ways a Competition Loss Can Actually Make You Better**

Most individuals find losing to be an unwelcome experience. However, when approached constructively, a loss in competition can significantly contribute to the development of one’s skills.

It is common to experience feelings of frustration, embarrassment, or self-doubt following a defeat. Nonetheless, taking time for reflection may reveal valuable insights that victories do not always provide.

Below are four ways to help you **bounce back from a loss** and strategies for leveraging them to improve future performance.

### **1. Losses Expose Flaws You Need to Fix**

When you’re winning, it’s easy to overlook the little mistakes. But a loss? That brings everything into the light.

Did you lose focus? Did your strategy fall apart? Were your nerves too much to handle? These questions aren’t meant to bring you down—they’re tools to make you better.

After a competition loss, sit down with your coach, or even just with a notebook. Ask yourself: What went wrong? Where can I improve? What would I do differently next time?

Now you have a clear, specific plan bounce backing from a loss. That’s how athletes level up.

### **2. Losses Force You to Re-Evaluate Your Mindset**

Mindset matters as much as training. **Bounce back from losing** offers a chance to reflect: Did you assume you’d win or quit when challenged? Did fear of failure stop you?

A loss can foster a growth mindset—believing you can improve with effort and feedback. Replace “I’m not good enough” with “I’m not there yet, but I’m working on it.” This attitude supports long-term success.

### **3. Losses Can Serve as an Opportunity for Reevaluation**

Occasionally, experiencing a setback provides valuable perspective and reinforces your motivation to pursue your objectives with renewed diligence and strategic planning.

It is not necessary to abandon all of your previous efforts; instead, take time to reflect and reassess your approach. Consider questions such as: Which goals are currently most important?

Am I remaining consistent with my core objectives? What elements of my routine require adjustment? This process of reevaluation can restore your focus and provide renewed momentum. Leverage setbacks as a catalyst for positive change.

### **4. Losses Build Mental Toughness**

Every great athlete has been knocked down. What makes them great is they get back up and **bounce back from the loss**. A competition loss teaches you how to deal with adversity. It shows you that pain doesn’t last, but your response does.

When you keep showing up after disappointment—when you train even after a hard loss—you build grit. That mental toughness? It’s what helps you win close games, bounce back from mistakes, and stay calm under pressure.

### **Final Thoughts**

Losing doesn’t mean you’re a failure. It means you’re human—and you’re learning. Next time you face a competition loss, focus on **how you will bounce back**. Reflect. Reset. Grow. Then get back out there.
Losing is tough—but it can help you grow. A loss can reveal your weaknesses, sharpen your focus, and build mental toughness. Don’t waste time dwelling on the result. Learn from it. Adjust your mindset, reset your goals, and get back to work. Great athletes **bounce back stronger.** Let your response define you—not the loss.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Break a Losing Season](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-break-a-losing-season/)
- [Mindset and Closing Out a Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-closing-out-a-game/)
- [How to Break Free From Losing Streaks ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-break-free-from-losing-streaks/)

---

### [Virtual Sports Psychology for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

Tired of under performing in competition? Frustrated with not performing up to your potential? Get expert online **mental performance coaching** with our certified mental game coaching from anywhere in the world via video conference.

You can improve your mental game with Mental Game Coaching. We have three levels of programs – bronze, silver, and gold (one to six months). You can opt for one-on-one sessions with a **certified mental performance coach** in Orlando, Florida, or you can get coaching from anywhere in the world via Zoom, Facetime, Skype or phone!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Losing in Sports, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [5 Ways Athletes Can Deal with Critics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-athletes-can-deal-with-critics/)

**Published:** July 17, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/deal-with-critics.jpg)How to Deal with Critics

## How Do Mentally Tough Athletes Handle Naysayers?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do Mentally Tough Athletes Handle Naysayers?](#How_Do_Mentally_Tough_Athletes_Handle_Naysayers)
    - [5 Strategies for Athletes to Deal with the Naysayers ](#5_Strategies_for_Athletes_to_Deal_with_the_Naysayers)
    - [1. Don’t Buy In](#1_Dont_Buy_In)
    - [2. Filter the Feedback](#2_Filter_the_Feedback)
    - [3. Create a Confidence Habit](#3_Create_a_Confidence_Habit)
    - [4. Use Negativity to Fuel Your Performance](#4_Use_Negativity_to_Fuel_Your_Performance)
    - [5. Build a Positive Inner Circle](#5_Build_a_Positive_Inner_Circle)
    - [Mastering How Athletes Deal with Critics](#Mastering_How_Athletes_Deal_with_Critics)
    - [FAQ – How Athletes Handle Criticism and Naysayers ](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_How_Athletes_Handle_Criticism_and_Naysayers)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [Virtual Sports Psychology for Athletes](#Virtual_Sports_Psychology_for_Athletes)

*Mentally tough athletes know how to handle criticism. Instead of letting negativity affect their game, they stay focused on preparation, confidence, and growth. They learn to filter feedback, use doubt as motivation, and surround themselves with positive influences. Whether it’s media noise, trash talk, or pressure from others, elite athletes block it out and keep chasing their goals. Confidence on the inside always beats doubt from the outside.*

Have you ever faced critics during your athletic journey?

How did you respond when people said you weren’t good enough or had no chance of winning?

Naysayers are inevitable. In sports, critics, doubters, and negative individuals are everywhere.

When you give too much weight to the words of naysayers, stress increases, and performance blocks can set in.

Learning **how to deal with naysayers** is crucial for maintaining high confidence and performingat your peak. When you develop the mental skills to block out the noise, you become mentally stronger and a more focused athlete.

The most successful athletes don’t allow the critics to define them; instead, they stay focused on their purpose and accomplishing their goals.

At the 2025 Club World Cup, Chelsea FC stunned Paris Saint-Germain FC, 3-0 in the championship final. Not many people gave the young Chelsea team a chance against Paris Saint-Germain FC, the 2025 Champions League winners.

Even during the Premier League season, Chelsea was written off by many, and a mid-season slump led to even more criticism. However, Chelsea finished the Premier League season strong and sealed a Champions League spot with a top-four finish. Chelsea eventually went on to winthe Europa Conference League.

After their Club World Cup victory, Chelsea forward and Club World Cup Player of the Tournament, Cole Palmer, responded to the critics.

PALMER: *“Everyone has talked a lot of sh-t about us all season. It is a great feeling to win this. Before the game, everyone doubted us, and that makes this win even better.”*

Palmer commented that the team’s confidence had more power than the negative comments of the naysayers.

PALMER: *“We are building something special here, something important here. We have a young team with plenty of potential. I feel we are going in the right direction and can go on and win a lot more in the future if we keep going this way.”*

All athletes encounter critics, but the important thing is to remain focused on your goals, preparation, skills, and strengths.

Always keep in mind that confidence on the inside beats doubt from the outside.

### **5 Strategies for Athletes to Deal with the Naysayers** 

Every athlete faces critics. Whether it’s coaches, teammates, fans, or even strangers, negative voices are part of the game. How you handle those voices can make or break your mental edge.

If you want to learn how athletes deal with critics, here are five effective strategies to protect your mindset and keep your focus strong.

### **1. Don’t Buy In**

Critics often project their own fears and limitations onto you. Their words say more about them than about your ability.

When you hear negativity, don’t absorb it. Let those critics stew in their own doubts. Instead, focus on your mindset. Prepare well. Take positive action.

Remember, mindset, preparation, and consistent effort always win over harsh words.

### **2. Filter the Feedback**

Not all criticism is bad. Some of it can help you improve.

When someone criticizes you, ask yourself, “Is there anything useful here?” Maybe it’s something to fix in your technique or your attitude.

If the feedback doesn’t help your game, ignore it and move on. Don’t waste energy on noise that doesn’t add value.

### **3. Create a Confidence Habit**

Confidence is your mental armor. When you build it daily, critics lose power over you.

Commit to growing your confidence every day. Use positive self-talk, visualization, and reminders of past successes.

With strong confidence, the opinions of others become background noise — not distractions.

### **4. Use Negativity to Fuel Your Performance**

You can’t stop critics from talking. But you can choose how to respond.

Use negative comments as motivation. Turn their words into fuel to prove them wrong. Use that energy to push harder, train smarter, and perform better.

Let critics become your personal bulletin board — a reminder of why you’re grinding.

### **5. Build a Positive Inner Circle**

Who you surround yourself with matters. Surround yourself with teammates, coaches, friends, and family who believe in you.

A strong support system protects your confidence and cancels out the noise from critics.

Positive voices reinforce your mindset, keep you accountable, and remind you of your worth.

### **Mastering How Athletes Deal with Critics**

Criticism is inevitable in sports. But how you handle it is your choice.

Don’t buy into negativity. Filter out unhelpful feedback. Build daily confidence habits. Use negativity as motivation. And surround yourself with positive people.

These strategies show you how athletes deal with critics to stay focused, confident, and motivated.

When you apply them, critics become powerless — and your performance shines. Now, go out there and let your game speak louder than their words.

### **FAQ – How Athletes Handle Criticism and Naysayers** 

Q: Why is it important for athletes to learn **how to deal with critics**?

A: Dealing with critics is essential because constant negativity can impact confidence, focus, and performance. Mentally tough athletes know how to block out the noise and stay committed to their goals and preparation.

Q: How can criticism affect an athlete’s mindset?

A: Criticism can increase stress, create doubt, and lead to mental blocks if not managed well. Athletes who internalize negativity may lose confidence and struggle to perform under pressure.

Q: What strategies help athletes handle negative comments?

A: Key strategies include filtering feedback, building daily confidence habits, using negative comments as motivation, and surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people.

Q: Can criticism ever be helpful for athletes?

A: Yes, if the feedback is constructive and focused on improvement, it can help athletes make necessary adjustments. The key is learning to separate useful advice from harmful negativity.

Q: How do mentally strong athletes stay confident under pressure?

A: They develop consistent confidence habits, such as positive self-talk, visualization, and focusing on strengths. This mental armor helps them stay grounded, regardless of outside opinions.

Q: What role does a support system play in handling criticism?

A: A strong inner circle of coaches, teammates, and family reinforces belief and cancels out external negativity. Positive influences help athletes stay focused, motivated, and mentally tough.

Q: How did Chelsea FC and Cole Palmer respond to critics?

A: Despite being doubted all season, Chelsea FC won the Club World Cup. Cole Palmer said the criticism fueled the team’s confidence and made victory even sweeter, proving that belief within the team mattered more than outside noise.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Cope with Performance Meltdowns](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/cope-with-performance-meltdowns/)
- [Mindset and Talent as Predictors for Athletic Success ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-talent-as-predictors-for-athletic-success/)
- [4 Ways Athletes Can Build a Competitive Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-athletes-can-build-a-competitive-mindset/)

---

### [Virtual Sports Psychology for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

Tired of under performing in competition? Frustrated with not performing up to your potential? Get expert online **mental performance coaching** with our certified mental game coaching from anywhere in the world via video conference.

You can improve your mental game with Mental Game Coaching. We have three levels of programs – bronze, silver, and gold (one to six months). You can opt for one-on-one sessions with a **certified mental performance coach** in Orlando, Florida, or you can get coaching from anywhere in the world via Zoom, Facetime, Skype or phone!

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 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [4 Mindsets to Feel Comfortable at a New Arena](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mindsets-feel-comfortable-at-a-new-arena/)

**Published:** July 25, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/new-competition-venues.jpg)New Competition Venue

## How do Athletes Get Comfortable with a New Arena?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do Athletes Get Comfortable with a New Arena?](#How_do_Athletes_Get_Comfortable_with_a_New_Arena)
- [4 Ways to Feel Comfortable at a New Arena](#4_Ways_to_Feel_Comfortable_at_a_New_Arena)
    - [1. Perform a Walk-Through](#1_Perform_a_Walk-Through)
    - [2. Visualize Your Performance](#2_Visualize_Your_Performance)
    - [3. Use Relaxation Strategies](#3_Use_Relaxation_Strategies)
    - [4. Be Prepared](#4_Be_Prepared)
- [Conclusion](#Conclusion)
- [FAQ – Competing in a New Arena](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Competing_in_a_New_Arena)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [Virtual Sports Psychology for Athletes](#Virtual_Sports_Psychology_for_Athletes)

Summary: *New competition environments can increase anxiety by removing the sense of control
athletes rely on. Unfamiliar surroundings can disrupt focus and shake confidence, even for
seasoned competitors. National champion Amanda Vestri emphasized how course familiarity
helped her manage effort and stick to her strategy during her 6K championship win. Getting
comfortable in a new setting is a key mental skill that boosts confidence and performance*.

Do you become anxious when competing in a **new competition venue**? Stepping into a new competition arena, whether it’s a stadium, court, field, pool, or course, can be nerve-wracking and overwhelming.

The unfamiliar and unknown bring about anxiety. When you are in a new environment, it removes the sense of control you usually rely on to feel prepared. Instead of focusing on your competition strategy, you may be worried about the “unexpected.”

The unknown can make even the most prepared athletes feel unsettled or thrown off their rhythm.

However, learning how to adapt quickly and feel comfortable in unfamiliar, competitive settings is a powerful mental skill. It allows you to stay focused, trust your preparation, and get into the flow of the competition sooner.

When you become familiar with the unfamiliar, you will compete with more confidence and resilience and perform at your peak no matter where you compete.

National champion runner Amanda Vestri understands the importance of developing a comfort level before each 6K road race.

At the 2025 USA Track and Field Women’s 6K Championship, Vestri won her first national title. Vestri grabbed the lead after the first mile and won in 18:28.57, almost seven seconds ahead of the field. The victory was Vestri’s first since March 2024.

Vestri stated that her familiarity with Canton’s 6K road course helped her feel comfortable with the course and increased her confidence in the process.

VESTRI: *“Just knowing the course, the turns and the elevation helps a lot, There’s a decent sized hill right after two miles. You have to grind it a little bit. After that, it’s a pretty nice downhill the rest of the way.”*

Vestri’s course familiarity enabled her to focus on her race strategy and manage her effort, instead of worrying about what the course would bring next.

VESTRI: *“Toward the end, I was getting pretty hot. It started to get a little bit too warm. I really just tried to manage my effort throughout the race. The last 1K was probably the hardest part, but overall it was a good effort.”*

**New competitive venue** present new challenges. Therefore, it’s essential to get a feel for your surroundings to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

By learning to manage the unknown and stay focused on what you can control, you give yourself the best chance to perform at your peak.

## **4 Ways to Feel Comfortable at a New Arena**

### **1. Perform a Walk-Through**

Arrive early. Walk around the facility. Check the layout, field, warm-up area, restrooms, and entrances. The more familiar you are, the less uncertainty you feel. Use the time to settle in and get comfortable. This lowers anxiety and helps you focus on your performance.

### **2. Visualize Your Performance**

Close your eyes and picture the environment. See yourself walking into the facility feeling calm and confident. Then, mentally walk through your performance. Visualize each step of your routine or game plan. Use this to build certainty and trust in your preparation. Visualization helps your brain rehearse success before you compete.

### **3. Use Relaxation Strategies**

Unfamiliar settings can increase physical tension and mental stress. Use a short breathing routine to calm your body. Try progressive muscle relaxation to reduce tightness. Use self-talk to remind yourself you’re ready and prepared. These techniques help you stay composed and in control.

### **4. Be Prepared**

Pack everything you need the night before. Double-check your uniform, shoes, equipment, water, and snacks. Know the directions to the venue. Plan extra time for traffic or delays. Rushing creates pressure you can avoid. Preparation helps you feel confident and organized when you arrive.

## **Conclusion**

You can’t always control the venue, but you can control how you prepare. Use strategies like walk-throughs, visualization, relaxation, and pre-event planning to reduce anxiety. When you take steps to feel comfortable in unfamiliar settings, you give yourself the best chance to stay focused and compete at your highest level.

## **FAQ – Competing in a New Arena**

**Why do I feel more anxious in a new competition environment?**
Unfamiliar settings remove the comfort and control you’re used to. This uncertainty shifts your focus from your strategy to the unknown, which increases anxiety.

**How does familiarity with a course or arena help performance?**
Familiarity reduces mental distractions. When you know the layout, you can focus on execution instead of reacting to surprises.

**What should I do when I can’t visit the venue before the event?**
Study maps, photos, or videos of the venue. Visualize yourself there and rehearse your routine. Mental preparation still builds comfort.

**What are quick ways to reduce nerves before competing?**
Use controlled breathing. Repeat calming self-talk. Focus on your pre-performance routine. These tools help center your attention.

**Why is arriving early important?**
It gives you time to get settled, adjust to the environment, and avoid feeling rushed. Feeling in control early helps calm nerves.

**Can these strategies work for any sport?**
Yes. Whether you’re running a race, playing a match, or performing a routine, preparation and mental comfort help you compete with more confidence.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Embracing the Underdog Mindset in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embracing-the-underdog-mindset-in-sports/)
- [How to Break a Losing Season](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-break-a-losing-season/)
- [How a Common Goal Helps Teams Overcome Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-a-common-goal-helps-teams-overcome-adversity/)

---

### [Virtual Sports Psychology for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

Tired of under performing in competition? Frustrated with not performing up to your potential? Get expert online **mental performance coaching** with our certified mental game coaching from anywhere in the world via video conference.

You can improve your mental game with Mental Game Coaching. We have three levels of programs – bronze, silver, and gold (one to six months). You can opt for one-on-one sessions with a **certified mental performance coach** in Orlando, Florida, or you can get coaching from anywhere in the world via Zoom, Facetime, Skype or phone!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.facebook.com/PeakPerformanceSports) [ ![social network 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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [How to Stay Confident During Cold Weather](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-confident-during-cold-weather/)

**Published:** April 15, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode you will learn how to prepare to play in cold weather. We discuss how to maintain motivation and confidence to play in tough weather conditions.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

- [How to Improve Athletic Confidence in Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-athletic-confidence-in-athletes/)
- [Improving Resilience in Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improving-resilience-in-athletes/)
- [Managing High Expectations for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-high-expectations-for-athletes/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Turning a Losing Team into a Winning Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/losing-team-into-a-winning-team/)

**Published:** February 6, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/winning-team.jpg)

## What Does it Take to Develop a Winning Culture in Team Sports?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Does it Take to Develop a Winning Culture in Team Sports?](#What_Does_it_Take_to_Develop_a_Winning_Culture_in_Team_Sports)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

A winning sports culture is an environment where success is consistently pursued and expected. A winning culture is a combination of positive attitudes, disciplined efforts, team-first focus, and productive habits.

When a team has a winning culture, they can work through adversity in order to achieve excellence given their circumstances.

But how about a team on a losing streak? Can they have a winning culture?

When athletes experience a long-term slump, they can get stuck in negativity and counterproductive feelings such as frustration, anger, resignation, and sadness.

The longer the losing streak occurs, players can focus on the accumulation of losses and forget what it takes to win. It can affect a team’s motivation, work ethic, and overall confidence.

To reestablish a winning culture during a slump, it is first necessary to regain what it feels like to win, which has several benefits:

- **Boosts Confidence** – Reflecting on past victories strengthens the belief that success is achievable, aiding in overcoming self-doubt and negative thoughts.
- **Enhances Motivation** – The memory of winning fuels the desire to work hard and overcome challenges. Knowing success is achievable makes training and practice more purposeful.
- **Resets the Mind** – Slumps can lead to a fixation on mistakes and failures. Reflecting on past victories redirects your mind from negativity to positivity and possibility.
- **Reinforces Productive Habits** – Reflecting on successful performances allows athletes to understand what goes into winning, enabling them to replicate those behaviors.
- **Reduces Pressure and Anxiety** – Slumps can create additional pressure, but recalling past successes allows athletes to trust their abilities and perform more freely.
- **Enhances Mental Toughness** – Positive memories are proof that obstacles can be conquered, bolstering an athlete’s resolve during slumps and difficult times.

Building a winning team culture requires commitment and action from every team member, including coaches.

The 2025 Washington Wizards beat the Minnesota Timberwolves to snap a midseason 16-game losing streak. The losing streak was tied for the team’s worst stretch in franchise history.

The Wizard’s 7-41 record is the worst in the NBA this season and threatens the team’s very culture.

After the win over Minnesota, Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma commented that the team desperately needed a taste of victory.

KUZMA: “Just remembering the feeling, that’s the biggest thing. Remembering how it felt to win. For us, we haven’t had a win in a long time. Hopefully, we see what it takes.”

Sometimes, losing can feel like a foregone conclusion in the middle of a slump. However, you can take action to regain the feeling of winning and reestablish a winning culture by reliving past successes, and visualizing winning.

You can also work on celebrating small successes, winning battles in practice, and working to earn that first victory to interrupt the losing streak.

Either you are adding or detracting from a positive team culture–no matter which, the choice is up to you.

The key to building a winning culture is to KNOW that winning is possible and then ACT accordingly.

Review past wins and identify the mental and physical factors that contributed to those successes. Then, integrate those attitudes, mental practices, and positive habits into your current routines.

You have been successful in the past. Know that you can succeed in the present!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/peak-performance-under-pressure/)**[How to Improve Athletic Confidence in Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-athletic-confidence-in-athletes/)**
- [Improving Resilience in Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improving-resilience-in-athletes/)
- [Managing High Expectations for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-high-expectations-for-athletes/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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**“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*
~Radek Sefcik, Peak Performance Sports Customer*

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness

---

### [Mental Keys to Eagles Super Bowl Win](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-keys-to-eagles-super-bowl-win/)

**Published:** February 14, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/super-bowl.jpg)

## Does Bulletin Board Material Improve Performance?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Does Bulletin Board Material Improve Performance?](#Does_Bulletin_Board_Material_Improve_Performance)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Relaxed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Many athletes use pre-game trash-talking or bulletin board material to their advantage.

Bulletin board material can fuel motivation. Some athletes thrive on proving doubters wrong. The challenge excites them to lift their game to another level.

For example, bulletin board material can provide several benefits for athletes:

- Increased Focus and Intensity – Hearing an opponent’s negative comments or bold prediction of victory can heighten concentration and competitive drive.
- Competitive Fire – Some players perform better when “psyched up” and use anger or feeling disrespected to elevate their intensity.
- Strengthening Team Unity – If a whole team is being doubted, it can create an “us vs. them” mentality that helps them rally around a specific goal and enhance their collective effort.

However, bulletin board material is not always a positive source of motivation. Several reasons can cause bulletin board material to backfire:

- Distractions – Bulletin board material can cause you to focus on what the opposing team is doing and mentally knock you off your game.

- Overwhelming Anxiety – When you are over-activated or too emotional, you may become more anxious, make more mistakes, make poor decisions, or play too aggressively.

- Team Dissention – When emotions run high and the opposing team jumps out to an early lead, players may start to blame or argue with each other.

Bulletin board material can light a fire under athletes, but it needs to be monitored, moderated, and channeled properly.

When you take control of how you react, you can prevent the bulletin board material from becoming a distraction and use it to fuel your motivation and performance.

The key is to keep the main thing the main thing. When you focus on your skills, strengths, preparation, and game plan, you build confidence in your ability to execute and perform your best under pressure.

Prior to Super Bowl LIX, the Kansas City Chiefs received most of the attention and were predicted to win over the Philadelphia Eagles for their third consecutive championship.

In the press, the general focus was on the Chiefs and their attempt for a Three-Peat. However, the Eagles ignored all the bulletin board material and stayed focused on themselves and their preparation ahead of the Super Bowl.

Philadelphia head coach Nick Sirianni commented on Philadelphia’s mindset before the game.

SIRIANNI: *“Same process, same everything. Everyone is going to tell you how much bigger this atmosphere is and how much bigger this is. But it’s really, don’t do anything different than what you’ve been doing.”*

Philadelphia cornerback Avonte Maddox talked about the team’s focus on themselves and not paying attention to the disrespect from the press.

MADDOX: *“You can’t really control what’s being said or done by the other team or what’s being said from the outside. What we can control is what we have in this building and with our team. That’s the most important thing. Like Jalen \[Hurts\] says, ‘Keep the main thing the main thing.’ We’re staying focused on us.”*

Bulletin board material can be a powerful motivator, driving you to elevate your performance through increased focus, motivation, and team unity.

However, it can also serve as a distraction, leading to over-activation, poor decision-making, and team conflict. The key is knowing what works best for you, regulating emotions, prioritizing your preparation, and keeping the focus on you.Understand that preparation matters most and should be the main focus. Outside noise should never overshadow your ultimate goal of performing your best when it matters most.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Reach Peak Performance In Athletics ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-peak-performance-in-athletics/)
- [Building Confidence for Athletes: Tips from Experts](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/building-confidence-for-athletes-tips-from-experts/)
- [Mental Toughness in Poor Weather Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-in-poor-weather-conditions/)

---

### [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital)

![Become a Fearless Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/relaxed-athlete-small-4.jpg)

“The Relaxed Athlete” audio and workbook program teaches you mental strategies to develop a focused and confident pregame routine for a poised and relaxed mindset. Learn how to get your mind right by overcoming pregame anxiety and worry.

*“After completing your program (**The Relaxed Athlete**)… he was more aware of the things that made him tight. He learned to control his breathing and control his emotions.”*

~Mark’s Father

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Myths and Truths About Performance Slumps for Athletes ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performance-slumps-for-athletes/)

**Published:** February 21, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/slump-in-performance.jpg)

## What is a Performance Slump? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is a Performance Slump?](#What_is_a_Performance_Slump)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

A performance slump is simply when you struggle to perform at your usual level for an extended period of time.

The biggest challenge related to slumps is an athlete’s misconceptions about slumps, such as:

- Slumps are solely a physical or technical issue.
- The only way to get out of a slump is to wait it out.
- Trying harder fixes a slump.
- Slumps are evidence of a lack of ability.
- Overhauling my technique is the answer.
- Talented athletes never go through slumps. Buying into these misconceptions often prolongs the length of a slump.

Let’s counter these misconceptions by highlighting the facts about slumps. There are six truths about slumps:

1. Every athlete, regardless of skill level, experiences a performance slump at some point in their career.
2. When you focus on the slump itself or personal statistics during a competition, you will experience increasing levels of self-doubt and pressure further detracting from your performance.
3. Slumps are temporary. No slump lasts forever, but your perspective about your slump impacts how long the slump will last.
4. Slumps are more than physical or technical issues. Mental factors significantly impact slumps.
5. You have the ability to work through your slump by learning and implementing mental strategies during practice, pre-game preparation, and competitions.
6. Overcoming your slump will help you become a better and mentally tougher athlete.

Understanding these truths will give you the necessary insight to help you overcome your slump. It is crucial for slumping athletes to grasp that mental barriers contribute most to slumps.

Several consecutive poor performances can shake self-belief, creating a negative cycle of doubt, anxiety, fear of failure, and overthinking.

These factors contribute to losing confidence and further embed the slump within your mind.

University of Michigan Rubin Jones struggled most of the 2024-25 NCAA basketball season. Jones had a subpar shooting percentage throughout the year: 33 percent from the field and 26 percent from the three-point line.

As the postseason nears, Jones will be a key piece if Michigan is to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.

Jones admitted he had been dwelling on his shooting numbers and knows the answer to overcoming his slump is to immerse himself in the flow of the game.

JONES: *“When you’re going through a slump especially, you get to overthinking stuff. You got a wide-open 3 and second guess. I’m like, ‘Man, I just missed. I just missed. I just missed.’ But when you’re just in the flow of the game, you kind of forget about all of that.”*

Jones turned to his coaches for advice on how to work through his slump, and their suggestions were simple: focus on doing rather than overthinking.

JONES: *“Get back to being myself. Don’t overthink about making 3s. Don’t think too much about the offense thing. Do what I enjoy doing: that’s playing defense, bringing energy to the team, leading the guys. Me focusing on that is going to pay off on the offensive end.”*

Instead of being preoccupied with scoring, Jones focused on immersing himself in the game, playing from his strengths, and contributing to his team in other ways.

By altering your perspective, changing your focus, and addressing your mental game, you can break the cycle and regain peak performance.

A performance slump is a natural part of an athlete’s journey. While it can be frustrating, it also presents an opportunity to develop your game in other ways and become a complete player.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Breaking Through Plateaus for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/breaking-through-plateaus-for-athletes/)
- [Team Mindset and the Next-Man-Up Mentality](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/team-mindset-and-the-next-man-up-mentality/)
- [How to Reach Peak Performance In Athletics ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-peak-performance-in-athletics/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [Three Ways to Stop Overthinking for Athletes ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/three-ways-to-stop-overthinking-for-athletes/)

**Published:** February 20, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, you will learn about the hazards of overthinking in your sport. We talk about challenging the “what if” statements can have a profound impact on your sports performance.

Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. We work with athletes in all sports – junior to professional – via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. Please contact us for more details.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

- [Mindset and How to Embrace Being a Role Player](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-how-to-embrace-being-a-role-player/)
- [How Pro Athletes Deal with Criticism in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-deal-with-criticism-in-sports/)
- [How to Turn Negative Criticism into Motivation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-negative-criticism-into-motivation/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

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### [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)

**Published:** August 7, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-setbacks.jpg)Dealing with Athletic Setbacks

## How Do You Stay Mentally Strong During Setbacks?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do You Stay Mentally Strong During Setbacks?](#How_Do_You_Stay_Mentally_Strong_During_Setbacks)
- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](#5_Ways_to_Deal_with_Athletic_Setbacks)
    - [1. You’re Not Alone](#1_Youre_Not_Alone)
    - [2. Shift Your Perspective](#2_Shift_Your_Perspective)
    - [3. Make a Plan—Then Execute](#3_Make_a_Plan%E2%80%94Then_Execute)
    - [4. Stay Involved](#4_Stay_Involved)
    - [5. Work with a Mental Skills Coach](#5_Work_with_a_Mental_Skills_Coach)
    - [Start With One Step](#Start_With_One_Step)
- [FAQ – Overcoming Athletic Setbacks](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Overcoming_Athletic_Setbacks)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athletes: A 14-Day Program for Unbeatable Trust](#The_Fearless_Athletes_A_14-Day_Program_for_Unbeatable_Trust)

Summary*Athletic setbacks—whether injury, slumps, or reduced playing time—can feel overwhelming. But with the right mindset and tools, these moments can build mental toughness and spark personal growth. This article shares 5 proven strategies athletes can use to bounce back stronger, inspired by Caitlin Clark’s resilient approach during a tough WNBA season.*

Setbacks are an inevitable part of every athlete’s journey. Whether it’s injury, a performance slump, reduced playing time, or personal struggles, these moments challenge more than just physical ability—they test an athlete’s mindset, resolve, and mental toughness.

While it’s tempting to see setbacks as obstacles, they often turn into moments that ignite growth, increase motivation, and influence how you respond to future adversity.

It’s easy to give in when you face tough times. However, if you respond with mental toughness, you will find it easier to overcome future setbacks.

Take, for example, Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. Caitlin. Clark has experienced an injury-riddled 2025 WNBA season. The last time Clark missed a game due to an injury was in high school. So far this season, Clark missed three weeks with a left quad strain, two weeks with a left groin issue, and almost a month with a right groin strain. Clark, who has been limited to 13 games this season, also has been mired in a shooting slump.

Sitting on the sidelines, rehabbing several injuries, and struggling with her shooting have been challenging setbacks for Clark. Clark has been undeterred by her circumstances.

Clark speaks to the team’s sports psychologist multiple times a week about adversity, basketball,and life, helping her manage the realities of being a professional athlete. Clark commented about how her challenging season has changed her perspective as a professional athlete.

CLARK: *“This is the first time I haven’t felt like a young body that can run around and sprint every day and just continue to do that. Being a professional athlete, you really have to take care of both your body and your mind — it’s been a journey learning about that.”*

With the right perspective, setbacks can lead to personal and athletic growth, shaping the next phase of your athletic career. Navigating through setbacks and adversity also helps develop mental toughness.

It’s important to understand that mental toughness isn’t forged in the smooth moments during your athletic career; it’s shaped by how you respond to losses, injury, disappointment, andchallenges.

## **5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks**

Setbacks are part of the athletic journey. No matter your sport or level, tough moments are guaranteed. It’s how you respond that makes the difference.

Here are five strategies to help you start **dealing with athletic setbacks** today.

### **1. You’re Not Alone**

You might feel like you’re the only one struggling. You’re not. Every athlete—pro or amateur—has faced setbacks.

Injuries, poor performances, being benched, or even mental blocks are all common. You’re not weak for struggling. You’re human.

Many athletes have been in your shoes and come out stronger. Use their stories as fuel. You are part of a much bigger journey.

### **2. Shift Your Perspective**

Setbacks can feel like the end. But they’re not. How you view the situation matters. If you see it as failure, you may stay stuck. But if you view it as a challenge or opportunity, you’ll open doors.

This doesn’t mean pretending you’re okay. It means choosing to respond with growth. Ask yourself, *What can I learn? What can I change?*

Mindset shifts everything.

### **3. Make a Plan—Then Execute**

You wouldn’t train for a season without a game plan. So don’t face setbacks without one either.Take time to reflect. What’s going wrong? What are the areas you can improve or control?

Then write down clear, simple actions. Maybe it’s extra rehab, daily visualization, journaling, or a nutrition reset.Action creates momentum. You’ll feel more in control and less overwhelmed.

### **4. Stay Involved**

When you’re struggling, it’s tempting to withdraw. To go quiet. To hide from your teammates or coaches. Don’t. Stay connected.

Stay at practices. Watch film. Be part of the team. Talk to others. Share what you’re going through.

Whether you’re injured, in a slump, or feeling lost—engagement keeps you in the game mentally. And that’s crucial for your comeback.

### **5. Work with a Mental Skills Coach**

Sometimes, you can’t do it alone. And that’s okay. A Mental Game Coach can help you gain clarity. They can teach you how to reframe failure, set goals, manage pressure, and build confidence.

They’ll help you shift from stuck to strong.

Don’t wait until you’re “rock bottom.” Seek support early and take your game to the next level mentally and emotionally.

### **Start With One Step**

**Dealing with athletic setbacks** isn’t easy. But it’s also not the end of your story. It’s a chapter—a hard one—that can lead to growth.

You are capable of more than you think. Start with one step. Feel what you need to feel. Make a plan. Stay involved. Get support. This is your comeback season. And you’re not in it alone.

## **FAQ – Overcoming Athletic Setbacks**

**Q1: What’s the first thing I should do after a setback?**
**A:** Recognize that you’re not alone. Every athlete faces adversity. Remind yourself that setbacks are a normal part of the journey and can be opportunities for growth.

**Q2: How can I stay mentally strong during injury recovery?**
**A:** Stay connected to your sport, lean on your support system, talk to professionals (like mental skills coaches), and keep a structured recovery plan to stay focused and optimistic.

**Q3: Why is perspective important when facing a setback?**
**A:** How you view your setback determines how you respond. Viewing adversity as a challenge to grow rather than a failure helps shift your mindset toward solutions and action.

**Q4: What role does a Mental Game Coach play in recovery?**
**A:** A Mental Game Coach teaches you how to manage stress, reframe challenges, and build mental skills that help you rebound stronger and more confident.

**Q5: Can setbacks actually make me a better athlete?**
**A:** Absolutely. Setbacks test your mental toughness and help you develop resilience, patience, and new strategies—all of which contribute to long-term success.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [4 Mindsets to Feel Comfortable at a New Arena](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mindsets-feel-comfortable-at-a-new-arena/)
- [5 Ways Athletes Can Deal with Critics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-athletes-can-deal-with-critics/)
- [4 Ways to Bounce Back from Losing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-way-to-bounce-back-from-losing/)

---

### [The Fearless Athletes: A 14-Day Program for Unbeatable Trust](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

**The Fearless Athlete program** is ideal for any athlete that wants to overcome fear of failure and uncover inhibiting perfectionistic traits; or for any coach or parent who wants to teach athletes to perform with trust and freedom in competition.

“**The Fearless Athlete**” program is presented on two 75-minute CD’s with a 78-page step-by-step workbook. I combine a practical and real-life workbook with a step-by-step CD program that takes you through each day of the 14 day program – **like having your own personal mental coach**. It’s a complete system for reprogramming your mindset for unbeatable trust in competition

You can use these CDs at home with the practical workbook or download them onto your iPod so you can listen to them in your car or van repeatedly until the strategies are stored in your sub-conscious mind.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

 [ ![social network 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](https://www.facebook.com/PeakPerformanceSports) [ ![social network 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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Mindset Tips for Navigating Social Media](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-navigating-social-media/)

**Published:** August 10, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, you will learn strategies to manage social media as an athlete in today’s society. We discuss how to keep your focus solely on competing.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master **mental performance coach** who works with professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​ Improve your mindset for sports with our certified mental performance coaches. Learn more at peaksports.com.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

- [5 Ways Athletes Can Deal with Critics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-athletes-can-deal-with-critics/)
- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)
- [4 Mindsets to Feel Comfortable at a New Arena](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mindsets-feel-comfortable-at-a-new-arena/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [4 Strategies to Deal with Doubters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-deal-with-doubters/)

**Published:** August 28, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/deal-with-doubters.jpg)

## How do I Stay Confident When Others Doubt Me?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do I Stay Confident When Others Doubt Me?](#How_do_I_Stay_Confident_When_Others_Doubt_Me)
- [Three Basic Truths About Outside Doubt](#Three_Basic_Truths_About_Outside_Doubt)
- [4 Effective Strategies to Deal with Doubters in Sports](#4_Effective_Strategies_to_Deal_with_Doubters_in_Sports)
    - [1. Turn Doubt into Fuel](#1_Turn_Doubt_into_Fuel)
    - [2. Focus on What You Control](#2_Focus_on_What_You_Control)
    - [3. Surround Yourself with Support](#3_Surround_Yourself_with_Support)
    - [4. Look at the Evidence](#4_Look_at_the_Evidence)
    - [FAQ – Dealing with Doubters in Sports](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Dealing_with_Doubters_in_Sports)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athletes: A 14-Day Program for Unbeatable Trust](#The_Fearless_Athletes_A_14-Day_Program_for_Unbeatable_Trust)

*Summary: You stay confident when others doubt you by rejecting their doubts and focusing on what you can control. Treat outside criticism as opinion, not fact, and use it as fuel to train harder and stay motivated. Surround yourself with supporters, keep proof of your past successes, and trust your preparation.*

**Dealing with Doubters in Sports**

Have you ever been bothered by others doubting your abilities? Have those outside doubts ever hurt your performance? Every athlete, no matter how talented or accomplished, will face doubters. How you deal with the doubts expressed by others can have a significant impact on your performance.

For example, you can listen to the doubters and take on those doubts as your own. When you accept doubts, they take hold in your mind, and you lose confidence, which could eventually lead to a slump.

The alternative response is to reject doubts from others as mere opinions. When you view doubts as opinions, you can use them as fuel to grow stronger, more resilient, and more confident in your performance.

This is the core of **dealing with doubters in sports** — choosing how you respond.

## **Three Basic Truths About Outside Doubt**

1. **People will doubt you.** It happens to everyone, whether you are a novice or an elite athlete.

2. **You cannot change the opinions of others.** No matter how well you perform, you have no control over what people think or say about you.

3. **You don’t need to buy into the doubts.** Your response to the doubts is 100 percent within your control. You can either accept or reject the opinions of others.

**Hailey Van Lith’s Example**

WNBA rookie Hailey Van Lith is fully committed to being the best player she can be and leaving her mark on the WNBA. During her college career, Van Lith started in more games and played more minutes than any other NCAA women’s basketball player. She’s also the only player in NCAA history to reach the Elite Eight of March Madness with three different teams.

Still, there are those who doubt Van Lith’s ability to make an impact at the professional level.

VAN LITH:
*“As an athlete, we’re in a world where we’re constantly evaluated. I think there have been many times throughout my career when people didn’t think I would be successful at the next level… There’s not one person that is trying to do something great that hasn’t been told they can’t do it.”*

Her response highlights the mindset of **dealing with doubters in sports**: not internalizing outside criticism, but instead turning it into motivation.

## **4 Effective Strategies to Deal with Doubters in Sports**

### 1. Turn Doubt into Fuel

Instead of letting negative comments sink into your mind, flip the script and use them as motivation. Every time someone doubts you, see it as an opportunity to push harder in training, sharpen your focus, and prove yourself in competition. Keep a journal of moments when you’ve already proved people wrong — reviewing it can remind you of your resilience when doubt resurfaces.

### 2. Focus on What You Control

You can’t stop people from making judgments, but you can control your own effort, preparation, and mindset. Shift your energy away from critics and direct it toward daily habits: sticking to your training plan, preparing with intent, and showing up mentally ready to compete. Creating a pre-game routine can also keep your focus centered on what matters most — your performance.

### 3. Surround Yourself with Support

When outside negativity feels heavy, lean on the people who believe in you. Teammates, coaches, family, and friends can provide encouragement and perspective when you start second-guessing yourself. Build a “support team” you can count on for reminders of your strengths, especially before big competitions.

### 4. Look at the Evidence

Instead of blindly accepting criticism, fact-check the doubters. Review your stats, past performances, or training improvements to remind yourself of what you’ve achieved. This evidence-based approach silences empty opinions and reinforces your confidence. Athletes like Hailey Van Lith credit this mindset — focusing on proof of progress instead of critics’ words — as the foundation of their confidence.

### **FAQ – Dealing with Doubters in Sports**

**Q1: Why do people doubt athletes?**

A: Doubt is a common part of sports. Some people project their own insecurities, while others simply underestimate what you’re capable of. Every athlete—from beginners to professionals—will face doubters.

**Q2: How can doubters affect performance?**

A: If you internalize doubt, it can chip away at your confidence, distract your focus, and even cause slumps. However, when you view doubt as just an opinion, you can use it as motivation to grow stronger and more resilient.

**Q3: What’s the best way to respond to doubters?**

A: Focus on what you can control: your effort, preparation, and mindset. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, and treat outside negativity as fuel to sharpen your performance.

**Q4: Can doubt ever be a good thing?**

A: Yes. When used correctly, doubt can push you to train harder, stay focused, and prove yourself on your own terms. Many elite athletes—including WNBA rookie Hailey Van Lith—have used outside doubt to strengthen their mental game.

**Q5: What’s the most important mindset for handling doubt?**

A: Remember that the only opinion that truly matters is the one you hold about yourself. Confidence comes from trusting your preparation and believing in your ability to show up and perform.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mindsets-feel-comfortable-at-a-new-arena/)[4 Ways to Overcome Self-Doubt for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-to-overcome-self-doubt-for-athletes/)
- [4 Ways Athletes Can Build a Competitive Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-athletes-can-build-a-competitive-mindset/)

---

### [The Fearless Athletes: A 14-Day Program for Unbeatable Trust](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

**The Fearless Athlete program** is ideal for any athlete that wants to overcome fear of failure and uncover inhibiting perfectionistic traits; or for any coach or parent who wants to teach athletes to perform with trust and freedom in competition.

“**The Fearless Athlete**” program is presented on two 75-minute CD’s with a 78-page step-by-step workbook. I combine a practical and real-life workbook with a step-by-step CD program that takes you through each day of the 14 day program – **like having your own personal mental coach**. It’s a complete system for reprogramming your mindset for unbeatable trust in competition

You can use these CDs at home with the practical workbook or download them onto your iPod so you can listen to them in your car or van repeatedly until the strategies are stored in your sub-conscious mind.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [4 Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubt](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-overcome-self-doubt/)

**Published:** September 25, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/self-doubt-1.jpg)

## How Do Athletes Overcome Self-Doubt?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do Athletes Overcome Self-Doubt?](#How_Do_Athletes_Overcome_Self-Doubt)
    - [4 Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubts and Achieve New Standards](#4_Strategies_to_Overcome_Self-Doubts_and_Achieve_New_Standards)
    - [1. Build a Case for Yourself](#1_Build_a_Case_for_Yourself)
    - [2. Take It One Day at a Time](#2_Take_It_One_Day_at_a_Time)
    - [3. Adopt a Growth Mindset](#3_Adopt_a_Growth_Mindset)
    - [4. Surround Yourself with Belief Builders](#4_Surround_Yourself_with_Belief_Builders)
    - [FAQ: Overcoming Self-Doubt](#FAQ_Overcoming_Self-Doubt)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete CD and Workbook Program](#The_Confident_Athlete_CD_and_Workbook_Program)

Articles Summary*Self-doubt appears when you chase goals you’ve never reached. Many athletes let doubt limit their belief and effort, while confident athletes look for evidence that progress is possible. Improvement in training, past success, or stronger focus all prove potential for growth. Like Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, elite athletes face doubt but choose belief and preparation. To overcome self-doubt, build a case for your progress, stay consistent, adopt a growth mindset, and surround yourself with people who reinforce confidence.*

If you have never achieved a particular standard, ranking, or time in the past, what makes you think you can in the near future? This question is at the very heart of accomplishment and achieving new heights in sports.

Let’s look at a golf and swimming example:

Sabrina A. is a D-I golfer who hits her tee shots 200 yards. Sabrina wants to add 15 yards off the tee. What evidence is there to make her think or support the notion that she can drive the ball 215 yards when she has never accomplished that feat in the past?

Todd D., 17, wants to qualify for senior nationals in the 200 freestyle. He achieved his junior national cut last season but is 3 seconds away from a senior national cut. What evidence exists to make him think that a 3-second drop is not only possible, but probable?

A self-doubter may think, I’ve never accomplished this feat before, I probably won’t achieve it now.” Many self-doubters use the phrase “I’m just being realistic” to justify their beliefs.

With a self-doubt mindset, how likely do you think it is that an athlete will put in the necessary work and really go for their goal? Conversely, athletes with a go-for-it mindset take a different approach and find relatable evidence to support their belief that they can achieve a new standard.

What evidence can you use to support that you can achieve a future standard?

There is plenty of evidence, such as the achievement of past goals, refining technique, implementing new training regimens, incorporating mental skill work, overcoming past adversity, increasing functional strength, improving flexibility, better strategic planning, or practicing against tough competitors.

When you look for evidence to support your ability to accomplish new standards, you will be more willing to take risks, try new methods, and put in the necessary work.

Let’s look at the example of U.S. track and field athlete Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. McLaughlin-Levrone holds the world record in the 400-meter hurdles and is only .19 seconds away from the world record in the 400-meter sprint.

At the 2025 World Athletics Championships, McLaughlin-Levrone was asked if she would ever consider competing in the demanding double 400-meter Hurdles and the 400-meter sprint, if the schedule allowed, and if she thought it would be possible to win both.

MCLAUGHLIN-LEVRONE: *“Yeah, there’s been a lot of talk of doubles. ‘Is it possible’ is one thing, and do I want to do it is another. I think anything is possible, it’s just a matter of what are my goals, what am I setting up to do? I want to put myself in the best position possible to be the best I can be. Those are two really hard events with really great fields. You cannot discredit any of those women. That’s a big undertaking.”*

Doubt is quite common when you’re aiming at a standard you’ve never reached before. Even world record holders have their moments of doubt. What separates highly successful athletes from the rest is how they handle those doubts.

If you accept doubt as fact, you build a practically insurmountable obstacle that holds you back from your potential.

Setting new standards requires processing doubt and finding the evidence to support achieving new heights. Always remember that your potential has less to do with past athletic standards and more to do with your ability to adapt, refine your methods, and keep showing up.

### **4 Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubts and Achieve New Standards**

### 1. Build a Case for Yourself

Confidence grows when you have real evidence of your ability. Keep track of every measurable improvement—stronger lifts, faster times, refined mechanics, or smarter decision-making. These data points prove that progress is possible. When doubt creeps in, review your record to remind yourself how far you’ve come. Reflecting on your growth reinforces belief that more progress is within reach. Every gain, no matter how small, becomes proof that your work produces results.

### 2. Take It One Day at a Time

Big goals can feel overwhelming when you focus too much on the finish line. The key is to break goals into daily, manageable steps. Each training session is a deposit toward your future performance. Consistency, not perfection, builds results. When frustration hits, focus on what you can do today—show up, give effort, and complete your plan. Small, steady progress creates momentum and confidence. Success comes from commitment to the process, not from expecting immediate breakthroughs.

### 3. Adopt a Growth Mindset

Athletes with a fixed mindset see limits; those with a growth mindset see opportunities. Replace “I can’t” or “I’ve never done this” with “I haven’t done it yet.” This small language shift keeps your focus on improvement instead of fear. View mistakes and setbacks as information, not failure. Each challenge reveals what needs adjustment. Growth-minded athletes learn, adapt, and improve because they believe effort leads to progress. The more you practice this mindset, the faster doubt loses power.

### 4. Surround Yourself with Belief Builders

Your environment influences your confidence. Spend time with people who encourage growth, not those who feed negativity. Coaches, teammates, and parents who reinforce belief help you stay focused during tough times. Seek feedback from those who challenge you to improve and remind you of your capabilities. Positive support builds accountability and motivation. Protect your mindset by keeping your inner circle filled with people who see your potential and push you toward it.

### **FAQ: Overcoming Self-Doubt**

**1. Why do athletes experience self-doubt?**

Self-doubt often appears when you aim for a goal you’ve never reached before. It’s a natural response to uncertainty and pressure but becomes harmful when it limits belief and effort.

**2. How can I build confidence when I’ve never achieved a goal before?**

Look for evidence of growth—better technique, consistent training, and overcoming challenges. Progress from the past proves that improvement is possible in the future.

**3. What is the biggest danger of self-doubt?**

When you accept doubt as fact, you lower your effort and avoid taking risks. Doubt becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy that blocks progress.

**4. How does a growth mindset help?**

A growth mindset shifts your focus from what you haven’t done to what you can still achieve. Replace “I can’t” with “I haven’t yet.” This keeps motivation high and effort consistent.

**5. Why is daily effort important to overcome doubt?**

Confidence grows from consistency. Small wins over time create evidence that you can handle pressure, improve, and reach higher standards.

**6. What role do others play in overcoming self-doubt?**

Surround yourself with people who believe in your ability to grow. Supportive coaches, teammates, and parents help reinforce belief when you question yourself.

**7. Can top athletes also struggle with self-doubt?**

Yes. Even elite performers like Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone experience moments of doubt. What sets them apart is their ability to manage those thoughts and stay focused on preparation and goals.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [4 Strategies to Deal with Doubters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-deal-with-doubters/)
- [4 Mindsets to Feel Comfortable at a New Arena](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mindsets-feel-comfortable-at-a-new-arena/)
- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete CD and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)

“*The Confident Athlete*” audio and workbook program helps you feel confident before you walk onto the field, track or court. You discover how to have stable and proactive confidence so you can think like a champion.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness

---

### [3 Ways to Build a Positive Team Identity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-build-a-positive-team-identity/)

**Published:** October 1, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/team-identity.jpg)

## How Can a Strong Team Identity Help with Adversity?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can a Strong Team Identity Help with Adversity?](#How_Can_a_Strong_Team_Identity_Help_with_Adversity)
    - [3 Ways to Build a Positive, Powerful Team Identity](#3_Ways_to_Build_a_Positive_Powerful_Team_Identity)
        - [Why Team Identity Matters](#Why_Team_Identity_Matters)
        - [A Case Study: The Indiana Fever’s “We Over Me” Identity](#A_Case_Study_The_Indiana_Fevers_%E2%80%9CWe_Over_Me%E2%80%9D_Identity)
        - [1. Define It: Clarify What You Stand For](#1_Define_It_Clarify_What_You_Stand_For)
        - [2. Live It: Model It Through Behavior](#2_Live_It_Model_It_Through_Behavior)
        - [3. Reinforce It Daily: Keep the Message Alive](#3_Reinforce_It_Daily_Keep_the_Message_Alive)
    - [FAQ: Building a Positive Team Identity](#FAQ_Building_a_Positive_Team_Identity)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [Virtual Sports Psychology for Athletes](#Virtual_Sports_Psychology_for_Athletes)

*Summary: Discover how athletes and coaches can build a positive, powerful team identity that drives unity, resilience, and consistent performance. Using the example of the Indiana Fever’s “We Over Me” mentality, this article explores how shared values and collective purpose help teams overcome adversity and achieve success. Learn three practical strategies—defining, living, and reinforcing your team identity—to create lasting cohesion and unlock your team’s full potential.*

### 3 Ways to Build a Positive, Powerful Team Identity

#### **Why Team Identity Matters**

How would you describe your team’s identity? If you’re struggling to answer that question, your team may lack the shared vision and purpose needed to perform consistently. Without a clear identity, athletes often drift toward focusing on individual results—batting average, minutes played, or stats—rather than what truly wins games: collective effort and trust.

A strong team identity doesn’t just make a team look unified; it creates alignment between what the team values and how it performs. Teams that know who they are can handle pressure with poise, rebound faster after setbacks, and maintain belief in one another when things get hard. Learning how to **build a positive team identity** ensures players remain connected, even during the toughest moments—injuries, slumps, or big losses.

#### A Case Study: The Indiana Fever’s “We Over Me” Identity

The Indiana Fever of the WNBA demonstrated what a strong identity looks like in action. Despite losing five key players to season-ending injuries during the 2025 season, they never lost sight of who they were. Their motto—“We Over Me”—defined how they practiced, competed, and supported one another. That mindset carried them through multiple elimination games in the playoffs, all the way to a semifinal Game 5 that few expected them to reach.

Center Aliyah Boston captured the team’s mindset perfectly when she said, “We over me. That has been our identity the entire season. We all we got, we all we need. Whether you’re hurt or not, everything you do is for the betterment of this team.” The Fever’s success wasn’t built on luck—it was built on a shared commitment to their values. Learning to **build a positive team identity** gives teams something to lean on and fight for together when adversity strikes.

#### 1. Define It: Clarify What You Stand For

Every team needs a foundation—a clear understanding of who they are and what they value most. Without it, your team will lack direction when pressure hits. Defining your identity starts with honest team conversations. Ask: *Who are we when we’re at our best? What values guide how we compete, communicate, and prepare? What do we want to be known for?*

From these discussions, identify three or four core values that define your team’s DNA. For example, “Effort Over Excuses,” “Together in Tough Moments,” or “Play for Each Other.” Once those values are clear, write them down and display them where everyone can see them—locker room walls, practice plans, or team gear. The more visible and integrated your identity becomes, the more it shapes daily habits.

Great teams connect their identity to controllable actions. Instead of vague ideas like “We play hard,” they define behaviors that are measurable: “We sprint to every ball,” “We communicate every play,” or “We stay composed after mistakes.” This clarity helps players understand how to **build a positive team identity** in practice and in competition.

#### **2. Live It: Model It Through Behavior**

A team identity isn’t something you talk about once and forget—it’s something you live every day. Coaches and captains set the tone, but every player contributes to upholding it. Living your identity means making sure your actions reflect your values, even when things aren’t going well.

This requires consistency under pressure.

When a team is losing or facing tough moments, staying true to your values shows strength. It also requires accountability. If someone’s behavior slips—negative body language, lack of effort, selfish play—teammates must be willing to hold each other accountable, not to criticize, but to protect the culture they’ve worked to build.

True leadership happens by example. The best teams don’t need to constantly remind one another of their identity—they demonstrate it. When a veteran runs out a ground ball, a bench player stays engaged, or a starter encourages a struggling teammate, the identity becomes visible. These small actions compound into a culture that helps every member understand how to **build a positive team identity** naturally.

#### 3. Reinforce It Daily: Keep the Message Alive

Even the strongest identity fades if it’s not reinforced. Coaches and team leaders should find consistent ways to remind players what the team stands for. This can be done through practice habits, pregame talks, film sessions, or team rituals that reflect your values. For instance, if “selflessness” is a team pillar, make it a tradition to shout out the most unselfish play from each practice.

Reinforcing identity isn’t about repetition—it’s about relevance. Tie your values to what’s happening right now in the season. After a tough loss, revisit how the team responded and connect it to the identity. After a big win, celebrate the behaviors that reflected your culture. The more consistently your message connects to real experiences, the stronger it becomes. Over time, this daily reinforcement turns your identity from words into reflexes.

**Summary**

A well-defined, positive team identity transforms adversity into opportunity. It keeps players connected, motivated, and resilient no matter what the season brings. When your team defines it clearly, lives it fully, and reinforces it daily, you create not just a roster of athletes—but a unified, unstoppable force driven by shared purpose. Learning how to **build a positive team identity** is one of the most important investments your team can make.

### **FAQ: Building a Positive Team Identity**

**Q1: What is a team identity, and why does it matter?**

A team identity is a set of shared values, goals, and behaviors that define how a team operates on and off the field. It matters because it aligns players, fosters trust, and keeps the team resilient during challenges.

**Q2: How can coaches help their team establish an identity?**

Coaches can guide discussions to define core values, set behavioral standards, and model the desired culture consistently. Regular reinforcement through practice, meetings, and rituals helps make the identity a living part of the team.

**Q3: Can a team identity change during the season?**

Yes. Teams can refine or evolve their identity if needed, especially in response to adversity. The key is maintaining alignment with shared values while adapting to new challenges.

**Q4: How do players contribute to a team identity?**

Every player contributes by living the values daily, holding teammates accountable, and demonstrating behaviors that reflect the identity. When all members actively engage, the culture becomes stronger and more automatic.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [4 Ways to Bounce Back from Losing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-way-to-bounce-back-from-losing/)
- [4 Ways Athletes Can Build a Competitive Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-athletes-can-build-a-competitive-mindset/)
- [6 Steps to Mentally Recover from a Tough Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-recover-from-a-tough-loss/)

---

### [Virtual Sports Psychology for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

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 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [3 Ways to Turn Adversity into Advantage](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-turn-adversity-into-advantage/)

**Published:** September 4, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/adversity-into-advantage.jpg)

## How Can Athletes Use Setbacks as Fuel for Growth

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can Athletes Use Setbacks as Fuel for Growth](#How_Can_Athletes_Use_Setbacks_as_Fuel_for_Growth)
    - [3 Ways to Turn Adversity into Advantage During a Sports Season](#3_Ways_to_Turn_Adversity_into_Advantage_During_a_Sports_Season)
        - [1. Remind Yourself that Adversity Prepares You](#1_Remind_Yourself_that_Adversity_Prepares_You)
        - [2. Look Forward, Not Backwards](#2_Look_Forward_Not_Backwards)
        - [3. Become a Believer in Mental Toughness](#3_Become_a_Believer_in_Mental_Toughness)
    - [FAQ – Adversity in Sports](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Adversity_in_Sports)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [THE FEARLESS ATHLETE (DIGITAL DOWNLOAD)](#THE_FEARLESS_ATHLETE_DIGITAL_DOWNLOAD)

*Summary: Adversity is an unavoidable part of every sports season, but it doesn’t have to derail
performance. Injuries, slumps, and tough losses can actually be powerful opportunities for
growth when approached with the right mindset. The best athletes and teams learn how to turn
adversity into advantage in sports by using challenges as fuel for preparation, focusing forward
instead of dwelling on setbacks, and developing unshakable mental toughness. By reframing
setbacks as stepping stones, athletes build resilience, strengthen confidence, and create the
foundation for long-term success on and off the field.*

Is it possible to **turn adversity into advantage in sports**?

Every athlete and team will face challenges during a season. Injuries, tough losses, performance slumps, or off-field issues can shake your confidence and test resilience. But adversity doesn’t have to derail your season—it can be the spark that helps you grow stronger, more focused, and more prepared for the future.

For example, an injury might motivate you to strengthen your body and take steps to prevent future setbacks. A slump could serve as an opportunity to reevaluate your training and practice routines, helping you identify areas for growth. Even a losing streak may have hidden benefits, such as uniting your team and increasing everyone’s commitment to shared goals.

The best athletes and teams don’t avoid adversity; they learn to use it as fuel for improvement.

The 2025 Las Vegas Aces serve as a perfect example. After starting the WNBA season 11–11, they faced heavy criticism and doubt. Instead of letting frustration take over, the Aces doubled down on fundamentals, rebuilt their defense, and strengthened team chemistry. Their response to adversity sparked a remarkable turnaround—they won 14 of their next 15 games heading into the playoffs.

MVP center A’ja Wilson explained:

**WILSON***: “In the beginning of the season, getting torched—you touch that stove and you know it’s hot. I think we’ve learned our lesson… We know how to weather storms.”*

By reframing adversity as a lesson, the Aces built the resilience needed for playoff-level intensity.

Wilson added: *“Once you get torched a couple times… that’s what postseason is all about. We’ve learned our lesson from the beginning of the season, and we don’t wanna go back there.”*

The Aces’ story highlights an important truth: when athletes respond to adversity with toughness and belief, no challenge feels too big to overcome. Here are three strategies to help you **turn adversity into advantage in sports**.

### **3 Ways to Turn Adversity into Advantage During a Sports Season**

#### 1. Remind Yourself that Adversity Prepares You

Every setback you face in a season is an opportunity to get stronger. An injury teaches patience and discipline. A tough loss reveals areas to improve. A slump forces you to refine your preparation.

When you view adversity as preparation, you stop seeing it as an obstacle and start seeing it as a stepping stone toward future success. Champions understand that difficult moments are shaping them for the moments that matter most.

#### 2. Look Forward, Not Backwards

Dwelling on mistakes or disappointments traps you in negativity. The best athletes use setbacks as a reset button—they reflect briefly, learn the lesson, and then move forward with clarity.

Focusing forward builds resilience, sharpens motivation, and frees you from carrying unnecessary baggage. By keeping your eyes on what’s next, you’re better equipped to bounce back and rise stronger than before. This shift in focus is essential to turn adversity into advantage in sports performance.

#### 3. Become a Believer in Mental Toughness

Adversity is the ultimate test of mindset. Physical talent gets you far, but when seasons get tough, it’s mental toughness that separates the good from the great.

Mental toughness is the ability to stay composed, focused, and confident even when conditions aren’t ideal. It means maintaining belief in yourself and your team when things don’t go according to plan.

By committing to developing mental toughness—through routines, positive self-talk, visualization, and resilience training—you’ll consistently find ways to turn adversity into advantage in sports and thrive under pressure.

### FAQ – Adversity in Sports

**Q1: How can athletes stay motivated during a tough season?**

A: By focusing on controllable factors—effort, preparation, and mindset—athletes can stay motivated. Remind yourself that setbacks are temporary and that adversity builds strength for future opportunities.

**Q2: What is the best way to bounce back after a loss?**

A: Reflect briefly on the loss, identify one or two lessons, and then shift focus to the next challenge. Dwelling too long creates negativity, while forward focus helps you turn adversity into advantage in sports.

**Q3: How does mental toughness impact performance?**

A: Mental toughness allows athletes to remain composed under stress, adapt quickly to change, and stay confident even during adversity. It’s the skill that keeps you competitive when talent alone isn’t enough.

**Q4: Can adversity really help athletes improve?**

A: Yes—adversity forces growth. Injuries may lead to better conditioning, slumps may push you toward smarter training, and losses often reveal areas of improvement. When used correctly, adversity accelerates progress.

**Q5: How can a team use adversity to get stronger?**

A: Teams that face challenges together often build stronger chemistry and accountability. By uniting around a shared goal, teams can transform setbacks into fuel for improved performance and cohesion. This approach helps them consistently turn adversity into advantage in sports.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)
- [4 Ways to Overcome Self-Doubt for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-to-overcome-self-doubt-for-athletes/)
- [4 Strategies to Deal with Doubters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-deal-with-doubters/)

---

### [THE FEARLESS ATHLETE (DIGITAL DOWNLOAD)](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Adversity, Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [3 Strategies to Break Out of a Performance Slump for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-strategies-to-break-out-of-a-performance-slump-for-athletes/)

**Published:** November 20, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/performance-slump-1.jpg)\#image\_title

## How Can You Break Out of a Performance Slump?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can You Break Out of a Performance Slump?](#How_Can_You_Break_Out_of_a_Performance_Slump)
    - [Payton Pritchard’s Example: Patience Through the Slump](#Payton_Pritchards_Example_Patience_Through_the_Slump)
    - [A Slump Isn’t a Dead End—It’s a Turning Point](#A_Slump_Isnt_a_Dead_End%E2%80%94Its_a_Turning_Point)
    - [3 Strategies to Break Out of a Personal Performance Slump](#3_Strategies_to_Break_Out_of_a_Personal_Performance_Slump)
        - [1. Keep Taking Your Shot](#1_Keep_Taking_Your_Shot)
        - [2. Give Endless Effort](#2_Give_Endless_Effort)
        - [3. Ignore the Numbers](#3_Ignore_the_Numbers)
    - [FAQ – Breaking Out of a Performance Slump](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Breaking_Out_of_a_Performance_Slump)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Sports Kid (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Sports_Kid_Digital_Download)

SummaryEvery athlete hits rough patches where performance dips, confidence wavers, and
pressure increases. By learning how to break out of a personal performance slump,
you can regain your rhythm, restore your confidence, and return to competing at your
best.

Can you think of a single athlete in any sport who has never experienced a slump?

Every athlete—elite or beginner—goes through periods when their performance dips and nothing seems to go right. When this happens, athletes often slip into a **slump mindset**, believing that no amount of practice, extra reps, or technical adjustments will help. They feel they’re doing everything right, but the results simply don’t show.

As confidence drops, doubt grows, pressure increases, and timing gets thrown off. This emotional spiral reinforces the belief that they are “stuck,” making it even harder to **break out of a personal performance slump**.

But a slump is not proof that you’ve lost your skill or hit your ceiling. It’s simply feedback that something in your process needs attention, adjustment, or reset.

When you view slumps as temporary—not personal failures—you reduce the emotional weight they carry. Instead of panicking, you stay patient, determined, and confident that improvement is coming.

Ultimately, it’s mindset—not talent—that determines how long a slump lasts. With the right shift in perspective, performance begins to trend upward again.

### **Payton Pritchard’s Example: Patience Through the Slump**

Early in the 2025–26 NBA season, Boston Celtics guard **Payton Pritchard** hit a mini slump, shooting just 4-for-17 from the field over three games. His three-point shot wasn’t falling either—just 2-for-11 during that span.

But in the next game, Pritchard erupted for 24 points, shooting 50% from three and stuffing the stat sheet with rebounds and assists. It was a reminder that slumps don’t define players—and they never last forever.

Pritchard stayed confident because he’d been through slumps before:

**PRITCHARD:**
*“When I go through them is usually when I break through and get a little bit better… I went through a five-game stretch where I didn’t score, and people questioned whether I should even be playing.”*

Through experience, Pritchard learned to stay patient, keep shooting, and trust that something positive would come from the struggle:

**PRITCHARD:**
*“There’s gonna be low points… don’t let it break you. Learn from it and get better from it.”*

Head coach **Joe Mazzulla** emphasized that slumps don’t stop players from contributing:

**MAZZULLA:**
*“He’ll make shots, but even when he doesn’t, it’s about consistently doing the other things that give us a chance every night.”*

This is exactly why learning to **break out of a personal performance slump** is so important: it teaches athletes to expand their game, build resilience, and emerge stronger than before.

### **A Slump Isn’t a Dead End—It’s a Turning Point**

A slump is not a verdict on your future—it’s an opportunity. The athletes who grow from their slumps become more complete competitors. They learn patience, emotional control, and adaptability. They become tougher mentally, not just technically.

When handled correctly, a slump becomes a launching point to a new level of performance.

Below are three proven strategies that will help you shift your mindset, reset your confidence, and **break out of a personal performance slump**.

### **3 Strategies to Break Out of a Personal Performance Slump**

#### **1. Keep Taking Your Shot**

Whatever your sport, stay aggressive. Don’t shy away from opportunities or play scared. Confidence grows from action—and persistence always pays off.

#### **2. Give Endless Effort**

Even during a slump, you can still impact the game. Hustle, energy, attitude, communication, and team play all matter. Contribution doesn’t always show up in the stat sheet.

#### **3. Ignore the Numbers**

Focusing on stats—scores, averages, times—only builds pressure. Instead, discipline your mind to focus on the process and the behaviors that lead to success.

### **FAQ – Breaking Out of a Performance Slump**

**Q: How long do performance slumps usually last?**
A: Slumps vary, but they shorten dramatically when athletes adjust their mindset and process.

**Q: What’s the fastest way to regain confidence during a slump?**
A: Keep taking action—keep shooting, keep swinging, keep competing. Action rebuilds confidence.

**Q: Can mental strategies really help me break out of a personal performance slump?**
A: Absolutely. Mindset determines how quickly you reset, regroup, and return to strong performance.

**Q: What should I focus on when nothing seems to work?**
A: Focus on effort, controllable habits, and the process—not the stats or outcomes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Mindset and Talent as Predictors for Athletic Success ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-talent-as-predictors-for-athletic-success/)
- [How to Turn a Bad Season Around](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-a-bad-season-around/)
- [How to Cope with Performance Meltdowns](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/cope-with-performance-meltdowns/)

---

### [The Confident Sports Kid (Digital Download)](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-sports-kid-cd-program/)

“**The Confident Sports Kid**” program is actually **two programs: one** that teaches sports parents how to boost their kids’ confidence, and another that teaches young athletes age 8 to 18 **how to improve their self talk, avoid negative thinking, overcome expectations that limit confidence**, and much more. The program will help kids boost their confidence in sports and life…and enjoy sports more.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-sports-kid-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Slump Busting, Slumps in Sports

---

### [4 Mental Keys to Mounting Improbable Comebacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mental-keys-to-mounting-improbable-comebacks/)

**Published:** January 15, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/comebacks.jpg)

## Mental Keys to Late-game Comebacks

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Mental Keys to Late-game Comebacks](#Mental_Keys_to_Late-game_Comebacks)
    - [That is the mental recipe for comebacks.](#That_is_the_mental_recipe_for_comebacks)
    - [4 Mental Keys to Mounting Improbable Comebacks](#4_Mental_Keys_to_Mounting_Improbable_Comebacks)
        - [1. Build Belief on Evidence](#1_Build_Belief_on_Evidence)
        - [2. Stop Staring at the Scoreboard](#2_Stop_Staring_at_the_Scoreboard)
        - [3. Stay Present](#3_Stay_Present)
        - [4. Take Calculated Risks](#4_Take_Calculated_Risks)
    - [FAQ – Mounting Comebacks in Your Sport](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Mounting_Comebacks_in_Your_Sport)
        - [Q: What causes athletes to fail during comeback attempts?](#Q_What_causes_athletes_to_fail_during_comeback_attempts)
        - [Q: How can athletes build belief during high-pressure moments?](#Q_How_can_athletes_build_belief_during_high-pressure_moments)
        - [Q: Why is staying present so important during comebacks?](#Q_Why_is_staying_present_so_important_during_comebacks)
        - [Q: Can young athletes learn comeback skills?](#Q_Can_young_athletes_learn_comeback_skills)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

SummaryImprobable comebacks in sports are rarely driven by luck or blind optimism. They are powered by belief built on preparation, repetition, and past success. When athletes stay present, focus on controllables, and trust the evidence they’ve already created, pressure shifts into opportunity. This article breaks down the four mental keys that allow athletes and teams to mount improbable comebacks — one play at a time.

What does it take to make an improbable comeback when trailing late in a game?

Talent? Sure.
A good game plan? Yes.

But the most significant factor in **improbable comebacks** is **belief**.

Not just belief — *“I believe we can win”* — but belief grounded in evidence.

For example:
*“I believe we can come back because we’ve done it before… I believe we can win because we practiced for this moment… I believe we can win because we’ve overcome the odds in the past.”*

Too often, athletes trailing by a large margin become consumed by the scoreboard. They start doing mental math instead of focusing on the next possession, play, or shot. Urgency turns into panic, decision-making tightens, and the comeback dies before it ever has a chance to begin.

Teams that pull off **improbable comebacks** understand that *improbable does not mean impossible*. Instead of shrinking, they become action-focused. One stop. One quality shot. One disciplined play.

Athletes who believe don’t dwell on early mistakes or potential outcomes. They stay anchored in the current play — the only moment where performance actually exists.

Belief becomes powerful when it is evidence-based. When athletes recall previous comebacks, pressure-filled practices, and moments of resilience, emotions stabilize and focus sharpens. Rather than playing recklessly, they look for opportunities to make positive plays and take calculated risks.

### That is the mental recipe for comebacks.

“Pure belief. Belief. That’s all you need,” said Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams after the Bears mounted an improbable comeback during the 2026 NFL playoffs.

Trailing their archrival Green Bay Packers by 18 points, the Bears scored 25 points in the fourth quarter. Williams threw two touchdowns and a two-point conversion in the final 4:18, securing a 31–27 wild-card win — Chicago’s first playoff victory in nearly 15 years and the largest postseason comeback in franchise history.

The Bears believed because they had evidence. They had already won six fourth-quarter comeback games during the regular season, including a victory over Green Bay just three weeks earlier. They didn’t just *hope* — they had practiced these scenarios repeatedly.

Williams explained:
“To be in those situations and to come out victorious, it’s no fluke. We’ve done it multiple times this year.”

Head coach Ben Johnson reinforced that belief at halftime, reminding the team that comebacks were part of their identity. Instead of *“woe is me,”* the message became *“this is an opportunity.”*

**Improbable comebacks** are not created by wishing harder. They are built through preparation, repetition, and trust in what you’ve already proven you can do.

### **4 Mental Keys to Mounting Improbable Comebacks**

#### **1. Build Belief on Evidence**

Belief is not blind optimism. It must be earned. Athletes build belief by recalling previous comebacks, pressure-filled practices, and moments where they have already overcome adversity. Evidence quiets doubt and stabilizes emotions when the moment gets big.

#### **2. Stop Staring at the Scoreboard**

Fixating on the deficit creates panic and urgency without direction. The scoreboard is information — not instruction. Lock in on how you can positively impact *this* possession, *this* play, *this* moment.

#### **3. Stay Present**

You can’t change earlier mistakes, and replaying them only pulls attention away from what matters. The athletes who mount comebacks stay rooted in the present, where effort, decision-making, and execution still matter.

#### **4. Take Calculated Risks**

Comebacks aren’t about playing hero ball. They’re about winning small moments. Trust your role, make disciplined decisions, and take smart risks aligned with preparation. Momentum builds when execution stays clean under pressure.

### **FAQ – Mounting Comebacks in Your Sport**

#### **Q: What causes athletes to fail during comeback attempts?**

A: Most comeback attempts fail because athletes become overwhelmed by the score, panic under urgency, or abandon disciplined decision-making in favor of reckless play.

#### **Q: How can athletes build belief during high-pressure moments?**

A: Belief is built before competition through repetition, simulated pressure, and reflecting on past successes. In the moment, athletes can anchor to those memories as evidence.

#### **Q: Why is staying present so important during comebacks?**

A: Focusing on the present prevents emotional overload. The only play an athlete can influence is the one happening right now.

#### **Q: Can young athletes learn comeback skills?**

A: Yes. Teaching athletes to focus on controllables, stay process-oriented, and trust preparation helps develop the mental habits required for future **improbable comebacks**.

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Comeback Mindset in Sports, Comebacks

---

### [3 Strategies to Overcome a Shooting Slump](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-strategies-to-overcome-a-shooting-slump/)

**Published:** February 22, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![3 Strategies to Overcome a Shooting Slump](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/shooting-slump-1.jpg)\#image\_title

## How do Athletes Regain Confidence in a Shooting Slump?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do Athletes Regain Confidence in a Shooting Slump?](#How_do_Athletes_Regain_Confidence_in_a_Shooting_Slump)
    - [Instead, athletes who get back on track quickly have three things in common:](#Instead_athletes_who_get_back_on_track_quickly_have_three_things_in_common)
    - [3 Strategies to Confidently Play Through a Shooting Slump](#3_Strategies_to_Confidently_Play_Through_a_Shooting_Slump)
    - [FAQ – Playing Through Shooting Slumps](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Playing_Through_Shooting_Slumps)
        - [How long does a shooting slump usually last?](#How_long_does_a_shooting_slump_usually_last)
        - [Should athletes change their mechanics during a slump?](#Should_athletes_change_their_mechanics_during_a_slump)
        - [What should athletes avoid thinking or doing during a slump?](#What_should_athletes_avoid_thinking_or_doing_during_a_slump)
        - [Is it normal for confident athletes to experience slumps?](#Is_it_normal_for_confident_athletes_to_experience_slumps)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

SummaryEvery shooter will experience a slump at some point. The difference between regaining form quickly and lingering frustration is mindset. Staying committed to your process, trusting your preparation, and holding onto your identity as a player are key to overcoming shooting slumps.

Where do your thoughts go when you are in a shooting slump? Do you become hyper-focused on mechanics and attempt to “fix your shot” mid-game?

Do you obsess over statistics, numbers, and outcomes instead of staying immersed in the game?

Do you judge yourself after a miss instead of moving on to your next opportunity?

All shooters, no matter if it’s basketball, hockey, soccer, lacrosse, or field hockey, eventually face a stretch where their goal production dips. Performance dips are a natural occurrence in sports, even when athletes maintain the same level of preparation and training.

The challenge for shooters in a slump is that there often appears to be no clear reason for their performance dip. Nothing has changed in their warm-up or practice routines. This leads to frustration and causes athletes to question their abilities.

The reality is that sometimes clean looks don’t fall. Sometimes, you push the ball wide of the goal. Sometimes, you are just a bit tired or under the weather.

The shooters who regain their form aren’t the ones who panic or search for quick fixes.

### Instead, athletes who get back on track quickly have three things in common:

1. **Elite scorers stay committed to the process.** These players continue to put the work in during practice and maintain a high level of preparation.
2. **Elite shooters stay true to their identity.** Elite scorers adopt the “Shooter’s shoot” mentality. Even when they miss several shots during a game, they continue to look for their shot.
3. **Top scorers trust their ability.** Elite scorers trust in their ability to produce during games, no matter what happened last week, last game, or during the first half.

During the 2026 NCAA season, Boise State University point guard Dylan Andrews struggled through a 7-for-40 shooting slump over a 6-game period. Whenever he was asked about the slump, Andrews said the key to a turnaround was to keep putting in the work and maintaining his preparation.

Eventually, Andrews’ commitment to the process paid off, and his production increased with three straight double-digit games.

**ANDREWS:** *“I wouldn’t say I had lost confidence or anything like that. It was more so just trusting myself, trusting the work I put in the days I’m in the gym, the days I’m tired and still want to come in. I know for a fact those are shots I make in the game, the shots I make in practice.”*

A shooting slump isn’t a failure. Nor is it a sign that you suddenly lost your ability.

Athletes who play through slumps with confidence don’t panic or try to force a solution. They believe in their identity, rely on their preparation, stay dedicated to the process, and trust they will bounce back.

Not only do these athletes regain their form, but they also reinforce the mindset that they can overcome any obstacle.

### **3 Strategies to Confidently Play Through a Shooting Slump**

**1. Maintain Your Positive Habits** – A slump may tempt you to overhaul your regimen. Be patient, keep putting in the work, and trust that the work will eventually pay off.

**2. Use Practice as Evidence** – Every success in practice provides evidence of your ability. In other words, if your shot is falling in practice, you can replicate those results in games.

**3. Hold True to Your Identity** – Remember, shooters, shoot, even after a few misses. Instead of seeing yourself as a player in a slump, recognize that you are a shooter who has temporarily missed some shots.

### **FAQ – Playing Through Shooting Slumps**

#### **How long does a shooting slump usually last?**

It varies. Some slumps last a few games; others extend longer. The key is maintaining preparation and confidence rather than forcing quick fixes.

#### **Should athletes change their mechanics during a slump?**

Only if a coach identifies a technical issue. Emotional reactions often cause athletes to over-adjust unnecessarily.

#### **What should athletes avoid thinking or doing during a slump?**

Avoid obsessing over missed shots, stats, or comparisons. Focus on effort, preparation, and trusting your process instead.

#### **Is it normal for confident athletes to experience slumps?**

Yes. Even elite players experience performance dips. Slumps are part of athletic growth.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Mindset and Talent as Predictors for Athletic Success ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-talent-as-predictors-for-athletic-success/)
- [How to Cope with Performance Meltdowns](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/cope-with-performance-meltdowns/)
- [How Mindset Beats Physique in Athletics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-mindset-beats-physique-in-athletics/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/ "The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)")

*“The Confident Athlete”* audio and workbook program helps you feel confident before you walk onto the field, track or court. You discover how to have stable and proactive confidence so you can think like a champion.

*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence-boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental ‘workouts’ can turbocharge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*

~Radek Sefcik, Peak Performance Sports Customer

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Golf Psychology, Mental Toughness

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### [3 Keys to a Pre-Competition Routine for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-keys-productive-pre-competition-routine-athletes/)

**Published:** March 26, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/pre-competition-routine.jpg)

## How Can Athletes Prepare Mentally Before Competition?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can Athletes Prepare Mentally Before Competition?](#How_Can_Athletes_Prepare_Mentally_Before_Competition)
    - [Why Your Pre-Competition Routine Matters More Than You Think](#Why_Your_Pre-Competition_Routine_Matters_More_Than_You_Think)
    - [Routines vs. Superstitions: An Important Distinction](#Routines_vs_Superstitions_An_Important_Distinction)
    - [What a Pre-Competition Routine Actually Does for Your Performance](#What_a_Pre-Competition_Routine_Actually_Does_for_Your_Performance)
        - [It Reduces Competitive Anxiety](#It_Reduces_Competitive_Anxiety)
        - [It Improves Focus and Mental Clarity](#It_Improves_Focus_and_Mental_Clarity)
        - [It Builds Confidence and a Sense of Readiness](#It_Builds_Confidence_and_a_Sense_of_Readiness)
    - [How Elite Athletes Use Routines to Manage Pressure](#How_Elite_Athletes_Use_Routines_to_Manage_Pressure)
    - [3 Keys to a Productive Pre-Competition Routine](#3_Keys_to_a_Productive_Pre-Competition_Routine)
        - [1. Keep It Consistent](#1_Keep_It_Consistent)
        - [2. Focus on What Actually Prepares You](#2_Focus_on_What_Actually_Prepares_You)
        - [3. Make It Simple and Personal](#3_Make_It_Simple_and_Personal)
    - [How to Start Building Your Routine Today](#How_to_Start_Building_Your_Routine_Today)
    - [The Bottom Line](#The_Bottom_Line)
    - [Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Competition Routines](#Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_Pre-Competition_Routines)
        - [What is a pre-competition routine in sports?](#What_is_a_pre-competition_routine_in_sports)
        - [How long should a pre-competition routine be?](#How_long_should_a_pre-competition_routine_be)
        - [What mental skills should be part of a pregame routine?](#What_mental_skills_should_be_part_of_a_pregame_routine)
        - [What is the difference between a sports routine and a superstition?](#What_is_the_difference_between_a_sports_routine_and_a_superstition)
        - [Can a bad warm-up ruin your competition performance?](#Can_a_bad_warm-up_ruin_your_competition_performance)
    - [About the Author](#About_the_Author)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

SummaryA pre-competition routine is one of the most powerful and underused tools in an athlete’s mental game. Dr. Patrick Cohn explains the difference between routines and superstitions, why a structured pregame process leads to more consistent performance, and three keys to building a routine that works for you.

### Why Your Pre-Competition Routine Matters More Than You Think

What do you do in the hour before competition? Do you have a consistent process that prepares your mind and body, or do you leave your mental state to chance?

Most athletes spend significant time preparing their physical skills. Far fewer have a deliberate mental preparation routine that gets them focused, confident, and ready to compete at their best. That gap is one of the biggest opportunities in sports performance.

**A well-designed pre-competition routine does not guarantee a win.** But it does create the consistent mental and physical starting point from which peak performance is most likely to emerge.

### Routines vs. Superstitions: An Important Distinction

Pre-competition routines are often misunderstood and too easily lumped in with superstitions. They are not the same thing, and the difference matters.

A superstition is a belief that a specific action will directly affect the outcome of a competition — even when there is no logical connection between the two. Wearing a lucky shirt, stepping over the baseline with the right foot, or tapping the door frame three times before taking the court are superstitions. The problem with superstitions is that athletes who rely on them often believe that skipping the ritual will cause bad luck or poor performance. That belief creates anxiety rather than relieving it.

**A pre-competition routine is fundamentally different.** It is a deliberate, pre-designed sequence of actions that helps you prepare mentally and physically for performance. It influences how you show up, not what happens on the scoreboard.

Dr. Cohn teaches this distinction in his Mental Edge system. A strong routine prepares you to perform. It builds confidence, sharpens focus, and calms nerves — all of which improve the probability of peak performance. A superstition just hopes for good luck.

### What a Pre-Competition Routine Actually Does for Your Performance

#### **It Reduces Competitive Anxiety**

Familiar actions signal to your brain that you are prepared. When your routine is consistent, your nervous system begins to recognize it as the starting sequence for competition. That recognition calms pre-game nerves and helps you approach the start of competition feeling ready rather than fearful.

#### **It Improves Focus and Mental Clarity**

A structured routine keeps your attention on controllable tasks — your warm-up, your process goals, your game plan — rather than on distractions like your opponent’s reputation, the size of the crowd, or the significance of the event. This is what Dr. Cohn describes as entering competition with a task-focused mindset rather than an outcome-focused mindset.

According to the Mental Edge pregame preparation system, the warm-up period is specifically not the time to worry about results, compare yourself to the competition, or wonder who is watching. Your full attention belongs on the preparation in front of you.

#### **It Builds Confidence and a Sense of Readiness**

When you complete the same preparation process before every competition, you accumulate a track record of readiness. Over time, your routine becomes its own source of confidence. Completing it reinforces the belief that you have done everything necessary to perform well.

Dr. Cohn teaches that proactive confidence — fueling your belief before competition rather than waiting to earn it from a good performance — is one of the foundations of consistent mental performance. Your pre-competition routine is one of the most reliable ways to generate that proactive confidence every single time you compete.

### **How Elite Athletes Use Routines to Manage Pressure**

UConn senior guard Azzi Fudd is a strong example of an athlete who uses a deliberate pre-game routine to prepare for high-stakes competition. Before every basketball game, Fudd follows the same four-step process: eating the same pre-game meal, reading or listening to a religious devotional, undergoing soft tissue bodywork, and completing a pre-game bathroom stop.

Prior to the 2026 NCAA basketball tournament, Fudd credited her routine for helping her stay grounded amid the excitement and pressure of March. Her goal was to remain present rather than getting caught up in anticipating what was coming weeks down the road.

Fudd’s approach reflects exactly what Dr. Cohn teaches about effective pregame preparation — that the routine is not just physical preparation. It is a mental tool for managing pressure, narrowing focus, and entering competition with composure rather than anxiety.

### **3 Keys to a Productive Pre-Competition Routine**

#### **1. Keep It Consistent**

A pre-competition routine only works if you actually repeat it. Consistency is what gives the routine its power. When you follow the same process before every competition, your mind and body begin to associate that sequence with the shift from preparation to performance.

**Do not save your routine for big events.** Use it before every practice and every competition. The athletes who benefit most from their routines are those who have built them through hundreds of repetitions — so that when the stakes are highest, the routine feels automatic and natural.

Dr. Cohn’s Mental Edge system identifies seven key mental steps for pregame preparation: transitioning from life to sport, discarding outcome expectations, fueling proactive confidence, focusing on the process, rehearsing your performance, preparing to trust your skills, and embracing pregame jitters as helpful energy. A consistent routine works through these steps every time, whether the competition is a regular season practice or a championship match.

#### **2. Focus on What Actually Prepares You**

Your routine should include the actions that genuinely help you feel physically ready and mentally focused — not actions you do out of habit or social pressure. That might include a specific pre-game meal, a playlist that sharpens your intensity, stretching or movement that activates your body, visualization of your performance, quiet time to review your process goals, or conversation with a teammate you trust.

One of the most important mental steps athletes overlook is mental rehearsal. Dr. Cohn teaches that your warm-up is an excellent opportunity to rehearse your performance from a first-person perspective — seeing yourself executing your game plan with confidence and composure. This rehearsal primes your nervous system for the performance and builds the belief that you are ready.

**Your routine should also include a deliberate transition from your everyday life into your role as an athlete.** Parking distractions, worries, or stress from outside of sport before you begin your warm-up is a critical step that many athletes skip entirely. When you carry life’s noise into your pre-game preparation, it competes with your focus and drains your mental energy before competition even starts.

#### **3. Make It Simple and Personal**

The best routines are not the most elaborate ones. They are the ones that fit the athlete. A routine that feels forced or overly complicated will not hold up under pressure. A routine that feels natural and suits your preparation style will.

Start with two or three anchor actions that reliably help you feel focused and ready. Build from there based on your experience. Pay attention to which parts of your warm-up leave you feeling sharp and confident, and which parts leave you distracted or flat. Over time, you will develop a routine that is uniquely yours — and that reliability becomes one of your greatest competitive assets.

One important note from Dr. Cohn: do not judge the quality of your warm-up as a predictor of how you will compete. A rough warm-up does not mean a bad performance. Once competition begins, your focus improves, your adrenaline sharpens your attention, and your trained skills take over. Trust your preparation, not your warm-up results.

### **How to Start Building Your Routine Today**

You likely already have a pre-competition routine — you just may not have made it deliberate yet. Think about what you consistently do in the hour before a competition. Which of those actions actually help you feel ready? Which ones are just habits you have never questioned?

Write down the physical and mental steps you want to include and put them in order. Practice running through the full routine before your next training session. Refine it based on what works. After several repetitions, it will begin to feel automatic — and that is exactly when it becomes most powerful.

### **The Bottom Line**

Azzi Fudd’s pre-game ritual is a reminder that elite performance does not happen by accident. It is prepared for deliberately. Her routine is not about luck — it is about creating the mental and physical conditions that give her the best chance to perform at her highest level every time she steps on the court.

**A consistent, well-designed pre-competition routine reduces anxiety, sharpens focus, and builds the confidence you need to compete freely.** Build yours with intention, repeat it with discipline, and trust what it prepares you to do.

If you want personalized help developing a pregame routine and mental performance system, Peak Performance Sports offers coaching for athletes, coaches, and sports parents worldwide. Call 407-909-1700 or visit PeakSports.com to learn more about our programs.

### **Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Competition Routines**

#### **What is a pre-competition routine in sports?**

A pre-competition routine is a deliberate, repeatable sequence of physical and mental actions that an athlete performs before competing. It is designed to reduce anxiety, sharpen focus, build confidence, and create a consistent mental and physical starting point for performance. Unlike superstitions, which are based on luck, a pre-competition routine works because it directly influences how prepared and focused you feel when competition begins.

#### **How long should a pre-competition routine be?**

The right length depends on your sport, your schedule, and what you personally need to feel prepared. Most effective routines run anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours before competition. What matters more than length is that the routine is consistent and includes both physical preparation and intentional mental preparation — transitioning into your athlete role, fueling confidence, setting process goals, and mentally rehearsing your performance.

#### **What mental skills should be part of a pregame routine?**

Dr. Cohn’s Mental Edge system identifies seven mental preparation steps for an effective pregame routine: transitioning from everyday life into your athlete role, letting go of outcome expectations, fueling proactive confidence, focusing on process goals rather than results, mentally rehearsing your performance and game plan, preparing to trust your skills rather than overthink your mechanics, and embracing pregame nervousness as helpful energy rather than something to fear.

#### **What is the difference between a sports routine and a superstition?**

A sports routine is a deliberate preparation process grounded in logic — it influences your mental and physical readiness in concrete ways. A superstition is a belief that a specific action controls an outcome with no logical connection between the two. Routines build confidence and focus. Superstitions create anxiety when they are disrupted. Elite athletes rely on routines, not superstitions, to consistently reach peak performance.

#### **Can a bad warm-up ruin your competition performance?**

Not if you have the right mindset about it. A poor warm-up does not predict a poor performance. Once competition begins, the adrenaline and focus that come with the moment often sharpen an athlete’s performance significantly compared to how they felt in warm-up. Dr. Cohn’s advice is to never judge your readiness based on how your warm-up felt. Trust your training, trust your preparation routine, and let your skills take over when it counts.

### **About the Author**

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental performance coach and the founder of Peak Performance Sports. With more than 40 years of experience working with professional athletes, college competitors, and coaches across all sports, Dr. Cohn is one of the most respected sports psychologists in the world. He is the creator of the Mental Edge system and the founder of the Mental Game Coaching Professional (MGCP) certification program. Dr. Cohn works with athletes and coaches worldwide via video coaching sessions. To schedule a free 15-minute consultation, call 407-909-1700 or visit PeakSports.com.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [3 Ways to Build a Positive Team Identity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-build-a-positive-team-identity/)
- [Use Sports Psychology to Evaluate Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/use-sports-psychology-to-evaluate-performance/)
- [Mindset and Talent as Predictors for Athletic Success ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-talent-as-predictors-for-athletic-success/)

---

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 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [3 Ways to Improve Athletic Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-continually-elevate-athletic-performance/)

**Published:** April 24, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/performance-sports.jpg)

## **How Can Mental Performance Coaching Help Athletes?**

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can Mental Performance Coaching Help Athletes?](#How_Can_Mental_Performance_Coaching_Help_Athletes)
    - [What Is the Mindset of Athletes Who Continually Improve?](#What_Is_the_Mindset_of_Athletes_Who_Continually_Improve)
    - [The Yaxel Lendeborg Example: What Real Athletic Growth Looks Like](#The_Yaxel_Lendeborg_Example_What_Real_Athletic_Growth_Looks_Like)
    - [Why Do Athletes Plateau and How Do You Break Through?](#Why_Do_Athletes_Plateau_and_How_Do_You_Break_Through)
    - [3 Ways to Continually Elevate Athletic Performance](#3_Ways_to_Continually_Elevate_Athletic_Performance)
        - [Strategy 1: Never Settle for Comfort Over Growth](#Strategy_1_Never_Settle_for_Comfort_Over_Growth)
        - [Strategy 2: Stay Committed When Results Are Invisible](#Strategy_2_Stay_Committed_When_Results_Are_Invisible)
        - [Strategy 3: Actively Seek Feedback and Adjust](#Strategy_3_Actively_Seek_Feedback_and_Adjust)
    - [How Can Mental Performance Coaching Help You Elevate Your Game?](#How_Can_Mental_Performance_Coaching_Help_You_Elevate_Your_Game)
    - [The Decision to Elevate Is Made Every Day](#The_Decision_to_Elevate_Is_Made_Every_Day)
    - [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [THE FEARLESS ATHLETE (DIGITAL DOWNLOAD)](#THE_FEARLESS_ATHLETE_DIGITAL_DOWNLOAD)

SummaryThe athletes who keep getting better throughout their careers all share one thing in common: mindset. Not talent. Not opportunity. Mindset. This post covers what separates athletes who plateau from those who keep elevating, using Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg as a real-world example, and gives you three mental performance strategies to apply to your own career.

What separates the athletes who keep getting better from the ones who plateau?

It’s not always talent. It’s not always coaching. And it’s definitely not luck. In most cases, the difference comes down to one thing: how an athlete thinks about progress and responds when progress is hard to see.

Every athlete hits walls. You train hard, compete with everything you have, and still feel like your performance isn’t moving forward. It’s one of the most frustrating experiences in sports. And when you look across the locker room and see teammates improving who seem less committed than you, the frustration compounds.

This is the moment that defines athletic careers. And **mental performance coaching for athletes** is built around helping you navigate exactly these moments.

### **What Is the Mindset of Athletes Who Continually Improve?**

Athletes who consistently elevate their performance share three core beliefs: that progress in sport is not linear, that growth often happens invisibly before it appears as results, and that sustained effort is required even when external results aren’t visible. These beliefs allow them to stay committed through plateaus that would cause others to lower their standards or reduce their effort.

The contrast is athletes who plateau internally. They start to believe they’ve maxed out. Their standards drop. Their motivation fades. Their self-belief erodes. This is not a talent problem. It’s a mental skills problem, and it’s one that [sports psychology for athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/) directly addresses.

### **The Yaxel Lendeborg Example: What Real Athletic Growth Looks Like**

Few careers illustrate the **athletic performance mindset** better than Yaxel Lendeborg’s path to the 2026 NCAA Championship with Michigan.

Lendeborg didn’t start at the top. He spent three years at Arizona Western Junior College, improving his scoring average each year: 6.1 points per game, then 12.0, then 17.2. He wasn’t getting hot. He was getting better.

He transferred to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he became one of only two players in NCAA Division I history to record over 600 points, 400 rebounds, and 150 assists in a single season. Then, for his final year of eligibility, he transferred to Michigan and made a deliberate decision to expand his game, attempting more three-pointers in one season (180) than he had in his previous five combined. He connected at 37%.

After Michigan’s championship run, Lendeborg reflected on the journey:

*“It’s amazing how much can change in a year, and this journey has been incredible. I’ll remember it for the rest of my life.”*

His breakthrough wasn’t sudden. It was the result of years of unseen work, steady belief, and a consistent decision to raise his own ceiling.

### **Why Do Athletes Plateau and How Do You Break Through?**

Athletes plateau when they conflate a lack of visible results with a lack of real progress. When this happens, the internal response is frustration, and frustration leads to lowered effort, which leads to actual stagnation. It’s a cycle that **sports psychology tips** are designed to interrupt.

Progress in sport is often happening beneath the surface before it shows up in stats or results. The athlete who understands this stays committed through the frustrating middle phase. The athlete who doesn’t will reduce effort at exactly the wrong moment.

Working with a [mental performance coach](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coach/) gives you a structured way to recognize and respond to these moments rather than getting derailed by them.

### **3 Ways to Continually Elevate Athletic Performance**

#### **Strategy 1: Never Settle for Comfort Over Growth**

The most dangerous place for an athlete is a comfortable plateau. When performance levels off and things feel manageable, the temptation to stop pushing becomes strong. It feels like rest. In reality, it’s the beginning of decline.

The athletes who sustain growth throughout their careers refuse to make peace with where they are. Even in low-motivation periods, they remain disciplined enough to show up and put in the work. That discipline is itself a **mental toughness sports** skill that can be trained.

Ask yourself: Am I training to improve, or am I training to maintain? The answer shapes everything that follows. If you’ve been maintaining, it’s time to raise the bar, and a [sports psychology coach](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychologist-near-me/) can help you identify exactly where to push.

#### **Strategy 2: Stay Committed When Results Are Invisible**

This is the hardest part of sustained athletic development. You’re putting in the work. You’re showing up. But nothing is showing up on the scoreboard or the stat sheet yet.

Lendeborg spent three years at junior college posting modest numbers before the growth became visible at UAB and eventually at Michigan. The work he put in during those invisible years was not wasted. It was necessary. He just couldn’t see it yet.

The mental skill here is trusting the process even when you can’t see the results. This takes a specific kind of belief, one that is built through **mental performance coaching for athletes** and reinforced through consistent daily effort. The effort you invest today is building something for tomorrow.

#### **Strategy 3: Actively Seek Feedback and Adjust**

One of the most common reasons athletes plateau is that they keep doing the same things expecting different results. Lendeborg didn’t just keep shooting twos because that was comfortable. He identified that expanding his three-point range would make him a better overall player and committed to it fully.

Ask your coaches for specific, honest feedback. Seek out an outside perspective. What are you not seeing about your own game? Where are the gaps that you’re glossing over because fixing them feels hard?

This kind of openness to feedback is part of the growth mindset that underpins elite **athletic performance mindset** work. If you want a structured system for identifying your mental and physical development areas, [book a free session with us](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) and we’ll show you how.

You can also start with our [top mental game questions for athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/top-mental-game-questions-athletes-ask/) for a quick self-assessment of your mental performance strengths and gaps.

### **How Can Mental Performance Coaching Help You Elevate Your Game?**

Talent gets you to a certain level. Mindset is what takes you beyond it.

At Peak Performance Sports, we work with athletes across all sports to build the mental skills that produce consistent performance growth. We help athletes identify why they’re plateauing, build the mental toughness to push through it, and develop the habits that sustain improvement over the long haul.

Whether you’re trying to [break out of a slump](https://www.peaksports.com/how-to-break-out-of-a-slump-in-sports-a-mental-performance-guide/), elevate your consistency, or simply compete with more confidence, our coaches have a proven framework that works.

### **The Decision to Elevate Is Made Every Day**

Yaxel Lendeborg didn’t become a Big Ten Player of the Year and an NCAA champion in one season. He made the decision to elevate his game over and over again, across multiple programs, through multiple plateaus, for years before anyone was watching.

That’s what real athletic growth looks like. It’s not glamorous. It’s consistent. It’s the result of a specific mindset, applied daily.

Never settle. Keep grinding. Seek honest feedback. These aren’t clichés. They’re the core strategies of athletes who continually elevate their performance throughout their careers.

If you want a mental performance system that helps you do exactly that, [schedule a free session with a mental performance coach](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) at Peak Performance Sports today. The next phase of your athletic career starts with the right mindset.

### **Frequently Asked Questions**

**Q: Why do athletes plateau even when they work hard?**

Athletes often plateau when they conflate hard work with smart growth. Repeating the same training patterns without deliberate adjustment leads to diminishing returns. The mental side also plays a role: frustration at a plateau can cause athletes to reduce their standards without realizing it. **Mental performance coaching for athletes** addresses both the mental and strategic components of breaking through plateaus.

**Q: What is the growth mindset in sports?**

A growth mindset in sports is the belief that abilities can be developed through effort, feedback, and commitment. Athletes with a growth mindset see plateaus as part of the process rather than evidence of a ceiling. They stay open to feedback and continue pushing even when progress isn’t immediately visible. This belief system is at the core of **sports psychology for athletes** training.

**Q: How do I stay motivated when I’m not seeing progress?**

Focus on the inputs you control, not the outcomes you can’t. Define progress as your effort quality, your commitment to feedback, and your adherence to your preparation routines. Progress in sport is often invisible before it becomes visible. A [mental performance coach](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coach/) can help you build the belief systems that sustain motivation through the hard middle phases of development.

**Q: Can sports psychology help athletes who feel stuck?**

Yes. Feeling stuck is one of the most common issues athletes bring to **mental performance coaching**. Coaches help athletes identify the mental blocks contributing to the plateau, rebuild their confidence, and create a plan for moving forward. Many athletes who feel stuck are actually closer to a breakthrough than they realize.

**Q: What separates athletes who make it to the elite level?**

Beyond physical talent, elite athletes consistently demonstrate the ability to push through adversity, respond to feedback, and maintain belief in their process when results are hard to see. These are trainable mental skills, not fixed traits. [Sports psychology for athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/) specifically targets the mental performance gaps that prevent talented athletes from reaching their ceiling.

**About the Author**

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental performance coach and founder of Peak Performance Sports. With 35+ years of experience helping athletes at all levels reach their potential, Dr. Cohn is a leading authority in sports psychology and mental performance coaching. Contact us at PeakSports.com or call 407-909-1700.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)
- [4 Ways to Overcome Self-Doubt for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-to-overcome-self-doubt-for-athletes/)
- [4 Strategies to Deal with Doubters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-deal-with-doubters/)

---

### [THE FEARLESS ATHLETE (DIGITAL DOWNLOAD)](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [3 Strategies to Build Team Competitiveness in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/team-competitiveness-sports/)

**Published:** April 18, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/sports-competitiveness.jpg)

## **How do Athletes Build Team Competitiveness?**

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do Athletes Build Team Competitiveness?](#How_do_Athletes_Build_Team_Competitiveness)
    - [What Is Internal Competition and Why Does It Build Better Teams?](#What_Is_Internal_Competition_and_Why_Does_It_Build_Better_Teams)
    - [Why Most Teams Avoid the Competition They Need Most](#Why_Most_Teams_Avoid_the_Competition_They_Need_Most)
    - [How Does Daily Internal Competition Actually Improve Performance?](#How_Does_Daily_Internal_Competition_Actually_Improve_Performance)
    - [How Can Coaches Create a Competitive Culture in Practice?](#How_Can_Coaches_Create_a_Competitive_Culture_in_Practice)
    - [What Role Does Mental Toughness Play in Team Competitiveness?](#What_Role_Does_Mental_Toughness_Play_in_Team_Competitiveness)
    - [3 Ways to Improve Team Competitiveness in Sports](#3_Ways_to_Improve_Team_Competitiveness_in_Sports)
    - [Conclusion](#Conclusion)
    - [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)

SummaryThe most competitive teams aren’t built on talent alone. They’re built on daily internal competition that sharpens focus, raises accountability, and creates a culture where everyone pushes each other to improve. When coaches and athletes embrace this approach, individual and team performance both rise. The key is channeling that competition toward shared goals rather than individual ego.

What separates a good team from a great one? It’s rarely just talent. Most coaches will tell you the difference is **team competitiveness**, and specifically, how competitive a team is in practice every single day.

Many athletes think of competition as something that happens against an opponent. But the teams that consistently perform at a high level compete fiercely against each other in training. They push, challenge, and hold each other to a higher standard.

The University of Michigan men’s hockey team showed exactly what this looks like in the 2025-26 season. By focusing on **internal competition in sports** at every practice, they went from an 18-15-3 record to a 31-8-1 mark, a Big Ten tournament title, and an NCAA Frozen Four semifinal appearance.

Here’s why this works and how your team can do the same.

### **What Is Internal Competition and Why Does It Build Better Teams?**

Internal competition is when teammates push each other to raise the standard every day in practice, not just in games. When done right, it improves focus, reinforces accountability, builds trust, and trains athletes to compete instinctively. It’s one of the most powerful drivers of both individual growth and **team competitiveness in sports**.

Many athletes shy away from internal competition because they fear it creates division. But that’s a misunderstanding of what healthy competition looks like. When teammates challenge each other with respect and a shared purpose, it builds cohesion, not conflict.

The goal isn’t to show up your teammate. It’s to make your teammate better, and in turn, make the team better. That mindset shift is everything.

### **Why Most Teams Avoid the Competition They Need Most**

There are several reasons athletes resist **internal competition in sports**. Some athletes see competition as something reserved for opponents. Others worry that pushing a teammate will create jealousy or hurt team chemistry.

There’s also the discomfort factor. Competing hard every day demands consistent focus and effort. It means your weaknesses can be exposed in front of coaches and teammates. That vulnerability is uncomfortable, especially for athletes who tie their self-worth to performance.

And some teams simply lack the culture. If coaches don’t set expectations and hold players accountable, complacency becomes the norm. “Good enough” becomes acceptable, and the team plateaus.

A [mental performance coach](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coach/) can help teams build the mental foundation needed to embrace this kind of competition productively.

### **How Does Daily Internal Competition Actually Improve Performance?**

Daily internal competition raises performance because it forces every athlete to stay engaged, prepared, and accountable. When each player knows their role isn’t guaranteed, complacency disappears. Every rep, drill, and practice session carries weight. Over time, this creates habits of intensity and focus that transfer directly into **team performance in games**.

Michigan’s captain TJ Hughes summed it up perfectly after the team’s breakout 2025-26 season: “I just think so many great people, guys who go to work every single day, want to get better, want to push each other. We have so many great human beings on our team who want to push each other each day and want to be the best versions of themselves. That’s what gave us the success we had this year.”

That culture didn’t happen by accident. It was built intentionally through daily competitive habits and a shared commitment to team goals over individual recognition.

The [mental game of team sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/) requires this kind of intentional culture. It doesn’t develop on its own.

### **How Can Coaches Create a Competitive Culture in Practice?**

Coaches create a **competitive team culture** by setting clear daily expectations, making every practice rep count, and holding players accountable for effort and focus, not just results. When coaches and team leaders model competitiveness with purpose and communicate that pushing each other is an act of respect, athletes begin to embrace it rather than avoid it.

Structured competition within practice also helps. Drills that have consequences, small-sided games with clear objectives, and performance tracking all create an environment where athletes compete for real stakes every day.

The key is making sure athletes understand the “why” behind the competition. When they see that internal competition serves team success, not individual ego, the culture shifts.

If you’re a coach looking to build this kind of environment, [sports psychology training for teams](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/) can give you the tools and frameworks to do it effectively.

### **What Role Does Mental Toughness Play in Team Competitiveness?**

Mental toughness is the foundation of sustainable **team competitiveness in sports**. It’s what allows athletes to compete hard when they’re tired, frustrated, or facing adversity. Without it, internal competition becomes inconsistent, and teams revert to complacency when pressure rises. **Mental toughness** in team sports means committing to the competitive standard every day, not just when it’s easy.

Teams that build mental toughness together develop a shared resilience. When one player struggles, others pick up the intensity. When the team falls behind in a game, they’ve already practiced competing under adversity in training.

This is why [sports psychology for athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/top-mental-game-questions-athletes-ask/) increasingly focuses on the team level, not just individual mindset. Mental skills are more powerful when they’re shared across a roster.

### **3 Ways to Improve Team Competitiveness in Sports**

**1. Desire to improve every day.** Each player must have a genuine commitment to raising their level of play. When improvement becomes the priority, effort, focus, and accountability follow naturally. This isn’t about being the best on the team. It’s about being better today than you were yesterday.

**2. Go to work every day with intention.** Competitiveness is built through consistent daily effort, not occasional bursts of intensity. Showing up ready to work each day creates habits that translate into reliable performance under pressure. One off-day can be excused. A pattern of inconsistency cannot.

**3. Push each other with respect and purpose.** Successful teams challenge one another to raise the standard. When teammates push each other with shared purpose and mutual respect, everyone improves and the team becomes stronger as a whole. If you’re ready to bring this kind of culture to your team, [book a free session](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) with a mental performance coach today.

### **Conclusion**

True **team competitiveness in sports** isn’t built in game week. It’s built on Tuesday afternoon in a practice nobody outside the building sees. When athletes compete hard every day, hold each other accountable, and push each other toward shared goals, the results show up when it matters most.

Michigan’s transformation from .500 hockey to the Frozen Four is proof. The talent didn’t change dramatically. The competitive culture did.

If your team is ready to build that culture, [schedule a free session with a mental performance coach](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) at Peak Performance Sports. Let’s build the mental foundation your team needs to compete at its best.

### **Frequently Asked Questions**

**What is team competitiveness in sports?**

Team competitiveness is the collective drive of a group of athletes to push each other, maintain high standards, and compete intensely both in practice and in games. It’s built through internal competition, shared accountability, and a culture where every rep and every day is treated as an opportunity to improve. Learn more through [sports psychology training for athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/).

**How does internal competition improve team performance?**

When teammates compete against each other in practice, complacency decreases and intensity rises. Every player knows their role isn’t guaranteed, which sharpens focus and effort. Over time, this raises the baseline level of play for every individual on the roster, which directly elevates the team’s overall performance in games.

**Can internal competition hurt team chemistry?**

Internal competition only damages chemistry when it’s driven by ego or poorly managed. When coaches set clear expectations and athletes understand the goal is team success, not individual dominance, internal competition actually builds trust and respect. Teammates who push each other for the right reasons develop deeper bonds over time.

**What is the role of a coach in building a competitive team culture?**

Coaches set the tone for competitive culture by establishing clear daily expectations, creating structured competitive drills, and holding every player accountable to the same standard. They also shape how athletes understand competition, helping them see that pushing teammates is an act of care and respect, not aggression.

**How can a mental performance coach help teams become more competitive?**A [mental performance coach](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) works with teams and coaches to build the mental habits that sustain competitiveness: focus, accountability, resilience, and trust. These are the same mental skills that separate teams like Michigan’s 2025-26 squad from average programs. Mental training is a skill, and it can be developed systematically.

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness

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### [3 Tips for Helping Young Athletes Stay Mentally Engaged from Start to Finish](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-tips-for-helping-young-athletes-stay-mentally-engaged-from-start-to-finish/)

**Published:** January 22, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![3 Tips for Helping Young Athletes Stay Mentally Engaged from Start to Finish
](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/engaged-mentally.jpg)\#image\_title## How Can Parents Help Athletes Improve Focused?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can Parents Help Athletes Improve Focused?](#How_Can_Parents_Help_Athletes_Improve_Focused)
    - [3 Ways Parents Can Support Mental Engagement in Young Athletes](#3_Ways_Parents_Can_Support_Mental_Engagement_in_Young_Athletes)
    - [FAQ – Mental Focus in Sports](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Mental_Focus_in_Sports)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [THE FEARLESS ATHLETE (DIGITAL DOWNLOAD)](#THE_FEARLESS_ATHLETE_DIGITAL_DOWNLOAD)

SummaryMany young athletes are physically present during competition but mentally disconnected. Mental engagement—the ability to stay present, refocus after mistakes, and manage emotions—is a critical skill for consistent performance. This article explains why mental engagement matters and how parents can support their child’s ability to stay focused from the first whistle to the final play.

As a sports parent, how often do you notice your child physically present in a game—but mentally somewhere else?

One of the biggest challenges across youth and competitive sports is **mental engagement**. Skill, strength, and conditioning matter, but when focus drifts, decision-making declines, effort drops, and confidence wavers.

When athletes aren’t mentally immersed in competition, their talent and preparation can’t fully show up.

Upsets, comebacks, and clutch performances usually have less to do with physical dominance and more to do with an athlete’s ability to stay mentally engaged—regardless of mistakes, momentum swings, or pressure.

All sports demand sustained focus through emotional highs and lows, fatigue, adversity, and unpredictable moments. Expecting young athletes to stay focused every second is unrealistic. Even elite athletes lose concentration.

What separates athletes who finish strong from those who fade is how quickly and effectively they refocus.

Mental engagement isn’t about being “locked in” all the time. It’s about repeatedly bringing attention back to what matters *right now*.

When an athlete makes a mistake—misses a shot, turns the ball over, strikes out—the key isn’t avoiding frustration. The key is resetting quickly and recommitting to the next play.

Parents often notice this late in games or matches. Fatigue sets in. Body language drops. Focus drifts.

Instead of forcing constant intensity, athletes benefit from learning how to mentally reset during natural breaks—timeouts, substitutions, between points, or stoppages in play.

This is the essence of **mental engagement**. Rather than letting circumstances dictate performance, re-engagement brings attention back to controllables—effort, positioning, communication, breathing, and attitude.

Even elite athletes experience lapses. The difference is that they recognize them quickly and use brief moments to calm emotions, clear their mind, and prepare for what’s next.

Mental engagement keeps athletes focused on competing instead of fighting their own thoughts.

At the 2026 United Cup, No. 11-ranked Belinda Bencic rallied from a set down to defeat No. 2-ranked Iga Swiatek, 3–6, 6–0, 6–3. Prior to the match, Bencic had lost her previous five meetings with Swiatek.

After dropping the first set, Bencic didn’t panic or disengage. She stayed mentally present, waited for opportunities, and steadily flipped the momentum—winning nine straight games and closing out the match confidently.

BENCIC:
“To be honest, I felt I was in the match from the very first point. I thought I was going great, and I was 0–3 down. I was like, ‘OK, what do I have to do?’ I just tried to keep the level and wait for some chances. The difference today was I played very freely, I was enjoying myself, and I was just really going for it.”

Across sports, performances are often decided not by who is the most talented, but by who stays mentally engaged and can refocus after distractions.

Mental engagement is a skill—and like any skill, it can be developed. When athletes learn how to reset, refocus, and stay present, confidence and consistency rise.

### **3 Ways Parents Can Support Mental Engagement in Young Athletes**

**1. Emphasize the Next Play, Not the Score**

Shift attention away from outcomes and toward the present task. Encourage questions like, “What’s your job right now?” or “What are you focused on this point, shift, or possession?” This helps athletes stay process-focused instead of outcome-focused.

**2. Normalize Mistakes**

Mistakes are part of competition. Help your child avoid self-judgment by reinforcing simple reset cues such as “Next play,” or “Be where your feet are.” Normalizing mistakes allows athletes to re-engage faster instead of spiraling emotionally.

**3. Encourage Emotional Balance**

Big emotions—both positive and negative—pull athletes out of the present moment. Teach calm breathing, controlled body language, and consistent routines between plays to help them stay grounded and mentally engaged under pressure.

### **FAQ – Mental Focus in Sports**

**What is mental engagement in sports?**

Mental engagement is an athlete’s ability to stay present, focused, and emotionally balanced throughout competition, especially after mistakes or distractions.

**Why do young athletes lose mental engagement during games?**

Fatigue, pressure, mistakes, emotions, and focusing too much on the score or outcome can all pull attention away from the present moment.

**Can mental engagement be trained?**

Yes. Mental engagement is a skill that improves through awareness, reset routines, breathing strategies, and consistent reinforcement from parents and coaches.

**How can parents help during games without adding pressure?**

Focus on effort, mindset, and controllables rather than results. Use calm, process-oriented language that reinforces refocusing and resilience.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [5 Ways to Deal with Athletic Setbacks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-deal-with-athletic-setbacks/)
- [4 Ways to Overcome Self-Doubt for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-ways-to-overcome-self-doubt-for-athletes/)
- [4 Strategies to Deal with Doubters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-deal-with-doubters/)

---

### [THE FEARLESS ATHLETE (DIGITAL DOWNLOAD)](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Golf Confidence, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [4 Steps to Unlock a Breakout Season in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-steps-to-unlock-a-breakout-season-in-sports/)

**Published:** May 7, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![What Mental Strategies Do Elite Athletes Use to Comeback?](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/comeback.jpg)

## What Does it Take to Have a Breakout Season?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Does it Take to Have a Breakout Season?](#What_Does_it_Take_to_Have_a_Breakout_Season)
- [Why Do Most Athletes Never Have a Breakout Season?](#Why_Do_Most_Athletes_Never_Have_a_Breakout_Season)
- [The Three Mental Pillars Behind Every Breakout Season](#The_Three_Mental_Pillars_Behind_Every_Breakout_Season)
- [How Ildemaro Vargas Built a Breakout Season at Age 34](#How_Ildemaro_Vargas_Built_a_Breakout_Season_at_Age_34)
- [What Role Does Mindset Play in a Breakout Athletic Season?](#What_Role_Does_Mindset_Play_in_a_Breakout_Athletic_Season)
- [How Do Trust and Preparation Work Together to Unlock Your Potential?](#How_Do_Trust_and_Preparation_Work_Together_to_Unlock_Your_Potential)
- [4 Steps to Start Building Your Breakout Season Today](#4_Steps_to_Start_Building_Your_Breakout_Season_Today)
- [Your Best Athletic Season May Still Be Ahead of You](#Your_Best_Athletic_Season_May_Still_Be_Ahead_of_You)
- [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)
    - [What is the mental game in sports?](#What_is_the_mental_game_in_sports)
    - [How does a growth mindset lead to better athletic performance?](#How_does_a_growth_mindset_lead_to_better_athletic_performance)
    - [What is athletic trust and how do you build it?](#What_is_athletic_trust_and_how_do_you_build_it)
    - [Can older athletes still have breakout seasons?](#Can_older_athletes_still_have_breakout_seasons)
    - [How does working with a mental performance coach help athletes?](#How_does_working_with_a_mental_performance_coach_help_athletes)

Summary*Breakout seasons do not happen by accident. They are built on a specific combination of mindset, preparation, and trust. When those three elements align, athletes stop playing within limits and start competing with freedom. In this post, you will discover the 4 mental game steps that drive breakthrough athletic performance, backed by the story of Ildemaro Vargas and his record-setting MLB season.*

You have probably seen it happen. An athlete who seemed decent for years suddenly puts everything together and has a career year. Other athletes go their entire career never quite reaching their potential, even though everyone around them could see the talent was there.

The difference is rarely physical. It is mental.

Research in sports psychology consistently shows that mindset, preparation habits, and trust in your own abilities are the primary drivers of breakthrough athletic performance. [Studies on peak performance in sport](https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/uasp20) confirm that when these elements align, athletes stop playing not to lose and start competing to win.

At 34 years old, Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Ildemaro Vargas is doing something most professional baseball players never experience this late in their career. He is having the best season of his life. Vargas extended his hitting streak to 27 games, breaking the major league record for a Venezuelan native. His batting average reached .404. He led the National League in batting average and slugging percentage.

And his manager, Torey Lovullo, made clear that none of it was luck. Lovullo said Vargas is fearless and credited the breakout to preparation: “All the things he is doing in the quiet time are preparing him for these moments.”

Vargas is a powerful reminder that athletic potential does not have an expiration date. A breakout season is built in the mind as much as it is built in the gym.

## Why Do Most Athletes Never Have a Breakout Season?

Most athletes never have a breakout season because one or more of the three key performance drivers, mindset, preparation, and trust, is missing or inconsistent. Without a growth mindset, athletes become results-focused during slumps and lose motivation to keep improving. Without consistent preparation, performance stays up and down. Without trust in their skills, athletes compete cautiously instead of freely. [Research published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology](https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/uasp20) identifies confidence and trust as critical performance mediators in competitive sport.

This is more common than most people realize. Athletes with genuine talent never reach their ceiling because they are stuck in a cycle of inconsistency. They have great moments but cannot string them together. The mental side of the game is often the missing piece.

## The Three Mental Pillars Behind Every Breakout Season

Three mental elements drive breakout athletic performance: a growth mindset, intentional preparation, and trust. A growth mindset, a concept developed by Stanford researcher [Carol Dweck](https://psychology.stanford.edu/people/carol-s-dweck), means measuring success by progress rather than results. Athletes with a growth mindset stay motivated during slumps because they see setbacks as information, not failure.

Intentional preparation is about the quality of your effort, not just the volume. Vargas’ manager called out exactly this point. What Vargas is doing in the quiet time is preparing him for the biggest moments. Athletes who prepare with intention build a reservoir of confidence they can draw on when the competitive pressure rises.

Trust is what allows everything else to show up in competition. When an athlete genuinely trusts their mechanics, their preparation, and their instincts, they compete freely. The body does what it is trained to do without interference from self-doubt or overthinking. That combination is what turns a good season into a breakout year.

## How Ildemaro Vargas Built a Breakout Season at Age 34

Vargas has been a professional baseball player since he was 16 years old, working his way through the St. Louis Cardinals organization and multiple stops across the major leagues. For most of his career, he was regarded as a solid utility player. Steady but unremarkable.

Then at 34, everything clicked.

Lovullo’s praise of Vargas centers specifically on his fearlessness and his preparation habits. Those two things are deeply connected in sports psychology. Fearlessness in competition is not the absence of pressure. It is the confidence that comes from trusting your preparation so thoroughly that pressure does not shake you.

Vargas did not stumble into a hot streak. He built one through the work he put in when no one was watching. That investment is now paying off at the highest level of professional baseball.

The lesson for athletes at every level is clear: it is never too late for a breakout season. A [mental performance coach](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-coaching/) can help you develop the mindset and preparation habits that Vargas demonstrates.

## What Role Does Mindset Play in a Breakout Athletic Season?

A growth mindset fuels breakout seasons by keeping athletes focused on progress rather than results, even during tough stretches. Athletes with a results-only mindset tend to force outcomes during slumps, which leads to increased muscle tension, technical breakdown, and a divided focus. [Carol Dweck’s foundational research at Stanford University](https://www.mindsetworks.com/science/) showed that individuals with a growth mindset consistently achieve more over time than those with a fixed mindset, even when starting from the same ability level.

In practical terms, a growth mindset means you measure practice by the quality of reps rather than by the score. You treat a bad game as feedback rather than failure. You stay focused on what you can do today to get better rather than dwelling on what went wrong yesterday.

## How Do Trust and Preparation Work Together to Unlock Your Potential?

Trust in athletic performance is built through repetition. The more quality reps an athlete puts in, the more the nervous system internalizes the correct movement patterns. In competition, those patterns run without conscious interference, which is what coaches and athletes call competing on autopilot. [Preparation creates the evidence that trust needs to take root](https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/uasp20). Without it, trust is just wishful thinking.

This is why Vargas’ preparation habits are so central to his breakout story. Every quality rep in practice adds another layer of evidence that tells his brain: I have done this before, and I can do it again. When competitive pressure rises, that evidence base supports confident, free-flowing performance rather than hesitation.

If you want to build trust in your game, explore our [mental training programs for athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-training-programs/) at Peak Performance Sports.

## 4 Steps to Start Building Your Breakout Season Today

You do not need to be a professional athlete to use these principles. They apply at every level of competition.

Step 1: Commit to a Growth-Based Mindset. Measure success by progress, not results. Stay focused on learning, adjusting, and improving, even during slumps. This keeps your confidence and motivation steady when things get hard.

Step 2: Prepare With Purpose and Consistency. Do not just go through the motions. Train with intention. Fully commit to developing your physical skills and mental approach so you can rely on them in competition.

Step 3: Build Trust Through Repetition. Confidence comes from evidence. The more quality reps you put in, the easier it becomes to trust your mechanics and instincts when competitive pressure rises.

Step 4: Compete Freely in the Moment. Let go of overthinking and results-chasing. Trust your preparation and stay present while competing. Breakout performances happen when you are fully committed, not when you are playing it safe.

## Your Best Athletic Season May Still Be Ahead of You

Breakout seasons do not belong only to the most talented athletes. They belong to athletes who align their mindset, preparation, and trust to compete at their fullest potential.

Ildemaro Vargas is proof that it is never too late. Eighteen years into a professional career, he is having his best season ever, because of what he committed to in the quiet moments.

If you are ready to stop leaving performance on the table, [schedule your free session with Peak Performance Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) today and start building the mindset, preparation habits, and trust that drive a true breakout season.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the mental game in sports?

The mental game in sports refers to the psychological skills that influence an athlete’s performance. These include confidence, concentration, emotional control, motivation, and the ability to trust your abilities under pressure. Research in sports psychology consistently shows that mental game skills are as important as physical training for achieving peak athletic performance.

### How does a growth mindset lead to better athletic performance?

A growth mindset leads to better athletic performance by helping athletes stay motivated through adversity, treat failure as feedback, and focus on continuous improvement. [Carol Dweck’s research](https://psychology.stanford.edu/people/carol-s-dweck) shows that athletes with a growth mindset tend to work harder, adapt more effectively to challenges, and reach higher performance levels over time.

### What is athletic trust and how do you build it?

Athletic trust is the confidence that your trained skills will perform reliably in competition. It is built through quality repetitions in practice, consistent preparation, and a focus on process over results. When trust is high, athletes compete freely and instinctively rather than overthinking or hesitating in key moments.

### Can older athletes still have breakout seasons?

Yes. Ildemaro Vargas having the best season of his career at age 34 is a powerful example of this. Research in sport science suggests that mental skills like trust, composure, and focus can improve with experience. An athlete who commits to intentional mental and physical preparation can achieve breakthroughs at any age.

### How does working with a mental performance coach help athletes?

A mental performance coach helps athletes identify and address the mental barriers that limit their performance. This includes building confidence, developing focus routines, managing pressure, and building trust in their abilities. [Explore our mental training programs](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-training-programs/) to find the right fit for your goals.

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [4 Mental Strategies to Help You Beat the Best](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-mental-strategies-to-help-you-beat-the-best/)

**Published:** June 10, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![4 Mental Strategies to Help You Beat the Best](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/playoff-mindset.jpg)

## How Do You Win Against Better Athletes?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do You Win Against Better Athletes?](#How_Do_You_Win_Against_Better_Athletes)
- [What Happens When You Place Opponents on a Pedestal?](#What_Happens_When_You_Place_Opponents_on_a_Pedestal)
- [Does Self-Belief Actually Help You Win?](#Does_Self-Belief_Actually_Help_You_Win)
- [How Starodubtseva Stunned the No. 2 Player in the World](#How_Starodubtseva_Stunned_the_No_2_Player_in_the_World)
- [Why Rankings and Reputations Don’t Determine Who Wins](#Why_Rankings_and_Reputations_Dont_Determine_Who_Wins)
- [4 Mental Strategies to Help You Believe You Can Beat the Best](#4_Mental_Strategies_to_Help_You_Believe_You_Can_Beat_the_Best)
- [How to Build Genuine Confidence Before Competition](#How_to_Build_Genuine_Confidence_Before_Competition)
- [Conclusion](#Conclusion)
    - [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)
    - [Want to Sample Mental Coaching?](#Want_to_Sample_Mental_Coaching)

*Summary: Many athletes mentally lose before they even compete when facing a top-ranked opponent. But rankings, records, and reputations don’t determine who wins. What does? Self-belief rooted in preparation. This post breaks down the sports psychology behind competing with confidence against the best, what Yuliia Starodubtseva’s French Open upset shows us about mindset, and four strategies to help you believe you can win against anyone.*

Have you ever walked into a competition already knowing you were going to lose? That feeling is one of the most common performance **problems in sports psychology**. And the worst part? You haven’t even started yet.

When athletes face a **top-ranked opponent**, many mentally surrender before the first pitch, point, or play. They focus on everything that makes the other person seem unbeatable: their ranking, their record, their reputation. Before the competition starts, the outcome is already decided in their mind.

[Sports psychology research shows](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/1750984X.2023.2222376) a significant correlation (r = 0.30) between *self-confidence* and athletic performance. In other words, what you believe going in shapes what happens when you compete.

The good news? **Self-belief is a skill you can build.** And the 2026 French Open gave us one of the best real-world examples of what that belief looks like in action.

## What Happens When You Place Opponents on a Pedestal?

When you put an opponent on a pedestal, you shift your brain into protection mode rather than performance mode. You stop competing to win and start competing not to embarrass yourself. The result is cautious, hesitant play that guarantees a poor performance, regardless of your actual skill level.

It’s a natural response. You hear an opponent’s ranking, see their record, or remember their past titles, and your mind starts building a case for why they’re unbeatable. Every piece of data gets filtered through the question: “Can I really compete with this person?”

That question puts you in the wrong mindset before you’ve taken a single swing or step. [Research on psychological factors in elite sport](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12380335/) shows that when athletes are closely matched in skill and fitness, psychological factors become the decisive difference in outcomes. Putting an opponent on a pedestal hands them that psychological edge before the competition even starts.

The athletes who compete best **against top competition** respect the opponent’s ability. They don’t worship it. They recognize that every athlete, no matter how talented, has weaknesses, bad days, and vulnerabilities.

## Does Self-Belief Actually Help You Win?

Yes, and science backs it up. A [2025 systematic review and meta-analysis on self-efficacy in high-performance sports](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12352364/) found that self-efficacy (your belief in your ability to perform) is associated with better performance, with a Cohen’s d of 0.413. That’s a meaningful effect. It’s not just feel-good thinking. It’s a measurable performance variable.

When you believe you can compete at a high level, you take more risks, attack opportunities, and stay engaged when things get tough. When you don’t believe you can compete, you become tentative, hesitant, and focused on avoiding mistakes rather than executing your skills.

A [2025 intervention study across 512 athletes](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1701631/full) found significant increases in self-confidence following psychological skills training. This confirms what many mental coaches know: confidence can be developed.

If you’ve been struggling with [overcoming self-doubt in sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-overcome-self-doubt/), the first step is understanding that self-belief is buildable. And it starts before you step onto the field.

## How Starodubtseva Stunned the No. 2 Player in the World

At the 2026 French Open, Yuliia Starodubtseva pulled off one of the biggest upsets in recent tennis memory. She defeated second-seeded Elena Rybakina, 3-6, 6-1, 7-6 (10-4), in a dramatic three-set match.

Starodubtseva had faced six top-10 opponents before that day and never won. The odds were against her. But she walked into that match with a different mindset.

According to [CBS Sports](https://www.cbssports.com/tennis/news/2026-french-open-results-elena-rybakina-upset-yuliia-starodubtseva/), Rybakina finished with 71 unforced errors to just 23 winners, while Starodubtseva stayed composed and seized her opportunities. The numbers tell the story: Rybakina faltered under pressure while Starodubtseva competed freely.

After the match, Starodubtseva explained her mindset: “I feel like if you are trying to beat one of the best, you have to think that you can beat the best. I was trying to go into this match with this mindset, try not to give too much respect, even though she’s a great player.”

You can’t [stay confident when others doubt you](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-strategies-to-deal-with-doubters/) if you’re doubting yourself first. And you can’t compete freely if you’ve already decided the other person is unbeatable.

## Why Rankings and Reputations Don’t Determine Who Wins

Rankings predict probability, not outcomes. They tell you who has won in the past, not who will win today. Every competition is its own event, shaped by preparation, mindset, and how each athlete shows up on that particular day.

[A comprehensive meta-analysis on psychological factors in elite sport](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12380335/) found that at the elite level, where athletes are closely matched in physical ability, psychological factors become the primary differentiator. Rankings reflect past physical performance. They say nothing about who will compete with more focus, composure, and belief on any given day.

Every ranked opponent has weaknesses. Every top team has off days. Every dominant player can be rattled. History is full of upsets because the underdog believed before anyone else did.

When you let a ranking stop you before you even start, you’re giving up the one advantage you actually control: your mindset.

## 4 Mental Strategies to Help You Believe You Can Beat the Best

These four strategies are built on real sports psychology principles. They’re the same kind of work we do with athletes in [mental performance coaching](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coach/).

**1. Focus on Preparation, Not Reputation**

Your opponent’s ranking has nothing to do with how well-prepared you are. Direct your attention to the work you’ve put in: your training, your practice habits, your physical readiness. Trust that your preparation has equipped you to compete at this level.

**2. Treat Every Opponent as Beatable**

Every athlete has weaknesses. Every competitor has bad days. Every team has vulnerabilities. If you walk in looking for reasons why your opponent is unbeatable, you’ll find them. Walk in looking for opportunities to compete, and you’ll find those instead.

**3. Stay Focused on the Present Moment**

The biggest mistake athletes make against top competition is thinking too far ahead. They start worrying about the scoreboard before the first point, pitch, or play. Stay focused on the next shot, at-bat, or play. Execution is a present-moment skill. Fear and doubt live in the future.

**4. Expect Challenges and Keep Fighting**

Adversity is coming when you play against top competition. There will be moments when you fall behind, make mistakes, or feel the pressure mount. Mentally prepare for those moments before the competition begins. When you’ve planned for adversity, it won’t catch you off guard.

## How to Build Genuine Confidence Before Competition

There’s a difference between confidence and arrogance. Arrogance is telling yourself you’re better than you are. Confidence is trusting your preparation and knowing you’re capable of performing at your best.

Real [sports psychology for athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-for-athletes/) focuses on trust-based confidence: the kind that comes from consistent preparation, knowing your strengths, and understanding that your value isn’t determined by a single outcome.

Before competing against a top opponent, spend a few minutes reviewing your preparation. What have you worked on? What do you do well? What mental cues help you play your best? That pre-competition routine builds a mental foundation that holds up when the pressure rises.

A [2025 meta-analysis on pre-event self-efficacy](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10675036/) confirmed that athletes who enter competition with higher confidence in their ability to perform achieve better outcomes. This isn’t just about feeling good. It’s about performing at a higher level because you expect yourself to.

## Conclusion

Self-belief is not optional when you’re competing against the best. It’s one of the most powerful performance variables you have.

Rankings don’t decide who wins. You don’t have to beat someone’s reputation. You just have to outcompete the person in front of you on that day. When you prepare well, stay present, and trust yourself, you give yourself a legitimate shot at winning against anyone.

Starodubtseva didn’t walk onto that court hoping she could beat Rybakina. She walked on believing she could. That’s the difference.

If you’re ready to build that kind of mental game, our coaches at Peak Performance Sports are here to help. [Book a free mental coaching session](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) and start developing the self-belief you need to compete with confidence against anyone.

### Frequently Asked Questions

**How do I stop being intimidated by a higher-ranked opponent?**

Start by directing your attention away from what makes your opponent impressive and toward what makes you prepared. Focus on your training, your strengths, and your mental readiness. Remind yourself that every opponent is beatable on any given day, and that your preparation gives you a real chance to compete.

**Can self-belief actually change the outcome of a competition?**

Yes. A [2023 meta-analysis](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/1750984X.2023.2222376) found a significant positive correlation (r = 0.30) between self-confidence and athletic performance. Self-belief influences how you approach risk, respond to adversity, and execute your skills under pressure. It doesn’t guarantee a win, but it significantly improves your chances.

**What’s the difference between confidence and arrogance in sports?**

Confidence is trust in your preparation, skills, and ability to compete. Arrogance is overestimating your ability without the work to back it up. Confidence helps you compete freely and stay focused. Arrogance leads to complacency. The best athletes are confident because they’ve earned it.

**How do I build confidence when I’ve never beaten a top opponent before?**

Start with your preparation. Confidence grows from trust in your work, not your past results. Every training session and every mental rehearsal builds evidence that you’re ready. Focus on what you’ve done to prepare rather than what you haven’t yet achieved.

**What mental strategies do elite athletes use when facing top competition?**

Elite athletes focus on their own game rather than their opponent’s reputation. They stay present in each moment rather than worrying about outcomes. They expect adversity and mentally prepare for it beforehand. And they trust their preparation enough to compete freely and aggressively.

### Want to Sample Mental Coaching?

Sign up for a free introductory session with a mental coach at Peaksports:

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Sports Confidence

**Tags:** Beating Top Opponents

---

### [4 Tips for Climbing Out of a Performance Slump](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/4-tips-for-climbing-out-of-a-performance-slump/)

**Published:** June 20, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Train Like a Pro](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/pro-training.jpg)

## How Do You Break Out of a Slump?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do You Break Out of a Slump?](#How_Do_You_Break_Out_of_a_Slump)
- [Introduction](#Introduction)
- [What Is a Performance Slump in Sports?](#What_Is_a_Performance_Slump_in_Sports)
- [Why Do Athletes Stay Stuck in Slumps Longer Than They Should?](#Why_Do_Athletes_Stay_Stuck_in_Slumps_Longer_Than_They_Should)
- [Dan Mattingly’s Perspective: Evaluate Each Game Individually](#Dan_Mattinglys_Perspective_Evaluate_Each_Game_Individually)
- [How Does Self-Talk Affect Performance During a Slump?](#How_Does_Self-Talk_Affect_Performance_During_a_Slump)
- [4 Tips for Climbing Out of a Performance Slump](#4_Tips_for_Climbing_Out_of_a_Performance_Slump)
- [When Should You Seek Mental Performance Coaching for a Slump?](#When_Should_You_Seek_Mental_Performance_Coaching_for_a_Slump)
- [Conclusion](#Conclusion)
    - [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)

*Summary: A performance slump is not just about poor results. It is about how you think about those results. Research shows that up to 54% of athletes experience performance slumps, and most make them worse by evaluating the entire slump at once. The fastest way out is to evaluate each performance individually, focus on solutions, and shift your self-talk. This post gives you four specific strategies to break free.*

## Introduction

What if the fastest way out of a performance slump is to stop obsessing over the slump itself?

That idea is harder to apply than it sounds. When you are struggling, every competition feels like more evidence that something is deeply wrong. One bad performance turns into a string of bad performances. Confidence drops. Frustration rises. And before long, you start believing that this is who you are now.

The truth is, most athletes who struggle with **[sports psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-for-athletes/) during a slump** are not lacking in talent or work ethic. They are caught in a thinking trap. They are evaluating themselves based on the entire length of the slump, instead of focusing on what they can do better in the very next competition.

This thinking trap affects athletes at every level. Even professional athletes at the highest levels of sport deal with it. Understanding why slumps persist, and what you can do mentally to break through, can make the difference between a brief rough stretch and a months-long struggle.

## What Is a Performance Slump in Sports?

**A performance slump** is a sustained decline in athletic performance that falls below an athlete’s established baseline, typically lasting long enough to cause significant concern and psychological distress. It is not a bad game or a one-off struggle. It is a pattern that persists across multiple competitions and tends to feed on itself.

Research on **[performance slumps in sport](https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/5/165)** estimates that slumps impact up to 54% of athletes across all levels and sports types. That makes them one of the most universal challenges in competitive athletics. What makes slumps particularly difficult is that they are largely psychological in origin. Most performance slumps are not purely technical problems. They are mental problems that often create technical problems.

The cycle typically looks like this: a stretch of poor results creates doubt, doubt creates tension, tension disrupts mechanics, and disrupted mechanics produce more poor results. By the time an athlete recognizes the pattern, it has already reinforced itself multiple times.

## Why Do Athletes Stay Stuck in Slumps Longer Than They Should?

Athletes stay stuck in slumps longer than necessary because they evaluate their struggle as a single, overwhelming whole rather than as a series of individual performances. When you zoom out and judge yourself based on a large sample of bad results, the weight of the slump feels impossible to lift.

A [systematic review on slump psychology](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1469029222000048) found that athletes who recover quickly from slumps share a common trait: they are able to contain the cognitive reach of underperformance. In other words, they do not allow a bad competition to color their entire identity or predict every future performance. They evaluate each competition separately and return quickly to a solution mindset.

Athletes who stay stuck tend to do the opposite. They carry every bad performance into the next one. The [mental game questions athletes ask most](https://www.peaksports.com/top-mental-game-questions-athletes-ask/) during slumps often reveal this pattern: “Why can’t I do anything right?” “Am I getting worse?” “Will I ever break out of this?” These questions widen the slump’s reach and make recovery harder.

The answer is not to pretend the slump does not exist. It is to refuse to let it become your entire story.

## Dan Mattingly’s Perspective: Evaluate Each Game Individually

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola had a difficult first stretch of the 2026 MLB season. In ten starts, Nola carried a 6.04 ERA. In two consecutive outings, he allowed 10 runs over 8 and 2/3 innings. Only one quality start in his last seven appearances.

If Nola evaluated himself based on the full stretch of those ten starts, the weight of that sample would feel crushing. Phillies manager Dan Mattingly offered a different approach:

*“I kind of take them all individually instead of taking the larger sample. Obviously, the large sample is a little bit of a trend that you don’t like. But then you try to take each one individually. Is he getting better? Then, how do we help him? I know (pitching coach Caleb Cotham), and the guys are always working on what we can do differently, what we can do better.”*

This perspective applies at every level of sport. The large sample will always look bad during a slump. That is the nature of a slump. But within that large sample, there are individual performances to evaluate honestly, lessons to extract, and small improvements to build on.

Breaking the slump down into individual competitions gives you something actionable to work with. It also protects your confidence by keeping each performance in its proper context, separate from every other.

## How Does Self-Talk Affect Performance During a Slump?

Negative self-talk during a slump creates additional psychological pressure that makes poor performance more likely. Telling yourself “I’ve lost it” or “I’m terrible” does not reflect reality. It creates a mental environment that produces the very results you fear.

Research on [self-efficacy in high-performance sports](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12352364/) shows that confidence and belief in one’s own ability have a moderate but consistent positive association with performance. When self-efficacy drops during a slump, performance tends to drop with it. Rebuilding confidence is not just a feel-good exercise. It is a performance strategy.

A 2025 study involving 512 athletes across individual and team sports found that a structured four-week psychological intervention produced significant increases in self-confidence and marked reductions in competitive anxiety. The athletes who changed how they talked to themselves and thought about their performance recovered faster than those who relied on technical adjustments alone. If you are in a slump, the [mental game tips for athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-tips-for-athletes/) that make the biggest difference are often the simplest: replace “I’m struggling” with “I’m adjusting.” Replace “I can’t do anything right” with “I’m improving one thing at a time.” Small shifts in self-talk reduce the psychological weight of the slump and create space for real progress to happen.

## 4 Tips for Climbing Out of a Performance Slump

These four strategies work together. Use them in sequence after each competition to build momentum and shift your mindset.

**1. View Each Competition Individually**

Stop judging yourself based on the full length of the slump. Evaluate each competition on its own: What happened in this game? What did I do better? What can I improve for next time? This practice separates each performance from the weight of the larger pattern, which protects your confidence and keeps your focus forward-looking.

**2. Find Feedback and Apply It**

After each competition, ask yourself honest, solution-focused questions: Did I improve in any area? Did I compete with more discipline or focus? What is one thing I can work on before the next competition? Small improvements count during a slump, even when they do not show up in the statistics yet. [If you are stuck in a hitting slump](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/are-you-in-the-middle-of-a-hitting-slump/), identifying one mechanical or mental adjustment to focus on creates momentum and a sense of direction.

**3. Take Action**

Slumps do not end through waiting and hoping. They end through deliberate action. Pick one or two specific areas to improve, whether that is your pre-competition routine, your focus between plays, your self-talk after a mistake, or a single technical adjustment. Action creates forward momentum, and momentum breaks the cycle.

**4. Change Your Messaging**

The language you use during a slump shapes your experience of it. “I’m terrible” creates pressure. “I’m adjusting” creates possibility. “I’ve lost it” closes the door. “I’m figuring it out” keeps it open. Make a conscious effort to replace catastrophic self-talk with process-focused language. You do not have to feel confident to act like you are making progress. Acting like it often creates the feeling eventually.

## When Should You Seek Mental Performance Coaching for a Slump?

You should consider working with a mental performance coach when a slump persists despite honest effort, when it starts to affect your enjoyment of the sport, or when negative self-talk is driving your performance more than your preparation. [Baseball and softball mental performance coaching](https://www.peaksports.com/baseball-and-softball-psychology/) at Peak Performance Sports addresses the exact mental patterns that keep athletes stuck in slumps. Coaches work with athletes on self-efficacy, focus strategies, performance evaluation, and rebuilding confidence from the inside out. You do not have to wait until the slump becomes a crisis to ask for help.

Many athletes who seek mental performance coaching during a slump find that the breakthrough they had been chasing through technical adjustments was available all along through a mental shift.

## Conclusion

You do not climb out of a slump by obsessing over every bad performance in your history. You climb out by winning the next moment, evaluating each competition honestly and individually, adjusting your approach, and talking to yourself like a coach instead of a critic.

Dan Mattingly’s approach with Aaron Nola is a masterclass in slump management: take each game individually, ask what can be done better, and keep working without being swallowed by the larger pattern.

If you are ready to break out of a performance slump with professional support, [book a free session with a mental performance coach](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) at Peak Performance Sports. You are probably closer to your breakthrough than you realize.

### Frequently Asked Questions

**What causes a performance slump in sports?**

Performance slumps are often triggered by a combination of psychological and technical factors. [Research on slump psychology](https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/5/165) identifies common causes including perceived expectations for success, attributing poor performance to personal failings, mounting pressure, and a loss of process focus. Most slumps are maintained psychologically, meaning the mental response to poor performance keeps the cycle going even after the original cause has passed.

**How long do performance slumps typically last?**

There is no universal timeline. Slumps can last days, weeks, or months depending on how the athlete responds. Athletes who apply individual-game evaluation, maintain self-efficacy, and stay process-focused tend to break out faster. Athletes who evaluate the full slump as a whole, engage in negative self-talk, and lose confidence tend to stay stuck longer. The mental response matters as much as the technical response.

**Is a performance slump mental or physical?**

Most performance slumps begin with a combination of factors but persist primarily for psychological reasons. [A systematic review of slump research](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1469029222000048) found that most performance slumps are psychological in origin, psychological in their persistence, and require psychological intervention to resolve. Technical adjustments alone are rarely enough to fully break a slump.

**How can I stay confident during a performance slump?**

Focus on process-level improvements rather than results. Evaluate what you did better in each competition, even if the outcome was poor. Replace negative self-talk with adjustment-focused language. Set small, achievable goals for each practice session. [Self-efficacy research](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12352364/) confirms that maintaining belief in your ability, even during poor results, is a key factor in faster slump recovery.

**Can a mental performance coach help me get out of a slump?**

Yes. **Mental performance coaches** specialize in the exact thinking patterns that keep athletes stuck in slumps. They help you develop tools for honest performance evaluation, rebuild confidence without relying solely on results, manage self-talk, and restore your sense of control over your development. [Booking a free session](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) is a simple first step toward getting professional support.

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [Sports Psychology for Playoff Pressure: How to Stay Calm](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-psychology-for-playoff-pressure/)

**Published:** June 22, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Sports Psychology and Playoff Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/breakout-season.jpg)

## How Do You Cope with Playoff Pressure?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do You Cope with Playoff Pressure?](#How_Do_You_Cope_with_Playoff_Pressure)
- [Introduction](#Introduction)
- [What Causes Athletes to Choke Under Pressure?](#What_Causes_Athletes_to_Choke_Under_Pressure)
- [Why Trying Harder Backfires in the Playoffs](#Why_Trying_Harder_Backfires_in_the_Playoffs)
- [How Ole Miss Baseball Used a Keep-It-Simple Mindset](#How_Ole_Miss_Baseball_Used_a_Keep-It-Simple_Mindset)
- [How Do You Build a Clutch Mindset Before Big Games?](#How_Do_You_Build_a_Clutch_Mindset_Before_Big_Games)
- [What the Research Says About Performing Under Pressure](#What_the_Research_Says_About_Performing_Under_Pressure)
- [How Can a Mental Performance Coach Help With Playoff Pressure?](#How_Can_a_Mental_Performance_Coach_Help_With_Playoff_Pressure)
- [Conclusion](#Conclusion)
- [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)

*Summary: Playoff pressure doesn’t come from the game itself. It comes from how you interpret the moment. Sports psychology research shows athletes who simplify their approach and trust their preparation outperform those who try to do more. Ole Miss baseball’s 2026 postseason run proves the point. Keep your routine, trust your training, and let confidence carry you through big games.*

## Introduction

Have you ever watched a talented athlete completely change once the playoffs start? That shift is sports psychology at work, just not in a good way.

**Pressure** makes players think they need to do more. A pitcher tries to overpower hitters instead of locating his pitches. A hitter swings for the fences instead of making solid contact. One [study found that 77% of athletes choked at least once in the past year](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1469029224000748), and on average, they choked more than 18 times.

The good news is that choking isn’t a personality flaw. It’s a mental skill you can train. Ole Miss baseball’s 2026 postseason run shows exactly what it looks like when a team gets this right, and what happens when the pressure still wins anyway.

## What Causes Athletes to Choke Under Pressure?

Choking happens when an athlete’s skill level drops below their normal baseline because they’re overthinking actions that are usually automatic. Researchers point to two main causes: distraction (your attention shifts to outcomes instead of execution) and over-control (you consciously try to manage movements your body already knows how to do on its own).

[Recent research on attribution training](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1435374/full) found that athletes who learned to reframe a poor performance as situational, not a reflection of their ability, recovered their confidence faster after choking.

This matters because how you explain a bad moment to yourself decides whether it becomes a one-time event or a pattern. Tell yourself “I’m not built for big games” and you train your brain to believe it. Tell yourself “that was one pitch, one at-bat, one play” and you keep the door open for your next chance.

This is one reason we built our [baseball mental performance coaching](https://www.peaksports.com/baseball-and-softball-psychology/) program around teaching athletes to separate a single play from their overall ability.

## Why Trying Harder Backfires in the Playoffs

When the stakes go up, most athletes assume they need to try harder. In reality, trying harder is usually the problem, not the solution.

A pitcher who tries to overpower hitters abandons the location and pitch-mixing that got him to the playoffs in the first place. A hitter who tries to “be the hero” swings for the fences instead of working a quality at-bat. Both players are doing more, and both are doing it worse.

[Adler University’s research on performing under pressure](https://www.adler.edu/news/performing-under-pressure-for-athletes-it-depends-on-three-key-things/) found that putting a competition into perspective, reminding yourself it’s still just a game, lowers anxiety and helps athletes return to their normal process.

You can [build your playoff mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-your-playoff-mindset/) the same way you build any other skill: by practicing it before you need it, not during the biggest game of the year.

## How Ole Miss Baseball Used a Keep-It-Simple Mindset

**In 2022**, Ole Miss won the College World Series. By 2026, the Rebels were back in Omaha chasing a second national title, with starting pitcher Hunter Elliott, the only player left from that 2022 championship roster, leaning on a simple message for his teammates.

**ELLIOTT**: *“Sometimes people come here and aren’t the same because they try to play a little different, it’s a bigger stage or whatever. But no, it’s doing what we’ve done all year, that’s why we’re here. So, we’re good enough to have success here.”*

That’s the mindset every successful playoff performer eventually finds. You don’t need to become a different player. You need to become a more committed version of the player you’ve already been all season.

Ole Miss didn’t go on to win the 2026 title. [The Rebels were eliminated after a loss to North Carolina and a follow-up elimination-game loss to Troy](https://www.ncaa.com/news/baseball/article/2026-06-20/2026-ncaa-baseball-tournament-bracket-schedule-scores-mens-college-world-series). That outcome doesn’t undo Elliott’s point. Mental toughness improves your odds of executing under pressure. It doesn’t guarantee a trophy. The process is still the right one to repeat, game after game, season after season.

## How Do You Build a Clutch Mindset Before Big Games?

A clutch mindset is built through preparation, not bravado. Athletes who perform well in pressure moments rely on consistent pre-performance routines, visualization, and a focus on process over outcome, all of which reduce the uncertainty that pressure feeds on.

[Research on clutch performance](https://sirc.ca/articles/the-psychology-of-clutch-performance-how-athletes-can-thrive-under-pressure/) confirms that clutch ability is trainable, not some rare gift a handful of athletes are born with. The athletes who deliver when it matters most aren’t fearless. They’re prepared, self-aware, and mentally disciplined, qualities anyone can build with the right practice.

[A pre-performance routine also creates familiarity](https://www.innerdrive.co.uk/blog/clutch-performance-in-sport/) under pressure. Repeating the same actions before every pitch or at-bat signals to your brain that this moment is just like the thousands of reps you’ve already handled. That’s why we coach athletes to [develop a clutch mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-develop-a-clutch-mindset/) months before the postseason, not the week of.

## What the Research Says About Performing Under Pressure

**Sports psychologists** have studied pressure for decades, and the data keeps pointing in the same direction: pressure itself isn’t the enemy, your interpretation of it is.

[One 2025 study tracked 512 athletes through a four-week psychological skills program](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1701631/full) and found measurable drops in competition anxiety and increases in motivation. That’s a meaningful sample size, and it shows pressure management responds to structured training the same way a fastball or a jump shot does.

[Other research on pre-competition anxiety](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12513990/) found that athletes with stronger coping skills and resilience consistently handled high-stakes moments better than peers with similar talent but weaker mental preparation. Pressure is self-induced by [the expectations you carry into competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pressure-is-self-induced-by-expectations/), which means it’s also something you can manage from the inside out.

## How Can a Mental Performance Coach Help With Playoff Pressure?

A mental performance coach helps athletes build the specific mental skills, like routine-building, self-talk, and reframing, that reduce pressure’s grip during high-stakes competition. Coaches work with athletes year-round so those skills are already automatic by the time the playoffs arrive.

This is exactly the work we do with athletes and coaches inside our [mental game coach certification](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-certification/) program and in one-on-one coaching. We don’t wait until the postseason to start. We build the foundation early, so when an athlete steps into a playoff atmosphere, their mental game already matches their physical preparation.

If you’ve watched your athlete (or yourself) tense up when the stakes rise, that’s not a one-time fix. It’s a skill gap, and skill gaps close with the right coaching.

## Conclusion

Playoff pressure isn’t about the moment. It’s about what you believe the moment requires of you. Athletes who thrive don’t do more, they execute the same process that got them there. Trust what brought you success. Keep your routine. Separate one pitch, one at-bat, or one play from your overall ability.

Ole Miss’s 2026 run proves that mental toughness doesn’t guarantee a championship, but it does give you the best chance to perform like yourself when it matters most. That’s the whole goal.

If you or your athlete struggles to perform under pressure, you don’t have to figure it out alone. [Book a free session with one of our mental performance coaches](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) and start building the mental game that holds up in the biggest moments.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**What is choking under pressure in sports?**

Choking is a sudden drop in performance below an athlete’s normal skill level, usually caused by overthinking actions that are normally automatic. [Research shows 77% of athletes experienced it at least once in the past year](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1469029224000748), so it’s common, not a character flaw.

**Why do athletes perform worse in big games?**

Big games raise the perceived importance of every play, which increases self-induced pressure. Athletes who try to “do more” instead of trusting their normal process often see their performance decline rather than improve.

**How can I stay calm in playoff games?**

Build a consistent pre-performance routine, focus on the present play instead of the outcome, and remind yourself that a playoff game is still just a game. These habits reduce uncertainty, which is what drives pressure in the first place.

**Does experience reduce pressure in the playoffs?**

Experience helps, but it’s not the deciding factor. Mental skills training, like reframing setbacks and building routines, has been shown to lower competition anxiety regardless of how many playoff games an athlete has played.

**What’s the difference between confidence and overconfidence in playoffs?**

Confidence is trust in your prepared process. Overconfidence is expecting a result without respecting the work required to get there. Confident athletes still execute their fundamentals; overconfident athletes skip them.

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** athlete performance, sports psychology for playoff pressure

---

### [How Top Teams Build Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-performance-coach/)

**Published:** June 25, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Performing Fearlessly](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/soccer-performing-fearlessly.jpg)

## How do You Build Stable Confidence?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do You Build Stable Confidence?](#How_do_You_Build_Stable_Confidence)
- [Introduction](#Introduction)
- [What Makes a Team Play With Unshakeable Confidence?](#What_Makes_a_Team_Play_With_Unshakeable_Confidence)
- [Why Fear of Losing Sabotages Performance](#Why_Fear_of_Losing_Sabotages_Performance)
- [How Did the USMNT Build Belief Before the World Cup?](#How_Did_the_USMNT_Build_Belief_Before_the_World_Cup)
- [What the Research Says About Team Confidence and Winning](#What_the_Research_Says_About_Team_Confidence_and_Winning)
- [How Can Athletes Build Self-Belief Like Elite Players?](#How_Can_Athletes_Build_Self-Belief_Like_Elite_Players)
- [What’s the Difference Between Confidence and Arrogance?](#Whats_the_Difference_Between_Confidence_and_Arrogance)
- [Conclusion](#Conclusion)
- [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)

*Summary: Confidence in big games comes from belief, not talent. A mental performance coach builds that belief through preparation and by reframing fear into opportunity. The USMNT’s dominant World Cup-opener win over Paraguay shows what a team looks like when belief outweighs doubt. The same mindset shift works for any athlete or team chasing a big result.*

## Introduction

Have you ever wondered why some teams play fearless in the biggest matches while others look overwhelmed before kickoff? A mental performance coach will tell you it has almost nothing to do with talent.

Pressure, expectations, and the size of the moment can either build belief or create doubt. Teams that embrace the challenge attack from the opening whistle. Teams that fear losing play tentatively and focus more on avoiding mistakes than creating chances.

**The U.S. Men’s National Team** gave us a clean example of the first kind of team. In their **2026 World Cup** opener, [the USMNT beat Paraguay 4-1](https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49053328/was-fifa-world-cup-win-paraguay-best-usmnt-history), the largest margin of victory in the program’s World Cup history. That result wasn’t an accident. It was belief, built on purpose.

## What Makes a Team Play With Unshakeable Confidence?

Unshakeable confidence comes from a team’s collective belief in its preparation, not from individual talent or technical skill. Teams with high belief attack from the opening whistle, take risks, and play with conviction, while teams gripped by doubt hesitate and play not to lose.

[Research on elite footballers competing at the highest level](https://theconversation.com/how-messi-mbappe-and-haaland-use-their-brains-as-well-as-feet-to-gain-a-psychological-edge-at-the-world-cup-283672) shows that even the most talented players rely on mental skills, not just technical ones, to perform under pressure. Belief is something every team can build, no matter how the roster’s talent stacks up against an opponent.

Think about two teams with similar skill levels walking into the same big match. One team talks about what could go wrong. The other team talks about what they’ve already proven they can do. [The psychological burden facing elite footballers at major tournaments](https://www.glos.ac.uk/content/pressure-the-psychological-burden-of-elite-footballers-at-2026-world-cup/) is real, and it weighs on both teams equally. The difference is which team lets that pressure shrink them and which team uses it as fuel.

That’s not a small distinction. Coaches who only focus on tactics and conditioning are leaving half the preparation on the table. The mental side of the game decides which team’s preparation actually shows up when the whistle blows.

## Why Fear of Losing Sabotages Performance

Teams that “see” themselves losing before kickoff aren’t being honest about their chances. They’re playing out a fear-based script. That doubt throws off rhythm and decision-making early in a match.

Players caught in a fear-of-failure mindset hesitate, overthink decisions, and focus on avoiding mistakes instead of creating opportunities. Research distinguishes this prevention orientation from a gain orientation, where the drive to win fuels persistence and resilience instead of caution. The more an athlete fears failure, [the more likely they are to actually fail](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12500422/), which makes this mindset worth catching early.

You can read more about [why fear of failure leads to tentative play](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-fear-of-failure-leads-to-tentative-play/) in one of our deeper breakdowns on this exact pattern.

## How Did the USMNT Build Belief Before the World Cup?

The **USMNT** built belief around head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s repeated message: “Why not us?” That question forces players to challenge assumptions about who deserves to win and replace them with a focus on what’s possible.

**Striker Folarin Balogun**, who scored twice in the Paraguay win, credited that mindset directly.

**BALOGUN**: *“Poch has said many times, ‘Why not us?’ We have to believe. You can’t do anything if you don’t believe in yourself.”*

From the opening whistle, the [Americans played confidently, aggressively, and with conviction](https://www.mlssoccer.com/competitions/fifa-world-cup/news/mauricio-pochettino-usmnt-make-history-in-world-cup-group-stage), controlling the match instead of reacting to it. That’s what belief looks like when it shows up on the field instead of staying in a locker room speech.

Notice what Pochettino’s message actually does. It doesn’t promise a win. It removes the mental excuse for playing small. Once a team stops asking “what if we lose,” every player on the field gets permission to take the shot, make the run, and play with the aggression that talent alone can’t create. That shift in permission is often the real difference between a team that competes and a team that wins.

## What the Research Says About Team Confidence and Winning

Team confidence isn’t just a feel-good idea. It’s measurable, and it predicts results.

A [systematic review of collective efficacy in soccer teams](https://prc.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s41155-021-00183-y) found that a team’s shared belief in its ability to execute predicted as much as 59% of the variance in objective season performance. That’s a massive share of the outcome explained by belief alone, not raw talent.

Confidence also shifts within a single match. Teams that maintain belief at halftime, even after a rough first half, consistently perform better in the second half than teams whose confidence collapses. This is part of why we built our [team mental training programs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-teams/) around in-game resilience, not just pregame hype.

## How Can Athletes Build Self-Belief Like Elite Players?

Athletes build self-belief the same way elite teams do: by treating preparation as evidence, not just routine. Each completed training session becomes proof you’re ready, which shifts your internal question from “what if we lose?” to “why not us?”

[Self-efficacy research](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12352364/) backs this up. Athletes with higher self-efficacy put in more effort, persist longer, and perform better under the exact conditions that make less-confident athletes fold. Confidence isn’t a personality trait you either have or don’t. It’s [built and kept stable](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/keeping-confidence-is-half-the-battle-for-athletes/) through consistent reps and honest self-talk.

## What’s the Difference Between Confidence and Arrogance?

Confidence is trust in your preparation. Arrogance is an expectation of success without respect for the work required to earn it. Confident teams still scout opponents, stick to their game plan, and adjust when needed; arrogant teams assume talent alone will carry them.

This distinction matters because coaches sometimes hesitate to build belief in their athletes, worried it will tip into overconfidence. In practice, the two rarely overlap when belief is tied to preparation. [Mental toughness and self-confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-self-confidence-in-sports/) grow together, and both stay grounded in the work an athlete has actually put in.

A simple test helps separate the two. Ask an athlete or a team to explain why they believe they’ll succeed. If the answer points to specific training, film study, or past results, that’s confidence. If the answer is some version of “we’re just better,” that’s arrogance waiting to get exposed by the first tough opponent.

## Conclusion

Confidence in big matches doesn’t come from talent alone, and it doesn’t come from luck. It comes from a deliberate belief built on preparation, the kind Pochettino’s “Why not us?” mindset gave the USMNT before their record win over Paraguay.

The lesson applies whether you coach a youth team or compete on the biggest stage in the world: belief is trainable, fear of losing is beatable, and the team that plays without hesitation usually has the edge.

If your team or your athlete plays tight in big moments, that’s a mental skill gap, not a talent problem. [Book a free session with one of our mental performance coaches](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) and start building belief that holds up under real pressure.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**What is team confidence in sports?**

Team confidence, also called collective efficacy, is a team’s shared belief in its ability to execute and succeed. [Research shows it can predict a large share of a team’s season performance](https://prc.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s41155-021-00183-y), independent of individual talent.

**Why do some teams fold under pressure?**

Teams fold when fear of losing replaces belief in preparation, causing players to hesitate and focus on avoiding mistakes instead of creating chances. This fear-based mindset disrupts rhythm and decision-making early in competition.

**What does “playing fearless” mean in sports psychology?**

Playing fearless means competing based on trust in preparation rather than worry about the outcome. Fearless teams attack from the start, take calculated risks, and stay aggressive even when the moment is significant.

**Can confidence be coached?**

Yes. Confidence responds to structured coaching the same way physical skills do, through routines, reframing techniques, and consistent reinforcement of preparation as evidence of readiness.

**How did the USMNT perform in their 2026 World Cup opener?**

The USMNT defeated Paraguay 4-1, [the largest margin of victory in U.S. World Cup history](https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49053328/was-fifa-world-cup-win-paraguay-best-usmnt-history), led by two goals from striker Folarin Balogun.

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Performance Coach, team confidence

---

### [Why Confidence Wins Away Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-confidence-wins-away-games/)

**Published:** June 23, 2026
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Hockey Psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Hockey.jpg)

## How Do You Play with Confidence on the Road?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do You Play with Confidence on the Road?](#How_Do_You_Play_with_Confidence_on_the_Road)
- [Introduction](#Introduction)
- [What’s the Difference Between Comfort and Confidence?](#Whats_the_Difference_Between_Comfort_and_Confidence)
- [Why Athletes Mistake Discomfort for Low Confidence](#Why_Athletes_Mistake_Discomfort_for_Low_Confidence)
- [Does Home Ice Actually Guarantee an Advantage?](#Does_Home_Ice_Actually_Guarantee_an_Advantage)
- [What the Research Says About Confidence and Performance](#What_the_Research_Says_About_Confidence_and_Performance)
- [How Can Athletes Build Confidence That Travels With Them?](#How_Can_Athletes_Build_Confidence_That_Travels_With_Them)
- [How Can a Sport Psychologist Help With Travel Anxiety or Road Games?](#How_Can_a_Sport_Psychologist_Help_With_Travel_Anxiety_or_Road_Games)
- [Conclusion](#Conclusion)
- [Frequently Asked Questions](#Frequently_Asked_Questions)

Summary: *Athletes often think they’re **less confident on the road,** but a sport psychologist would tell you that’s usually a comfort problem, not a confidence problem. True confidence is built on preparation and travels with you anywhere you compete. The **2026 Stanley Cup Final**, decided by a road shutout, is proof that prepared confidence beats home comfort.*

## Introduction

Are you less confident in away competitions than you are at home? Mental performance coaches hear this question constantly, and the answer usually surprises people.

It’s more comfortable to compete where you train. You sleep in your own bed, eat your usual pre-game meal, and play in front of fans cheering for you instead of against you. Too many athletes confuse that comfort with confidence. They assume they’re less capable on the road when they’re really just less at ease.

The **2026 Stanley Cup Final** settled this argument for good. [The Carolina Hurricanes won the Cup by shutting out the Vegas Golden Knights 3-0 in Game 6](https://www.nhl.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-vegas-golden-knights-stanley-cup-final-game-6-recap-june-14-2026), on Vegas’s own ice. Comfort stayed in Vegas. Confidence walked in from out of town.

## What’s the Difference Between Comfort and Confidence?

Comfort is the feeling of ease that comes from familiar surroundings and routines, while confidence is your belief in your ability to perform well regardless of the circumstances. Comfort depends on your environment; real confidence is built on preparation and travels with you anywhere you compete.

Home games usually provide comfort because the travel, sleep schedule, and crowd noise all favor you. None of that is the same thing as being mentally ready to execute your skills, which is why some of the most comfortable teams still lose at home.

## Why Athletes Mistake Discomfort for Low Confidence

It’s an easy mistake to make. You feel off in an unfamiliar arena, so you assume something is wrong with your game. In reality, what changed is your environment, not your ability.

[Research on home advantage](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/227654981_The_Home_Field_Advantage_in_Athletics_A_Meta-Analysis) shows home teams have historically won a meaningful share of contests across sports, driven by crowd support, travel fatigue, and familiarity rather than a talent gap. But that advantage has been shrinking. [PFF’s data on NFL home performance](https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-home-field-advantage-pff-data) found home teams posted a better overall grade than their opponents in barely 53% of games in 2024, which is close to a coin flip.

That shrinking gap tells you something important: home comfort matters less than most athletes assume, and it can be replaced by preparation.

Think about it this way. If home comfort were the deciding factor, the same teams and athletes would win at home every single time. They don’t. Athletes who lose at home despite every comfort advantage prove that comfort was never the variable that mattered most. The variable that mattered was whether they showed up mentally ready to execute.

## Does Home Ice Actually Guarantee an Advantage?

No. Home ice provides comfort, not a guarantee. [A 100-year study of NHL playoff overtime games](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1469029218306721) found that location factors shift psychological and physiological states, but they don’t override preparation when a series is on the line.

The **2026 Stanley Cup Final** proved this in the most direct way possible. The Vegas Golden Knights entered Game 6 with home ice at T-Mobile Arena. The Carolina Hurricanes won anyway, [shutting out Vegas 3-0 to clinch the franchise’s second championship](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-2026-stanley-cup-vegas-golden-knights/). Carolina’s confidence traveled. Vegas’s comfort didn’t translate into the win.

That’s not a knock on Vegas. It’s proof that comfort and confidence are two different resources, and only one of them holds up when everything is on the line.

This pattern shows up below the professional level, too. Youth and high school athletes often point to a road loss as evidence they’re “not as good” away from home. The data says otherwise. The athletes and teams who close out big series on the road usually aren’t more talented than their opponents. They’ve simply learned to keep their preparation consistent no matter which locker room they’re sitting in before the game.

## What the Research Says About Confidence and Performance

The link between self-confidence and performance is well established, and it’s stronger than most casual sports fans realize.

A [systematic review and meta-analysis](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9180271/) found a consistent, moderate positive relationship between self-confidence and sport performance, with the strongest effects showing up in individual sports where self-reliance matters most. [Broader research on sports psychology and performance](https://knowablemagazine.org/content/article/mind/2024/sports-psychology-research-athletic-performance) reinforces that confidence built through preparation, not circumstance, is what consistently predicts better outcomes.

None of this research credits home comfort as a performance driver. It all points back to preparation.

## How Can Athletes Build Confidence That Travels With Them?

Athletes build confidence that travels by treating their preparation, not their environment, as the source of their belief. That means relying on the same routines, visualization, and self-talk on the road that you use at home, so your mental approach never depends on where you’re standing.

Vegas defenseman Shea Theodore described this mindset heading into the Final’s tightest stretch.

**THEODORE**: *“We have a lot of guys that have gone on some long playoff runs. We’ve had some tough series. We’ve gone into some really tough building to play. We’re looking forward to getting back at it.”*

That’s the right mindset, and it’s worth noting Theodore’s words were true even though the series didn’t end in Vegas’s favor. Confidence built on past experience gives you the best chance to perform, win or lose. It’s [stable confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-have-stable-confidence/), not a guarantee, and that’s an important distinction for any athlete chasing a result they can’t fully control.

## How Can a Sport Psychologist Help With Travel Anxiety or Road Games?

A sport psychologist helps athletes separate the discomfort of a new environment from their actual readiness to compete, then builds routines that stay consistent no matter where the competition happens. That consistency is what lets confidence travel.

This is core to the coaching we do, including through [virtual mental coaching sessions](https://www.peaksports.com/online-sports-psychology-virtual-sessions-for-athletes/) that let athletes train their mental game from anywhere, home rink or visiting locker room included. We also focus on [the defining moments that shape an athlete’s confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/defining-moments-that-can-affect-athletes-confidence/), so a tough road loss becomes a data point, not a verdict on ability.

## Conclusion

Comfort and confidence are not the same thing, and mixing them up costs athletes performance they’re fully capable of delivering. Comfort depends on your environment. Confidence depends on your preparation, and preparation travels.

The **2026 Stanley Cup Final** made that lesson impossible to ignore. Carolina’s road confidence outlasted Vegas’s home comfort when the championship was on the line. That’s the standard every athlete should aim for: a mental game that performs the same in a road arena as it does at home.

If you or your athlete plays tighter away from home, [book a free session with one of our mental performance coaches](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) and start building the kind of confidence that holds up anywhere you compete.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**What’s the difference between comfort and confidence in sports?**

Comfort comes from familiar surroundings and routines, while confidence is your belief in your ability to perform regardless of where you are. Comfort is tied to environment; confidence is tied to preparation, which is why confidence travels and comfort doesn’t.

**Do teams really perform better at home?**

Historically yes, but the gap is shrinking. [PFF’s 2024 data found home teams only outgraded opponents in 53% of games](https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-home-field-advantage-pff-data), showing home advantage matters less than most fans assume.

**How do I build confidence for away games?**

Keep the same pre-game routines, visualization, and self-talk you use at home, since consistency is what makes confidence portable. Treat your preparation, not your environment, as the source of your belief.

**What happened in the 2026 Stanley Cup Final?**

The Carolina Hurricanes won the series 4 games to 2, clinching the title with [a 3-0 shutout of the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 6, played at Vegas’s own arena](https://www.nhl.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-vegas-golden-knights-stanley-cup-final-game-6-recap-june-14-2026).

**Can a mental coach help with road-game nerves?**

Yes. A mental performance coach helps athletes separate discomfort in a new environment from their actual readiness, then builds consistent routines that keep confidence stable no matter where they compete.

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Sports Confidence

**Tags:** Self-Confidence and Sports

---

### [Managing Emotions for Athletes ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-emotions-for-athletes/)

**Published:** June 6, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/managing-emotions.jpg)

## How to Control Your Emotions as an Athlete

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Control Your Emotions as an Athlete](#How_to_Control_Your_Emotions_as_an_Athlete)
    - [There are six facts about competitive emotions:](#There_are_six_facts_about_competitive_emotions)
    - [After the game, Clark commented on her outburst late in the game. ](#After_the_game_Clark_commented_on_her_outburst_late_in_the_game)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

How do emotions personally affect your competitive performance? Have there been competitions where a bad officiating call mentally knocked you off your game?

### There are six facts about competitive emotions:

1. All athletes are emotional beings
2. Emotions vary in intensity
3. Emotions alter your physiology
4. Emotions affect you mentally
5. Emotions impact your actions and performance
6. Emotions are mostly within your control.

Let me further explain… All athletes experience a wide range of emotions, more so than all other living things. Learning how to **manage emotions** is key for success as an athlete

When competing, you will experience many emotions, such as anger, calmness, happiness, sadness, disappointment, pride, etc. Emotions exist along a continuum.

For example, anger can vary in intensity. Take, for instance, a golfer who misses a 3-foot putt. At one end of the spectrum, that golfer may feel slightly annoyed. On the other end of the spectrum, that golfer may completely flip out.

Emotions profoundly influence physiology, such as breathing, heart rate, muscle tension, blood pressure, etc. When you react negatively to a mistake in competition, your heart will begin pounding, breathing will become shallow, muscles will tighten, and posture will slump.

Emotions affect your mind. When you are frustrated due to a mistake in a close game, you will have difficulty focusing, have unproductive or negative thoughts, feel increased pressure, and become less confident.

Emotions impact your level of performance in competitions. When you are overwhelmed by intense, unproductive emotions, your reactions become slower, your mechanics and technique less fluid, and your decision-making abilities become compromised.

In addition, you may feel less energized and prone to making more mistakes.

Competitive emotions are mostly within your control. During a competition, you may experience a bad or unfair officiating call. However, how you respond to that circumstance and how you deal with your emotions is within your control.

For example, a bad call can cause you to verbally lash out at the official, which will compound the problem. Conversely, you can choose to take several deep breaths to calm yourself, re-focus your attention, and regain your composure.

Since you cannot prevent challenging circumstances from happening, learning how to **manage your emotions** is crucial for dealing with mistakes and adverse circumstances and performing at your peak.

Early in the 2024 WNBA season, the Indiana Fever suffered a loss to the Connecticut Sun after Indiana lost their composure late in the game.

With Indiana clinging to a 76-75 lead with 3:37 to play, Fever rookie Caitlin Clark turned the ball over and drew her fifth foul when she attempted to regain possession of the ball.

In addition, Clark was called for a technical when she shouted at the referees in frustration. From that point, the Sun took control of the game and beat Indiana 88-84.

### After the game, Clark commented on her outburst late in the game. 

**CLARK**: “Just the technical foul, can’t get that. A little frustration of how the game was reffed. But it is what it is. That’s out of your control. I thought our team put ourselves in position to make some plays to try and win down the stretch, and the Sun always came up with big plays.”

To manage intense emotions, you must first understand what you can and cannot control. For example, you cannot control the officiating, but you can control your response to officiating calls.

Once you know what you can control, you can develop strategies to manage your emotions effectively so you can focus on competing at your peak.

Emotions and focus go hand in hand. When you focus on what you can control, you will better **manage your emotions.**

Try brainstorming aspects of competition that you can and cannot control. This exercise will help you keep your perspective when you experience challenging competition situations.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Your Emotions Affect Your Team’s Mood](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-your-emotions-affect-your-teams-mood/)
- [Managing Your Emotions When Adversity Hits](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-your-emotions-when-adversity-hits/)
- [How Athletes Can Control Emotions – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-control-emotions/)

---

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Emotional Control, Emotional Control for Young Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [When Parents Harp on Their Athletes’ Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-parents-harp-on-their-athletes-mistakes/)

**Published:** May 30, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this video, sport parents will learn how to be a supportive parent versus a distracting one. Harping on your athletes mistakes after a game can cause your athletes to make even more mistakes knowing they have a dreaded car ride home.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [**Sports Parents and The Problems with Focusing On Kids’ Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-parents-and-the-problems-with-focusing-on-kids-mistakes/)
- [**How to Benefit From Mistakes in Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-benefit-from-mistakes-in-competition/)
- [**How to Refocus After Making Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[LEARN MORE](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Coping with Mistakes, Fear Of Making Mistakes, Mistakes in Sports

---

### [Why Sports Parents Should Avoid Harping on Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-sports-parents-should-avoid-harping-on-mistakes/)

**Published:** May 30, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Dr. Cohn and Georgia Miller, CMPC discuss the challenges sports parents face with young athletes and how to make sports a better experience. Learn how to spot mental game challenges in athletes, what to say before and after games, and how to improve communication with young athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [How to Stay Composed When You Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)
- [How to Move on After Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-move-on-after-mistakes/)
- [How to Cope With Mistakes Like This Pro](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-cope-with-mistakes-like-this-pro/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[LEARN MORE](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Fear Of Making Mistakes, Mistakes in Sports

---

### [How Athletes Can Embrace Feeling Nervous](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-embrace-feeling-nervous/)

**Published:** May 30, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Athletes Can Embrace Feeling Nervous](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/embrace-nerves.jpg)

## Handling Nerves as an Athlete

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Handling Nerves as an Athlete](#Handling_Nerves_as_an_Athlete)
    - [Physical symptoms include: ](#Physical_symptoms_include)
    - [Mental symptoms include: ](#Mental_symptoms_include)
    - [Emotional symptoms include:](#Emotional_symptoms_include)
    - [Examine how nervousness and anxiety have impacted past performances.](#Examine_how_nervousness_and_anxiety_have_impacted_past_performances)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

What is the difference between nervousness and anxiety?

Anxiety knocks many athletes off their game. For these athletes, anxiety starts with unchecked nervousness and slowly builds, leading up to a competition and into the warm-up.

By the time the game begins, they feel overwhelmed and out of control. An athlete can prevent anxiety by regulating their nervousness before it builds to performance-declining proportions, by **embracing feelings of nerves**.

Athletes experience anxiety on three levels.

Physically – Physical symptoms alter an athlete’s physiology and affect optimal mechanics.

### Physical symptoms include: 

- Shallow Breathing
- Tightness in Chest
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Shakiness
- Heart Pounding
- Low Energy
- Muscle Tightness
- Sweatiness

Mentally — Mental symptoms not only affect an athlete’s focus but also impact an athlete’s physiology.

### Mental symptoms include: 

- Fear of Losing or Making Mistakes
- Feeling Overwhelmed
- Trouble Focusing
- Worst-Case Scenario Thinking/ Negative Thinking
- Inability to Remember Game Strategy
- Reduced Confidence

Emotionally – Anxiety affects an athlete’s ability to stay composed and poise under pressure.

### Emotional symptoms include:

- Agitation
- Frustration
- Anger
- Annoyance
- Hyperactivity
- Irritability
- Moodiness

Many athletes mistakenly believe being nervous and being anxious are the same. However, there are four significant differences between nervousness and anxiety.

1. Nervousness is experienced as jitteriness or excitement, while anxiety is associated with fear and excessive worry.
2. Nervousness is a mild feeling and helps sharpen an athlete’s focus. Anxiety is often intense and overwhelming and interferes with an athlete’s ability to focus.
3. Nervousness slightly subsides as the competition starts while anxiety usually lasts throughout a competition.
4. Nervousness can enhance performance. Anxiety hinders an athlete’s ability to perform at their peak. Many elite athletes use nervousness to their advantage.

Sha’Carri Richardson, who is preparing for the 2024 Olympics, won the Women’s 100m at the 2024 Prefontaine Classic in a time of 10.83.

Richardson’s time was a tenth of a second better than second place (St. Lucia’s Julien Alfred) and nearly a half a second better than rival Elaine Thompson-Herah, the five-time Olympic champ and reigning 100m gold medalist.

Richardson admitted she was nervous but viewed her nerves as a positive, she **embraced the feelings of nerves**.

**RICHARDSON**: “As my coach says, use that nervousness as motivation.”

Richardson was able to use her nervousness to her advantage because she paid attention to her mental game and competitive mindset.

**RICHARDSON**: “I feel like my performance reflects my training as well as my mindset. This year’s been humbling and I just understand no matter what’s going on to always stay focused on the mission at hand.”

To use nervousness to your advantage, you need to accept that nervousness is beneficial and essential for peak performance, and **embrace the feeling of nerves**.

In addition, you need to learn to regulate the level of nerves you experience. Emotional regulation is a critical mental skill for peak performance.

### Examine how nervousness and anxiety have impacted past performances.

Look back at previous peak performances and notice your level of nerves and how it assisted your game. Likewise, recall past performances when anxiety caused you to fall apart.

Examining past performances can help you understand the difference between nervousness and anxiety and how a slight degree of nerves can enhance performance.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Pregame Nerves Facts and Fiction](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-nerves-facts-and-fiction/)
- [How To Ease Your Child’s Nerves During Tournaments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-ease-your-childs-nerves-during-tournaments/)
- [Pregame Nerves, Where Do They Come From?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-nerves-where-do-they-come-from/)

---

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital "The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“I am a PGA Professional and wanted some ideas to help my students, but my own game has improved! I think I will shoot 69, negative thoughts have vanished, and my self-talk and confidence has improved tremendously. I will be referring my students to your website.”*

~Bill Allen, PGA Pro

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Overcome Nerves, Pregame Nerves

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### [Leaving a Positive Legacy for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/leaving-a-positive-legacy-for-athletes-2/)

**Published:** May 24, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Leaving a Positive Legacy for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/legacy.jpg)

## What legacy are you creating as an athlete?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What legacy are you creating as an athlete?](#What_legacy_are_you_creating_as_an_athlete)
    - [What is the characteristic?](#What_is_the_characteristic)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Each athlete tells a story by how they act and respond to adversity. Each day, you add to your story, whether it’s consciously or unconsciously.

Sometimes, athletes forget that everyone hits rough patches. They feel they are the only ones who miss the last shot, strike out late in a game, give up a game-winning goal, are benched midseason, or get trapped in a performance rut.

No one’s career is a steady progression upward. Even the best athletes in the world must navigate injuries, slumps, mistakes, turnovers, errors, and bad games.

It is crucial to remember your **legacy as an athlete** is not what happens to you but how you respond to those events.

When you choose a positive mindset and respond optimistically to obstacles during your career, you craft a story you can be proud of when you are finished competing.

In addition, positive, purposeful action keeps you motivated and determined to accomplish your goals and uncover your athletic potential.

One common mental characteristic of athletes who build a positive legacy is resilience or mental toughness…

### What is the characteristic?

Athletes with a mentally tough mindset understand that challenges are necessary to grow their game. Instead of seeing unfortunate breaks or bad games as unlucky or negative, they see these events as an opportunity to learn, bounce back, and become better and stronger.

Mentally tough athletes understand that one game doesn’t define a career and that legacies are built over time.

Expectations were sky-high when Caitlin Clark was drafted No.1 overall by the Indiana Fever in the 2024 WNBA draft…

Clark was the NCAA National Player of the Year award winner in 2023 and the NCAA Division 1 all-time leading scoring record-holder. With such high accomplishments and ability, it would seem that she would easily assimilate into the pro game and continue to ascend in the sport.

However, in Clark’s first game, despite scoring 20 points, she also was in foul trouble early in the game and committed ten turnovers, a record for a player’s first game in the WNBA.

It’s not Clark’s performance that is notable, but her response to her performance.

**CLARK**: *“Just giving myself grace. It’s going to be a learning period for me, but at the same same time, still have the same confidence and belief in yourself that you’ve always had. That’s what’s got me to this point of just being myself, so continuing to be me, but also like, there’s gonna be things for me to learn and I’m gonna learn very fast.”*

Clark’s **legacy as an athlete** is not merely her accomplishments but her work behind the scenes that helped her along the way.

The endless hours of training and honing her shot and ball handling skills, bouncing back after a bad game, dealing with distractions and outside noise, learning from her mistakes, and a refusal to back down are part of her journey.

When you consciously choose how to respond to adversity, you control the narrative of who you are as an athlete. How will you leave a positive **legacy for athletes?**

Think about what legacy you are leaving behind. Will you be remembered as a mentally tough athlete who persisted through tough times? Will you leave behind the legacy of never giving up?

**To build a positive athletic legacy, decide the following:**

- How do you respond after a loss?
- How do you prepare and practice?
- How do you react after a bad game?
- How do you handle performance slumps?
- How did you treat your teammates?
- How do you respond to adversity?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Are You A Fully Committed Athlete?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/leaving-a-positive-legacy-for-athletes/)
- [Helping Young Golfers With Perfectionism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-young-golfers-with-perfectionism/)
- [Tennis Psychology Podcast: Coping with Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tennis-psychology-podcast-coping-with-mistakes/)

---

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital "The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Legacy, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to be a Team Player](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-a-team-player/)

**Published:** June 14, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/team-player.jpg)

## What is your focus as a member of a team? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is your focus as a member of a team?](#What_is_your_focus_as_a_member_of_a_team)
    - [Use your teammates](#Use_your_teammates)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Are you focused on personal statistics or team success? How do you react after a win when a teammate’s stats are better than yours?

Some athletes prioritize being the team’s lead scorer, the “Top Dog,” the hero of a game, trying to lead the league in points or impressing a college coach.

While those goals may be personally significant, they should not supersede the team’s goals. In other words, winning should always be prioritized over personal statistics. When individual efforts align with a collective goal, the likelihood of team success increases.

The confusing part for some athletes is that they think the more points they score, the greater their chances of winning. However, that is not always the case.

Sometimes, your most significant contribution doesn’t show up in your stat line. Let’s illustrate **how to be a team player** through the following examples.

In baseball, there will be times when moving a base runner into scoring position will more likely lead to a victory than trying to hit a walk-off home run.

In basketball, an extra pass to an open player is often the better option for the team than shooting contested three-pointers.

In soccer, setting up a teammate may lead to more team victories than trying to dribble the ball through two defenders.

In team sports, the philosophy should be “We before me.” Focusing on **team play** fosters teamwork, strategic play, and a positive environment.

### Use your teammates

One example of complementary team play is the Boston Celtics. During the 2023-24 NBA regular season, Jason Tatum led the team in scoring, averaging 26.9 points per game. Through the first two games in the NBA Finals, Tatum has found another way to contribute to the team’s success. Tatum has led the team in assists, while teammate Jaylen Brown is the team leader in points.

After Game 2, Tatum commented that he is focused on winning a championship, not how many points he scores.

**TATUM**: “We’re so close to what we’re trying to accomplish. Why would I let my ego or my need to score all the points get in the way of that? We always talk about, do whatever it takes for however long it takes. If I need to have 16 potential assists every single night and that’s what puts us in the best position to win and it doesn’t mean I’m the leading scorer, by all means, if that gives us the best chance to win, sign me up.”

Winning a championship requires all players being on the same page, pulling in the same direction for one common goal. Success is only achieved when the team’s goal is the priority.

Success in team sports demands that each individual has a “Team-First” Mindset. To ensure a **team mindset** before a game, ask yourself the following questions:

- What is more important to me, victory or my statistics?
- What is my role for this game?
- What is the team’s game plan?
- How can I best contribute to the team if my game is off?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to be a Team Player Like Kevin Durant](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-a-team-player-like-kevin-durant/)
- [When Your Team Loses Its Best Player](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-your-team-loses-its-best-player/)
- [The Qualities of Good Team Leaders](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-qualities-of-good-team-leaders/)

---

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Team Culture in Sports, Team Dynamics, Teamwork

---

### [ How to Deal with an Unexpected Sports Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-an-unexpected-sports-loss/)

**Published:** July 12, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/sports-loss.jpg)

### Are Past Losses Impacting Your Game?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Are Past Losses Impacting Your Game?](#Are_Past_Losses_Impacting_Your_Game)
- [Assess The Game](#Assess_The_Game)
- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Confidence Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confidence_Athlete_Digital_Download)

How do you feel after being beaten by a statistically worse team? Even the best athletes and teams unexpectedly lose.

However, just because an opponent or opposing team pulled off an upset may not mean you choked in the competition.

Losing to a statistically worse team may be difficult to process, but it is crucial to accept that losing happens in order to keep your confidence high.

This doesn’t mean you skip your post-competition evaluation, ignore mistakes you made during the game, overlook ways you could play better, or disregard how to have a different game plan in the future.

Unfortunately, many athletes get down on themselves after an unexpected loss. An **upset loss** can lead to excessive disappointment, self-criticism, and self-doubt.

You may start to think that you have lost your touch or that other athletes have improved through the season while your progress has stagnated. You may even attribute early success to luck or that your opponents had bad games.

Whatever the reason, a biased, overly critical self-assessment can lead to a loss of confidence and motivation, negatively affecting your performance in the next competition.

When you experience an **unexpected loss**, you should view your performance through an objective lens. Are there reasons outside of your control that contributed to the loss?

### Assess The Game

Again, this doesn’t mean you should shed responsibility or blame someone else for the loss; rather, look for contributing factors.

For example, did your opponent have an unbelievable game, playing well above their statistical average? Was your team short-handed? Were you or a teammate recovering from an injury or illness?

The key is to be objective in your evaluation and identify what you did well, what you need to improve, and what factors were outside your control.

In a 2024 WNBA midseason game, the New York Liberty (17-3) played the Indiana Fever (8-13). New York won the season’s first three games against Indiana, 102-66, 91-80, and 104-68.

Many outsiders expected the Liberty, who had the best record in the league, to dominate the Fever heading into the game. However, Indiana pulled off an upset victory, 83-78.

When Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu was asked about the unexpected loss, she honestly assessed the game.

**IONESCU**: *“We played Liberty basketball, but understanding, this is \[Indiana’s\] Super Bowl game. We’ve beaten them three times this year already. We knew they were gonna come into this game really hungry, and it’s tough to beat a team four times. It’s just tough in our league, especially with how every team has grown, and especially this young team.”*

Ionescu made several valid points… When you are the top team, opponents have extra motivation to beat you. Opposing teams grow and improve throughout the season.

In addition, defeating an opponent in every competition during a season is challenging. Ionescu offered no excuses and followed up her evaluation by stating what New York needs to do differently in future games.

**IONESCU**: *“I don’t think it was necessarily us not playing our style of basketball; it was just understanding that we have to come in with a sense of urgency, knowing it’s not going to be as easy as it was in the first couple games that we were able to go up against them because they’ve just grown.”*

To keep your confidence and motivation high after an upset loss, objectively evaluate your game. If needed, ask your coach or teammates for feedback.

Take ownership of what you can control and adjust your game accordingly. Most importantly, never stay satisfied with what you accomplished yesterday.

After an **unexpected loss**, maintain an objective perspective Remember that a single loss does not define your abilities or future success.

Keep the bigger picture in mind. Determine how you can prepare or play differently according to the game circumstances, then move on and get back to work.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How to Learn from Losses ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-learn-from-losses/)

---

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*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*
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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Learning from Losses, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [What is Good Teamwork in Sports?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-is-good-teamwork-in-sports/)

**Published:** July 19, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/teamwork-1.jpg)

## What is meant by a team mentality? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is meant by a team mentality?](#What_is_meant_by_a_team_mentality)
    - [There are some crucial elements of the “Team Mentality”: ](#There_are_some_crucial_elements_of_the_%E2%80%9CTeam_Mentality%E2%80%9D)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Many athletes refer to their “team” as a “family.”

However, a team is more like a workforce. A successful company comprises many roles, with each employee understanding their job description and what is specifically expected for each shift. When employees perform their roles to the best of their ability, the company runs like an efficient, effective, well-oiled machine.

The same is true of successful sports teams. Teams need to work together to win. When players are unclear about what is expected of them or try to perform outside their roles, the team becomes dysfunctional.

Imagine a basketball game in which everyone wanted to be the lead scorer.

Players would hog the ball, overlook open players, and hoist up ill-advised shots to achieve their agenda.

The same is true for gymnastics. If your best event is the floor routine, but the coach believes you would be most helpful to the team if you were on the beam, a negative attitude could impact the whole team, causing friction and underperformance.

### There are some crucial elements of the “Team Mentality”: 

- Accountability: Taking responsibility for your role and actions. Players hold themselves and each other accountable for their thoughts, attitudes, actions, and behavior during practice, competitions, and away from the game.
- Embrace your Role: Embracing your role requires understanding it, knowing what is expected of you, and how to meet those needs.
- Take Pride in your Role: Peak team play occurs when each player performs their role to the utmost of their abilities. When players want to match their personal statistics, lead the team in points, or be the hero late in the game, teams tend to fall apart.
- Stay Positive and Encouraging: Even if you are not actively playing, you can still be engaged and support your teammates. To be an asset to your team, maintain a positive attitude, and help your teammates fulfill their roles on the team.
- oStay Ready and Prepared: Always be mentally and physically prepared to perform, even if your playing time is limited.

This readiness shows your commitment to team goals and can be crucial when your number is called in unexpected situations. Adopting a team mentality can make you a valuable role player who significantly contributes to the team’s overall success.

Take, for instance, the following Olympic example. After Kawhi Leonard could no longer continue his Paris Olympic run with the U.S. men’s basketball team due to an injury, Team USA called upon guard Derrick White to fill the vacant spot.

White is now among the 12 chosen NBA players to represent the USA in the Olympic games. While White is not a prolific scorer, he is a stout defender, especially on the perimeter. He will serve as a role player and understands what is expected of him.

**WHITE**: “I just want to go out there and do what I do, try to fill any holes we might have.”

Being a good role player on an athletic team involves embracing your specific responsibilities, supporting your teammates, doing what is needed, and contributing to the team’s success.

When players buy into a “team mentality,” teams are more capable of achieving their potential.

Specifically, define your role for each competition. Your role may change from game to game. If needed, talk with your coach about what is expected.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to be a Team Player](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-a-team-player/)
- [Mental Toughness as an Underdog](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-as-an-underdog/)
- [Accepting Your Team Role](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/accepting-your-team-role/)

---

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“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Teamwork

---

### [What Makes Athletic Goals a Reality?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-makes-athletic-goals-a-reality/)

**Published:** July 25, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-goals.jpg)

## The Difference Between a Dream and Performance Goals

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Difference Between a Dream and Performance Goals](#The_Difference_Between_a_Dream_and_Performance_Goals)
    - [Other components of the goal-setting process are:](#Other_components_of_the_goal-setting_process_are)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

During the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, you will hear athletes interviewed talking about the Olympics being their long-term dream, such as, “I’ve dreamt about being an Olympian since I was a little kid,” or “Being an Olympian is a dream come true.”

Was it the dream that vaulted these athletes to Olympic status? If that were the case, everyone who had a dream of achieving something of significance would accomplish it.

A dream may spark interest in achieving something worthwhile. Having the same dream of accomplishment may even ignite a sense of passion.

However, dreams alone play a small role in athletic accomplishment. The power behind achievement lies in **goals**, specifically the goal-setting process.

Let’s distinguish between goals and dreams. Dreams are vague images that exist in your mind. Goals are specific, clear, well-defined objectives based on reality that trigger action. There is little power behind dreams.

But goals, on the other hand, provide athletes with sustained motivation to persist through challenges and obstacles. Effective athletic goals start with the SMART method. S.M.A.R.T. goals are:

- Specific – Your goal should be clear, specific, and well-defined.
- Measurable – Your goal should be quantifiable and have a means for measuring progress.
- Achievable – Your goal should be challenging but attainable.
- Relevant – Your goal should be personal, something YOU want to accomplish.
- Time-Based – Your goal should have a deadline or time frame. Identifying your athletic **goal** is only one step in the goal-setting process.

### Other components of the goal-setting process are:

- Goal Planning – Identifying the specific steps needed to accomplish your goal, including physical, technical, and mental skills that need to be developed.
- Progress Evaluation – Frequently, you should assess your progress by objectively evaluating your competition and practice **performances**. Are you on target to accomplish your goal in the designated time frame?
- Adjustments – After evaluating your progress, determine if there are tweaks to your plan that will keep you on track.

The following is an example of the confusion between goals and dreams.

Sixteen-year-old track prodigy Quincy Wilson started dreaming about becoming an Olympian while watching the 2016 Olympics. Despite failing to qualify for the 400-meter individual event at the trials, Wilson was added to the Team USA 4×400 relay pool.

**WILSON**: “I remember seeing Justin Gatlin and Usain Bolt go head-to-head, and I was just like, ‘I want to be up there one day,’ And I told my mom, dad, and now, it’s the dream come true. When I got the call, I was like, I was ecstatic. I started running around the house. It was just a moment for me because everybody dreams about going to the Olympics as a young kid.”

Wilson’s initial dream may have set the wheels in motion, but he eventually transitioned his dream into a **goal** and started the planning and work phase.

Wilson committed to a training plan, actionable steps, intensity of effort, and visualization to accomplish his objective. Though he may still use goal and dream interchangeably, it was the goal-setting process that pushed him towards achieving something of significance.

**WILSON**: “When you dream about it a lot, it does come true when you put your work to it.”

Wilson’s addition to the USA Olympic relay team came after he ran under 45 seconds in three separate 400-meter heats at the trials, breaking the 42-year-old under-18 world record.

**WILSON**: “I’ve never been this happy a day in my life when it came to track. I’ve been working for this moment. That’s 42 years, 42 years of nobody being able to break that record, and I broke it twice in \[three\] days.”

To sum up, dreams spark interest, but goals ignite a passion and desire to identify a challenging objective, define an action plan, and commit to the necessary mental and physical work to achieve something of significance.

Turn your dreams into goals. Start by writing a SMART **goal** and creating a specific plan of attack to direct your actions. In addition, commit to objectively evaluating your progress and being flexible enough to tweak your plan when needed.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Sports Psychology And Goal Setting](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-psychology-and-goal-setting/)
- [Effective Goal Setting for Athletes in the New Year](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/effective-goal-setting-for-athletes-in-the-new-year/)
- [Setting the Right Goals for Skating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/setting-the-right-goals-for-skating/)

---

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### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Goals in Sports, Setting Goals in Sports

---

### [Mental Keys to Athletic Excellence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-keys-to-athletic-excellence/)

**Published:** June 27, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental Keys to Excellence in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/excellence.jpg)

## What does greatness require? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What does greatness require?](#What_does_greatness_require)
    - [The Goal is Consistency](#The_Goal_is_Consistency)
- [Focus on Consistency](#Focus_on_Consistency)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

What does it take to be your best, day in and day out?

Performance consistency demands consistency in your preparation, focus, and effort. Many athletes who have up-and-down performances pick and choose when they give it their all.

These athletes often have lazy practice habits. They don’t realize the impact that training, practice, and mental preparation have on performance. They believe they can flip the switch right before a game and be their best.

However, when the competition does not unfold as they would like, they usually pack it in and mentally give up, disregarding opportunities to turn their performance around during the competition.

Consistency does not mean you will have your best athletic performance every time you enter the competitive arena. There are too many variables outside of your control to guarantee winning or personal bests, such as nagging injuries, illness, your opponents, weather, officiating, and arena or field conditions.

Even during practices, there will be days when the grind gets to you, and you can’t seem to break out of physical and mental weariness. That is the nature of long seasons, competitive sports, and being human. It is difficult to be “on” and fire on all cylinders daily.

On those occasions, it is essential to focus and work the best you can, given the circumstances, and not be too hard on yourself for having an off day.

### The Goal is Consistency

Consistency is not easy, but you must maximize your opportunities to be great.

During practice, make the most of conditioning your body by pushing yourself past comfort. Take advantage of opportunities to work on your mental game.

Focus on honing your mechanics with every repetition. Look to work on the little things that most athletes overlook. Use your pregame routines to prepare yourself mentally and physically during pre-game instead of going through the motions during warm-up.

During the competition, hustle from the first to the last minute, no matter the score, situation, or opponent. Never take a play off.

When your mind drifts, quickly refocus and immerse yourself back in the competition. Do the things in a competition that other athletes are unwilling to undertake.

After the competition, objectively evaluate your performance and identify any areas that need improvement. Remind yourself to focus on the pursuit of excellence and not perfection.

The Las Vegas Aces won the WNBA championship in 2022 and 2024.

However, the defending champions have struggled during their first 12 games of the 2024 season with a 6-6 record. Vegas forward and two-time WNBA MVP A’ja understands to be great, you must first be consistent in all you do.

WILSON: “When you’re talking about greatness, it starts with consistency. Anybody can be good here and there, but who can be great every single game, every possession? And that’s what I’m striving for. And it’s hard as shit. I promise y’all, it’s hard as shit.”

Consistency is a challenge. However, when you make the most of each and every opportunity and pursue athletic excellence daily, despite the obstacles along the way, you can become the best version of your athletic self.

## Focus on Consistency

Identify 3-5 ways you can be consistent in your preparation, training, habits, efforts, competitive focus, game energy, or mindset. Write these on an index card labeled “My Keys to Athletic Excellence.”

Frequently review these keys to maintain high consistency and ownership of your actions.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Sports Psychology And Goal Setting](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-psychology-and-goal-setting/)
- [Effective Goal Setting for Athletes in the New Year](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/effective-goal-setting-for-athletes-in-the-new-year/)
- [Setting the Right Goals for Skating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/setting-the-right-goals-for-skating/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[GET FOCUSED](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Block Out Crowd Noise When Competing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-block-out-crowd-noise-when-competing/)

**Published:** August 15, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Block Out Crowd Noise When Competing](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/blocking-out-the-noise.jpg)

## How does spectator behavior affect your focus? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How does spectator behavior affect your focus?](#How_does_spectator_behavior_affect_your_focus)
    - [How to block out the crowd](#How_to_block_out_the_crowd)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Why do some athletes feed off the crowd while other athletes lose focus?

Crowd **noise** can be a massive distraction in sports competitions. Whether it’s cheering, booing, taunting, or hurling insults, the crowd’s impact can be significant.

The people sitting in the stands can only influence the outcome of a competition without even being on the playing field if you let them. Performing at your peak despite rowdy fans comes down to managing your focus and emotions.

Once you start noticing the crowd **noise**, your focus is diverted away from performing the task at hand. Some athletes who feed off the crowd become overexcited when the crowd is pumped up. They feel the heavy weight of expectations to win.

These athletes struggle to regulate their excitement, ditch their game plans, and try to do too much to please the fans.

On the flip side, some athletes who focus on the crowd **noise** become fearful of embarrassing themselves, making mistakes, and losing by a significant margin.

These athletes become overwhelmed by the moment, anxious, and have difficulty regaining their focus. In both instances, focusing on the crowd **noise**, an external distraction, leads to unproductive emotions and underperformance.

### How to block out the crowd

An effective way to overcome external distractions is to focus inward. Internal focus is when you direct your attention towards the movement of your body or on bodily sensations, such as breathing or relaxing your muscles.

Since you cannot focus on internal and external stimuli simultaneously, focusing inward minimizes the impact of crowd **noise**. In the 1,500-meter track event at the 2024 Olympics, the crowd **noise** was deafening.

Much anticipation revolved around the race between two of the best runners in the world: Jakob Ingebrigtsen, the defending Olympic champion, and Josh Kerr, the reigning world champion.

However, USA runner Cole Hocker pulled off the upset by bettering his personal best by nearly 3 seconds and setting an Olympic record in the process.

After the race, Hocker commented on the 80,000 screaming fans in the arena and the top runners in the field.

**HOCKER**: *“It was a deafening **noise**. I’ve never heard that in a stadium before. I kind of lost feeling in my body, and it didn’t feel like the Olympics anymore until it did… \[Ingebrigtsen and Kerr\] had all this added pressure and all that and **noise**. I think that’s part of this. This job is blocking out that **noise** and it gets harder and harder the more you excel.”*

When you focus on your game plan or your breathing, you reduce the impact of the crowd and foster peak performance. It is important to remember that focus is a choice that you have complete control over.

Knowing you have control over your focus is empowering and leads to more robust athletic confidence.

Deep breathing is a quick and easy refocusing strategy. Intentional, conscious breathing helps ground you in the present moment and slows down the body’s stress response.

This will relax your muscles, enhances fluid mechanics, and enables better decision-making.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Deal with External Noise](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-external-noise/)
- [Leaving a Positive Legacy for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/leaving-a-positive-legacy-for-athletes-2/)
- [How Top Athletes Improve Focus](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-top-athletes-improve-focus/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Concentration, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [Mindset Lessons from the Olympics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-lessons-from-the-olympics/)

**Published:** August 1, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mindset Lessons from the Olympics](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/olympic-mindset.jpg)

## Are losses devastating or motivating? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Are losses devastating or motivating?](#Are_losses_devastating_or_motivating)
    - [What did Huske say?](#What_did_Huske_say)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

This is a question all athletes should ask themselves.

Some athletes allow one defeat, especially if the competition was significantly important to them, to take the wind out of their sails…

They believe the possibility of another defeat is not worth the long hours of training and hard work. That one loss is all they need to conclude they are not good enough.

Other athletes use defeats to **motivate** themselves to kick training up a notch. That doesn’t mean they are not upset by the loss; instead, they reset after it.

They reset their goals, review their training plan, work on small aspects of their game they may have previously neglected, dedicate themselves to mental training, and hold themselves accountable every step of the way.

This type of athlete does not see themselves at a disadvantage at the next competition. They use the earlier disappointment to give themselves an edge. Since they are better prepared, they are more confident to compete.

In the women’s 100-meter butterfly at the 2024 Paris Olympics, USA swimmer Torri Huske chased down teammate Gretchen Walsh to claim Team USA’s first individual gold of the Games by 0.04 seconds.

However, in the same event at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games, Huske finished fourth and was .01 out of medal contention.

### What did Huske say?

**HUSKE**: “I’m not gonna lie. That was devastating. But, I think that it really fueled me.”

While such a narrow defeat would crush many other athletes, Huske used the loss to fuel her training efforts for three more years.

Not only did that fourth-place finish **motivate** Huske, but it also gave her a mental edge to avoid that feeling of disappointment.

The result of a significant competition does impact an athlete in some way. However, you can choose whether the impact will be positive or negative.

You get to choose whether the loss devastates or **motivates** you. You get to choose whether or not you will bounce back better or become deflated by the experience.

The first step in using losses to fuel your **motivation** is to process the loss. Review the competition and determine what you could have done differently or can do differently in the future.

Next, identify the skills, mental or technical, you need to develop to hone mechanics or improve your performance.

Afterward, figure out how to prepare better. Does your training regime need adjusting? Do you need a better-thought-out mental training plan?

Lastly, decide how you will keep yourself accountable for your actions, efforts, and attitude.

Your response to the loss will shape your athletic future, and it all starts with a choice.

A loss doesn’t indicate an end or failure. You can use the loss as a new beginning, a way to start over better and smarter.

To reset, ask yourself, “How can I use this experience to **motivate** myself?”

Then, reset your goals and design an action plan that keeps your focus on your objective and not a previous loss.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Pro Mindset to Play Your Best in Big Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pro-mindset-to-play-your-best-in-big-games/)
- [Lessons from Mahomes Winning Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/lessons-from-mahomes-winning-mindset/)
- [The Optimal Athletic Mindset for Rematches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-optimal-athletic-mindset-for-rematches/)

---

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mindset in Sports

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### [How Elite Athletes Think](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-think/)

**Published:** August 22, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/how-elite-athletes-think.jpg)

## How can you create positive competitive habits?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How can you create positive competitive habits?](#How_can_you_create_positive_competitive_habits)
    - [Unfortunately, under stress late in a game or when an athlete tires, habits take over.](#Unfortunately_under_stress_late_in_a_game_or_when_an_athlete_tires_habits_take_over)
    - [To determine your competitive habits, ask yourself the following questions: ](#To_determine_your_competitive_habits_ask_yourself_the_following_questions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

The answer is by working on those habits during practice. How do you battle during competition and not back down?

Again, the answer is to compete in practice from start to finish.

There is a saying, “Elite athletes practice in the same manner they want to compete.” Too often, athletes think they can “flip the switch” and take their performance to a new level in competition.

However, many athletes only try hard and focus when performing a drill they like. They only give their full attention when it’s a skill they want to work on.

These athletes may ignore minor aspects because they feel their impact is relatively insignificant. They pick and choose when to go full speed or give their complete focus to a task.

In truth, practice habits become game-time habits. When you think talent is more important than practice, you will go through the motions during some practices or put in the work when it’s convenient.

### Unfortunately, under stress late in a game or when an athlete tires, habits take over. 

If you are lax in practice or let up before practice finishes, you will be lax in competitions or let up before the final whistle.

If you are not aggressive in practice and don’t compete against your teammates during training sessions, those habits will appear in competitions.

If you back down in practice when playing against the best player on your team, you will probably back down against elite players during competitive games.

Practice prepares you physically and mentally to play. If you don’t take full advantage of practice sessions, you develop non-productive habits, will underperform in competitions, and fail to reach your full athletic potential

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown has focused on preparing rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell for his first NFL regular season. To sharpen Mitchell’s competitive mindset and develop positive habits, Brown challenges him every day in practice.

**BROWN**: “I know these are camp battles, but ultimately, I’m just trying to get him prepared for when we play in September, and that can carry on. He doesn’t back down. He hasn’t backed down not one time, and that’s what I want to see.”

When you constantly challenge yourself in training sessions and develop positive habits, competition challenges won’t be daunting.

In addition, you will feel more confident and up to the challenge in competitions because you passed the test in practice.

### To determine your competitive habits, ask yourself the following questions: 

- When I am tired in practice, do I continue to work hard until the end of the session?
- Do I say focused throughout practice? When I lose focus, do I recognize my lapse in concentration and reset my focus?
- How do I react to mistakes in practice? Will that reaction help my performance in competitions?
- Do I practice with a competitive mindset or go through the motions in training sessions?
- Am I aggressive throughout practice, or do I let up at times?
- Do I bring a high level of intensity to practice?

These questions will give you insight into your mental habits. Once you gain insight, you can set some target areas to improve for future training sessions.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Deal with External Noise](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-external-noise/)
- [Leaving a Positive Legacy for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/leaving-a-positive-legacy-for-athletes-2/)
- [How Top Athletes Improve Focus](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-top-athletes-improve-focus/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Elite Athletes, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How to Embrace Challenges Like Pro Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-embrace-challenges-like-pro-athletes/)

**Published:** September 5, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-challenges.jpg)

## Are you Ready for the Athletic Challenges in your Sports Career?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Are you Ready for the Athletic Challenges in your Sports Career?](#Are_you_Ready_for_the_Athletic_Challenges_in_your_Sports_Career)
    - [For example, what if you were not chosen for your high school varsity team? ](#For_example_what_if_you_were_not_chosen_for_your_high_school_varsity_team)
    - [VanSumeren viewed his circumstances as an opportunity and was up for the challenge.](#VanSumeren_viewed_his_circumstances_as_an_opportunity_and_was_up_for_the_challenge)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Many athletes become so focused on obstacles that they become overwhelmed by their circumstances instead of seeing solutions.

While obstacles may seem daunting, it is often not the obstacle that determines your future but your response to the challenge.

### For example, what if you were not chosen for your high school varsity team? 

Instead, you were assigned to the JV team for a second straight year. Would you continue to work and do whatever it takes to make the varsity team in your junior year, or would you consider quitting your sport?

How about if your coach replaced you in the starting lineup?

Would you still be motivated and fight to regain a starting role, or would you accept the demotion and lose your confidence?

**Challenges** in sports are ever-present; they are inescapable. How you respond to those **challenges** is a choice that significantly impacts your future.

When you view circumstances as **challenges**, you will focus on solutions. Each challenge you overcome helps you become a better athlete and more mentally equipped to handle future **challenges**.

Take, for instance, Ben VanSumeren, a 2023 non-drafted NFL rookie free agent for the Philadelphia Eagles. Before trying out for the Eagles, VanSumeren mainly played offense throughout his football career, until the Eagles decided to develop him into a linebacker.

### VanSumeren viewed his circumstances as an opportunity and was up for the challenge.

VANSUMEREN: “It was … very different. I’m always looking for the next thing to improve on and get better at, and that is the way I approached it.”

After the 2023 training camp, VanSumeren was assigned to the Eagles’ practice squad. Later in the season, VanSumeren was moved to the active roster and played 230 total snaps during the 2023 season.

However, VanSumeren was not satisfied, and his next challenge was to expand his role in 2024. VanSumeren dedicated his offseason to developing his defensive skills, and his work paid off. VanSumeren earned his way onto the opening-day 53-man roster.

VANSUMEREN: “I don’t leave a stone unturned. All the things that factor into my game and make me the player that I am, I’ve tried to focus on, and I think that’s really helped me going into this year. I’ve definitely taken some big strides… along with some coaching points I’ve gotten from coaches in the building and players I’ve played with, and it’s really helped me come a long way… I take these steps every day to prepare myself to make me the best player I can be.”

A positive mindset is crucial for overcoming **challenges** and achieving success in sports. By focusing on solutions and learning from setbacks, athletes can improve their game and develop mental toughness.

Stop classifying your circumstances as a roadblock, obstacle, or insurmountable mountain.

Instead, start seeing your circumstances as a challenge to overcome or a puzzle to be pieced together. Changing how you view or speak about a situation impacts how you approach those circumstances.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [The Mental Game Challenges of Injuries in Youth Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mental-game-challenges-of-injuries-in-youth-sports/)
- [How to Mentally Prepare For Challenges in Races](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-prepare-for-challenges-in-races/)
- [Overcoming Adversity and Mental Game Challenges in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcoming-adversity-and-mental-game-challenges-in-sports/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Challenges in Sports, Mental Game Challenges

---

### [How to Train Like a Pro](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-train-like-a-pro/)

**Published:** August 30, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/pro-training.jpg)

## How Much Time Do You Dedicate to Training

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Much Time Do You Dedicate to Training](#How_Much_Time_Do_You_Dedicate_to_Training)
    - [However, working smarter is adding mental training into the mix.](#However_working_smarter_is_adding_mental_training_into_the_mix)
    - [To be your best, you must prepare and train to be your best mentally and physically…](#To_be_your_best_you_must_prepare_and_train_to_be_your_best_mentally_and_physically%E2%80%A6)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [‘The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#%E2%80%98The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

The previous question is more than how many hours you practice or how often you **train** on your own.

While physical **training** is necessary for peak performance, it is not the only contributing factor.

You have probably heard the expression, “work smarter, not harder.” In sports, you must **train** both hard and smart.

Working harder is pushing yourself to your physical limits in practice and **training** sessions.

### However, working smarter is adding mental **training** into the mix.

While peak performance requires intense effort, without mental **training**, peak performance will consistently elude you.

Think briefly about how low confidence, a scattered focus, runaway emotions, or a lack of mental toughness hurt your previous performances.

Mental skills are crucial for peak play…

Confidence lays the foundation for peak performance. Without confidence, you will fall well short of your athletic goals. High confidence allows you to take risks during competitions that stretch your comfort without fearing making mistakes or failing.

A scattered focus can foster negative thoughts, doubts, and ruminating about mistakes earlier in the competition. Conversely, when you have a strong, sustained focus, you will be able to immerse yourself in the competition, speed up your decision-making, and play aggressively and intuitively.

A lack of mental toughness will cause you to back down from challenges and fall short of your athletic potential. When you are mentally tough, you will have a go-for-it mentality without worrying about potential negative outcomes.

Peak performance doesn’t just happen. Consistency is not a matter of luck. And strong mental skills are not genetic.

### To be your best, you must prepare and **train** to be your best mentally and physically…

For example, Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson, the two-time WNBA MVP, is on track for a third MVP.

During the 2024 WNBA season, Wilson is averaging a league-leading 26.9 points and 2.7 blocks, both career-highs. In addition, Wilson averages 11.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and two steals per game.

Why is Wilson consistently performing at an elite level?

The answer is that Wilson has mentally and physically **trained** and prepared to perform at her peak consistently.

A’ja Wilson commented on her peak play during the 2024 WNBA season.

*“I just see it as I’m doing what I’m supposed to do. I’m doing what I’m prepped myself, what I love to do. If this is historic, and the numbers say it, then great, but at the same time, this is something that I’m built to do,”* Wilson said.

Peak performance is not reserved for those who have a physical genetic advantage. Peak performance is available to those willing to do the mental and physical work.

When you focus on preparing and **training** yourself to play at your peak, the numbers will take care of themselves.

Create a **training** plan with the physical and mental elements necessary for peak performance. Include mental **training**, physical **training**, and technical aspects required for peak play.

In addition, remember that a plan is necessary but not sufficient. You must take action. It’s necessary to decide how to implement your plan and hold yourself accountable to become a peak performer.

Set two objectives for each **training** session, such as to play aggressively or to work on tactics, to help you improve each day by one percent!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)
- [Athletes Who Are Stuck in a Training Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-are-stuck-in-a-training-mindset/)
- [Mindset Training During Layoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-stay-active-during-layoffs/)

---

### ‘[The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Game Training, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How Pro Athletes Deal with Criticism in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-deal-with-criticism-in-sports/)

**Published:** September 19, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/criticism-in-sports.jpg)

## Do you Handle Criticism as an Athlete Well? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do you Handle Criticism as an Athlete Well?](#Do_you_Handle_Criticism_as_an_Athlete_Well)
    - [You have several options to deal with negative criticism:](#You_have_several_options_to_deal_with_negative_criticism)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

How has negative **criticism** affected your athletic confidence in past athletic competitions?

Even though **criticism** can be helpful, it is also hurtful. Negative criticism can cause you to doubt your abilities as an athlete. It can destroy your confidence.

Negative comments from media, parents, teammates, coaches, and fans can sprout negative emotions such as anger and frustration. Athletes are **criticized** all the time

When you are playing at a high level, compliments and praise are heaped upon you. However, when you underperform or make costly mistakes, the naysayers and **critics** appear.

If you are not mentally skilled enough to handle negative **criticism**, you may give up altogether on pursuing your goals. Since negative **criticism** is unavoidable, you need to learn how to handle it effectively so it doesn’t hurt your confidence, focus, or performance.

### You have several options to deal with negative **criticism**:

1. Sift out the negative – When you receive negative criticism, determine if there is any beneficial information and disregard the rest.
2. Take out the trash – If the criticism is unjust or merely insults, ignore it.
3. Think big picture – Sometimes, you will underperform, and judgmental comments will come your way. Keep your eyes fixed on your ultimate objective.

Though you cannot control the actions of others, you can control how you respond. Focusing on what you can control is the hallmark of great athletes.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has received a lot of negative **criticism** from fans, sports commentators, and social media despite being in the NFL for less than two seasons.

Young was drafted first overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, along with the hype came high expectations. Young finished his rookie season with 2,877 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, leading the Panthers to a 2–15 record.

After the Panthers lost their first two games of the 2024 season, a lot of negative **criticism** was directed at Young. Though Young acknowledged the heavy **criticism**, boos, and pressure, he stated his confidence remains high. Instead of focusing on the negative, Young is focused on the big picture.

YOUNG: “I understand the frustration \[of the fans\]. I know this city loves the Panthers. That passion is something I respect, and I share that same fire. We’re all disappointed, but this is part of the journey.”

Young has focused on putting in the work and developing his quarterback skills rather than dwelling on the losses and negative **criticism**.

YOUNG: “This is part of the process. There’s no growth without challenges. I’m committed to this team, and we’ll get better. We just have to stay the course.”

Negative **criticism** may hurt, but it doesn’t need to hurt your performance. Dealing with **criticism** requires understanding what you can control, maintaining a positive mindset, and tuning out extraneous noise.

When dealing with negative **criticism**, it is important to determine the good from the bad.

In other words, what information is beneficial, and what comments are trash? This insight will help you stay focused on positive steps you can take to improve your game

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How This Pro Manages Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-pro-manages-criticism/)
- [How to Turn Negative Criticism into Motivation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-negative-criticism-into-motivation/)
- [Helping Soccer Players Who are Self-Critical](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-soccer-players-who-are-self-critical/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Critism in Sports, Self Criticism in Sports

---

### [Mindset and How to Embrace Being a Role Player](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-how-to-embrace-being-a-role-player/)

**Published:** September 26, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/role-player.jpg)

## Preparation as a Starter or Role Player

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Preparation as a Starter or Role Player](#Preparation_as_a_Starter_or_Role_Player)
    - [The key for bench players is to be always prepared, including:](#The_key_for_bench_players_is_to_be_always_prepared_including)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Relaxed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

You can view a lack of playing time as a helpless situation, however, this negative **mindset** actually leads to a lesser role on your team.

When you adopt a negative **mindset**, several questions and concerns can stir in your mind:

- “Maybe I’m not good enough to play at this level.”
- “What if I never get any more playing time?”
- “Why should I practice hard if I’m not going to play in games?”
- “Why am I wasting my time if I’m not going to play?”

This negative approach to being on the bench hurts your motivation, confidence, focus, and effort.

When athletes have a negative attitude, their motivation suffers. During practice, they do not go all out. They hold back instead of focusing on improving their conditioning, strength, coordination, or skill development.

They see little benefit in putting in the work with little visible reward. They may even shrug off any responsibility for their situation and strictly blame their coach.

As a result, their confidence drops, and they make more mistakes in practice. Ultimately, their attitude and lack of improvement do not earn them playing time. They are stuck in an unproductive loop that holds them back from achieving more within their sport.

Conversely, athletes with a positive **mindset** take control and responsibility for their circumstances. Even when on the bench for a string of games, these athletes remain solution-oriented, which keeps them confident, motivated, and focused.

### The key for bench players is to be always prepared, including:

- Doing the work – If you want to improve, you must work to improve. That is true for mental and physical skills.
- Staying physically ready – It’s not enough to practice; you must be in peak competitive condition to be your best.
- Stay mentally engaged – On the sidelines, you should be mentally engaged in the game. Take notice of your opponent’s tendencies, what is working, and what you would do if you were in the game.
- Controlling what you can control – Remember, you cannot control your coach’s decision but are fully in charge of your attitude and effort.
- Making the most of your opportunities – When your number is called, go for it. Don’t hold back or fear making mistakes. Do what you have trained your body and mind to do.

Baltimore Ravens offensive lineman Ben Cleveland takes pride in his preparation despite playing sparingly over his first three seasons Even though he has lacked playing time, Cleveland stated he feels confident if asked to step in as a replacement.

**CLEVELAND**: *“I feel like I’ve been my most consistent and most proactive throughout camp. It’s been a struggle having to move around positions with injuries and stuff like that. But as far as adapting to other positions and just playing where I’m asked, I feel like I’ve been extremely consistent and competitive…So, \[I’m\] just staying ready for when my number gets called to go in and play.”*

Complaining about your circumstances or giving up on yourself is never the answer. Be proactive and prepared. Your opportunity may come sooner than you think.

Ask for feedback from your coaches and teammates on improving your skills. Stay positive, focus on solutions, and always be prepared when opportunity knocks.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Accepting Your Team Role](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/accepting-your-team-role/)
- [Managing the Many Roles Athletes Have](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-the-many-roles-athletes-have/)
- [How to Embrace Challenges Like Pro Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-embrace-challenges-like-pro-athletes/)

---

### [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital)

![Become a Fearless Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/relaxed-athlete-small-4.jpg)

“The Relaxed Athlete” audio and workbook program teaches you mental strategies to develop a focused and confident pregame routine for a poised and relaxed mindset. Learn how to get your mind right by overcoming pregame anxiety and worry.

*“After completing your program (**The Relaxed Athlete**)… he was more aware of the things that made him tight. He learned to control his breathing and control his emotions.”*

~Mark’s Father

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Mindset in Sports, Team role

---

### [A Post Game Routine for Young Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-post-game-routine-for-young-athletes/)

**Published:** September 23, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this video series, sport parents will learn how to help their athletes transition out of their athletic role. Learn tips on how to support your athletes after their competitions, no matter the outcome.

Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. We work with athletes in all sports – junior to professional – via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. Please contact us for more details.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

- [How to Improve Your Preshot Routine](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/follow-these-steps-to-improve-your-preshot-routine/)
- [Routines vs Superstitions for Athletes ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/routines-vs-superstitions-for-athletes/)
- [How a Pregame Routine Helps Athletes Succeed](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-a-pregame-routine-helps-athletes-succeed/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Routines in Sports

---

### [A Post-game Routine for Young Athletes and Parents](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-post-game-routine-for-young-athletes-and-parents/)

**Published:** September 26, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Welcome to the **Sports Psychology Podcast** by Dr. Patrick Coach of [Peak Performance Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/). Dr. Cohn and Georgia Miller, CMPC discuss the challenges sports parents face with young athletes and how to make sports a better experience.

Learn how to spot mental game challenges in athletes, what to say before and after games, and how to improve communication with young athletes. In this episode of the Sport Psychology Podcast, you learn: **A Post-game Routine for Young Athletes and Parents.**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

- [How a Pregame Routine Helps Athletes Succeed](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-a-pregame-routine-helps-athletes-succeed/)
- [How Routines Help You Get into the Flow](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-routines-help-you-get-into-the-flow/)
- [How to Use a Pregame Routines for Volleyball](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-use-a-pregame-routines-for-volleyball/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Practice Routines, Routines in Sports

---

### [The Pregame Parent Role](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-pregame-parent-role/)

**Published:** September 23, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this video, you will learn how to better the pregame conversations with your athletes to help them feel confident and prepared before they compete!

Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. We work with athletes in all sports – junior to professional – via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. Please contact us for more details.

### Watch This Video to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Watch This Video to Learn More:](#Watch_This_Video_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [The Mental Game Challenges of Injuries in Youth Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mental-game-challenges-of-injuries-in-youth-sports/)
- [How to Mentally Prepare For Challenges in Races](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-prepare-for-challenges-in-races/)
- [Overcoming Adversity and Mental Game Challenges in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcoming-adversity-and-mental-game-challenges-in-sports/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Pregame Anxiety, Pregame Mental Preparation

---

### [How Parents Can Help Athletes Before Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-parents-can-help-athletes-before-games/)

**Published:** September 23, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Welcome to the **Sports Psychology Podcast** by Dr. Patrick Coach of [Peak Performance Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/). Dr. Cohn and Georgia Miller, CMPC discuss the challenges sports parents face with young athletes and how to make sports a better experience.

Learn how to spot mental game challenges in athletes, what to say before and after games, and how to improve communication with young athletes. In this episode of the Sport Psychology Podcast, you learn: **How Parents Can Help Young Athletes Before Games**

### Listen to Podcast:

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Listen to Podcast:](#Listen_to_Podcast)
- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [The Pregame Parent Role](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-pregame-parent-role/)
- [Pregame Nerves Facts and Fiction](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-nerves-facts-and-fiction/)
- [Coping with Pregame Anxiety](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-pregame-anxiety/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How Athletes Can Use Self-Talk for Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-use-self-talk-for-performance/)

**Published:** September 12, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/self-talk-2.jpg)

## Can Your Self-Talk Improve How You Perform?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Can Your Self-Talk Improve How You Perform?](#Can_Your_Self-Talk_Improve_How_You_Perform)
    - [How can you stop unproductive self-talk and use self-talk to your advantage?](#How_can_you_stop_unproductive_self-talk_and_use_self-talk_to_your_advantage)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

The more poignant question is whether **self-talk** affects or impacts competitive play.

To determine if **self-talk** has influenced your performance, think of previous performances when you completely fell apart in a competition.

What were your thoughts before spiraling downward? Did you mentally beat yourself up over a mistake or tell yourself you have no talent? Did you talk yourself out of beating a higher-ranked opponent or team with a better record? Did you use phrases such as “I can’t,” “I won’t,” or “I will never be able to”?

These are forms of **self-talk**. If you experienced times when your **self-talk** was negative and hurt your performance, then it is easier to accept that positive **self-talk** or productive self-statements can enhance performance.

### How can you stop unproductive self-talk and use self-talk to your advantage?

1\. Understand how your **self-talk** has impacted your past performances.

In other words, think of examples in practice or competitions when your **self-talk** hurt or helped your performance.

What was your inner dialogue when you were competing at a high level? What were you thinking when you were off your game or feeling defeated?

2\. Identify game-time circumstances that usually lead to negative **self-talk.**

Knowing your trouble areas can help you proactively take charge of your **self-talk.**

3\. During competitions, recognize when you start thinking negatively or are using self-defeating statements.

To compete at a high level, you need to take control of your **self-talk** before it becomes detrimental to your performance.

4\. Have strategies to stop or counter negative self-statement.

In addition, you need to know how to change your **self-talk** and utilize productive, performance-enhancing language to compete at a high level.

5\. Be confident in your ability to implement this mental strategy.

In other words, practice using these strategies so they are easily implemented in competitions.

One example of an athlete taking charge of their **self-talk** is Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Bryce Huff.

Huff went undrafted in 2020 after a productive college career yet made the New York Jets roster despite criticism that he was undersized and was not projected to be an every-down player.

After a 10-sack 2023 season, the Eagles signed Huff to a three-year, $51 million contract. What helped Huff become a productive NFL player?

Instead of allowing negative opinions to infiltrate his mind, Huff took control of his **self-talk**. Whenever Huff sees his reflection in a mirror, he has a positive conversation with himself.

**HUFF**: “I tell myself who I am. I say, ‘You’re the best. You can accomplish whatever you put your mind to.’”

Huff utilizes these positive affirmations daily to improve his confidence and prevent negative **self-talk** from hurting his game. Taking control of your game starts with taking control of your **self-talk.**

Create some affirmations or positive self-statements to build your confidence, such as “No one outworks me” or “I am a talented and gifted athlete.” The key to gaining confidence from these self-statements and improving performance is to be realistic and positive.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How this Self-Talk Hurts Athletic Potential ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-self-talk-hurts-athletic-potential/)
- [How Self-Talk Can Help You Rebound ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-self-talk-can-help-you-rebound/)
- [Improve Self-Talk to Reach Your Peak Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improve-self-talk-to-reach-your-peak-performance/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“*The Confident Athlete*” audio and workbook program helps you feel confident before you walk onto the field, track or court. You discover how to have stable and proactive confidence so you can think like a champion.

*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*
~Radek Sefcik, Peak Performance Sports Customer

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Self-Talk

---

### [Self-Motivated or Parent Driven Athletes?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-motivated-or-parent-driven-athletes/)

**Published:** September 23, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this video, sport parents will learn the importance of a self-driven athlete versus one whose parent is driving the bus for them. Watch to gain helpful tips on how to help foster this self-motivation so your athlete can take more control of their game.

Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. We work with athletes in all sports – junior to professional – via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. Please contact us for more details.

### Watch to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Watch to Learn More:](#Watch_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Mindset and How to Embrace Being a Role Player](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-how-to-embrace-being-a-role-player/)
- [How Pro Athletes Deal with Criticism in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-deal-with-criticism-in-sports/)
- [How to Turn Negative Criticism into Motivation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-negative-criticism-into-motivation/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Motivation in Sports

---

### [ Is your Athlete Self-Motivated or Parent-Motivated?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/is-your-athlete-self-motivated-or-parent-motivated/)

**Published:** September 23, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Welcome to the **Sports Psychology Podcast** by Dr. Patrick Coach of [Peak Performance Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/). Dr. Cohn and Georgia Miller, CMPC discuss the challenges sports parents face with young athletes and how to make sports a better experience.

Learn how to spot mental game challenges in athletes, what to say before and after games, and how to improve communication with young athletes. In this episode of the Sport Psychology Podcast, you learn if your athlete is self-motivated or parent-motivated.

### Listen to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Listen to Learn More:](#Listen_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How a Pregame Routine Helps Athletes Succeed](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-a-pregame-routine-helps-athletes-succeed/)
- [How Routines Help You Get into the Flow](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-routines-help-you-get-into-the-flow/)
- [How to Use a Pregame Routines for Volleyball](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-use-a-pregame-routines-for-volleyball/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts

**Tags:** Motivation in Sports

---

### [How to Cope with Adversity in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-cope-with-adversity-in-sports/)

**Published:** October 8, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/adversity.jpg)

## Are You an Athlete Who Focuses on Problems or Solutions?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Are You an Athlete Who Focuses on Problems or Solutions?](#Are_You_an_Athlete_Who_Focuses_on_Problems_or_Solutions)
    - [Finding and implementing solutions requires a series of mental skills:](#Finding_and_implementing_solutions_requires_a_series_of_mental_skills)
        - [Mental skills not only help overcome obstacles, but those skills can raise your game higher.](#Mental_skills_not_only_help_overcome_obstacles_but_those_skills_can_raise_your_game_higher)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Competitive sports have their fair share of ups and downs, and every player experiences highs and lows during their career.

When players are at a low point, they sometimes feel like they are the only ones who experience tough times. It can be a very lowly and lonely place.

For example, if you were a three-year starter, and for seemingly no reason, your coach takes you out of the starting lineup for several games, many questions, doubts, and negative thoughts may occupy your mind.

- Why am I being benched?
- Will I ever start again?
- What if my coach no longer believes in me?
- Maybe I’m not good enough to play at this level.

These thoughts are relatively normal for any player in these circumstances. However, these thoughts focus on the **problem**.

If you are not careful and fall prey to your doubts, you will feel trapped and helpless. What happens after these thoughts will impact your immediate future.

If you focus on the **problem**, you will lose confidence and motivation. You will not feel in control of your future and hesitate to take action to move forward.

Conversely, if you focus on finding **solutions**, you will feel empowered. You will feel motivated to grow your game mentally, physically, and technically.

When you are **solution-oriented**, you will develop the mental toughness needed to conquer challenges.

### Finding and implementing solutions requires a series of mental skills:

- Goal Setting – What do you need to overcome your current challenge?
- Focus – How will you overcome your current circumstances?
- Confidence – How can I leverage my current skillset to improve my situation?
- Perspective and Patience – Is my situation permanent, or will it take some amount of time to move forward?
- Motivation – What will I do today to get the ball rolling in the right direction?

#### Mental skills not only help overcome obstacles, but those skills can raise your game higher.

After being waived by Gotham FC, winger Jenna Bike waited eight weeks for another opportunity. Bike acknowledged she struggled with her situation.

During those weeks, Bike continued to train and develop her skills, knowing she still wanted to play in the National Women’s Soccer League.

**BIKE**: *“I really wanted to stay in this league and stay stateside, so it was a lot of training, \[especially\] not knowing where my future was going to be or what was going to happen. It was honestly a little difficult at times.”*

After her 8-week layoff, Chicago Red Stars signed Bike to a two-year contract with an option for a third year. In a short time, Bike has improved substantially. Not only is Bike excited to play again, but she wants to be a difference-maker and knows that starts with a strong mental game.

**BIKE**: “The technical piece is something you can always control and something I always try and work on, but where I had to pay more attention is the mental piece, playing with confidence, and being the player I know I can be every day, no matter who I am standing next to or who is on the field with me.”

“Believing in myself has been so hard since I joined the league, but slowly, I’m starting to break the shell and get back to the basics. I know how to play soccer and have all the pieces; it’s just the mental side.”

Mental skills help bring into focus solutions that empower players to meet obstacles head-on. The truth is that well-developed mental skills can take you from average to awesome.

Don’t wait until problems arise before paying attention to your mental game. Taking a proactive approach to building mental skills can lessen or prevent obstacles from occurring in the first place.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**How to Succeed as an Athlete Despite Adversity**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-succeed-as-an-athlete-despite-adversity/)
- [**Managing Athletic Injuries** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-athletic-injuries/)
- [**A Mindset for Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital "The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)")

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Adverse Conditiong in Sports, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [The Playoff Mindset and Sport Psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-playoff-mindset-and-sport-psychology/)

**Published:** October 3, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![ The Playoff Mindset and Sport Psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/playoff-mindset.jpg)

## What is the Best Mental Approach to a Playoff Series?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is the Best Mental Approach to a Playoff Series?](#What_is_the_Best_Mental_Approach_to_a_Playoff_Series)
    - [You can stay focused by asking yourself three questions:](#You_can_stay_focused_by_asking_yourself_three_questions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

In a best-of-five series, some players focus on winning three games to pull off a series win. While that may be the goal, it may not be the best approach.

When you think of needing to win three games, pressure and anxiety increase.

In this **mindset**, you are focused too far ahead, which creates unnecessary stress. This mental approach amplifies mistakes and even early losses.

You start worrying that a bad game puts you behind the eight ball, and you see your chances of winning the series dwindle.

When your **mindset** is to take one game at a time, you minimize stress and distractions. You can better concentrate on the immediate task, your assignment for the game, and the game plan, and you can execute each play to the best of your abilities.

In addition, having a one-game-at-a-time approach prevents overconfidence or despair.

For example, if you’re leading the series, looking too far ahead can lead to complacency. If you’re trailing in the series, it might lead to discouragement.

Staying focused on the current game helps you focus all your attention and effort on playing at your peak, no matter the situation. Ultimately, focusing on the current game allows you to stay calm and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the bigger picture.

How do you ensure that you are locked in on the current game?

### You can stay focused by asking yourself three questions:

1. What is the game plan?
2. What is my role for the game?
3. How can I execute my role to the best of my abilities?

This strategy eliminates the “needing to win three games” approach and helps you narrow your focus to winning just one game… the game in front of you.

In Game 1 of the 2024 WNBA semifinals, the New York Liberty beat the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces, 87-77. The Liberty has a one-game-at-a-time approach.

New York forward Breanna Stewart, who finished with 34 points, stated the team has a clear focus… winning the next game.

STEWART: “We continue to fight, and that’s what we need… We’re hungry. We just want to continue to be better. And we know that tonight we got the win, but it (takes) more than one to win a series. We’re going to be ready \[for the next game\] on Tuesday.”

You can only be on top of your game when fully invested in the present moment. That means whether you win or lose a game in a **playoff** series, you reset and prepare for the next game.

Maintaining a single-game focus helps your team play collectively at their peak and puts you in the best position to win a **playoff** series.

One way to ensure you approach a five-game **playoff** series with a one-game-at-a-time **mindset** is to remind yourself that you can’t win three games at once.

All you need to do is win one game… three times.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [Mindset Tips for Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-playoffs/)
- [What’s the Best Mindset for Playoffs?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-your-playoff-mindset/)
- [Cleveland Cavilers Mindset For Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/cleveland-cavilers-mindset-for-playoffs/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Mindset in Sports

---

### [Peak Performance Under Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/peak-performance-under-pressure/)

**Published:** October 24, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-pressure.jpg)

## Why do some athletes perform better under pressure?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Why do some athletes perform better under pressure?](#Why_do_some_athletes_perform_better_under_pressure)
    - [The three mental skills necessary to perform in pressure moments are confidence, focus, and trust.](#The_three_mental_skills_necessary_to_perform_in_pressure_moments_are_confidence_focus_and_trust)
        - [Being clutch is wanting the opportunity and knowing you can rise to the occasion when necessary. ](#Being_clutch_is_wanting_the_opportunity_and_knowing_you_can_rise_to_the_occasion_when_necessary)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

When a game is on the line with seconds remaining, some players step up. They want to take the last shot in the fourth quarter, be in the batterís box with two outs in the ninth inning, take the penalty kick, or attempt the 50-yard field goal to decide the game.

You may think these clutch athletes are just gifted and talented. However, there are countless talented athletes who choke in **pressure** moments.

Does genetics play a part in performing under **pressure**? While it may be true that some athletes are more laid back, there is no such thing as a “clutch” gene.

Is being clutch a physical skill? Clutch athletes may have sound mechanics, but many athletes with efficient mechanics underperform when under **pressure**.

The truth is that performing under **pressure** is a mental process. Clutch athletes have trained themselves to perform under **pressure**.

### The three mental skills necessary to perform in **pressure** moments are confidence, focus, and trust.

- Confidence is vital for peak performance under all competitive circumstances. True confidence is stable and does not fluctuate according to the situation.
- Focus is blocking internal distractions (fear of failure, doubts, potential outcomes) and external distractions (crowd noise, opponents, environment). When you focus on what you need to do in the moment, you remain calm and composed.
- Trust is believing in your skills and training. Trust allows you to play instinctively, perform at your peak without hesitation, and let your skills naturally take control.

Performing under **pressure** does not always mean succeeding under **pressure**. You will not sink the final shot 100 percent of the time or hit a walk-off single to win the game every time your team is behind in the ninth inning.

#### Being clutch is wanting the opportunity and knowing you can rise to the occasion when necessary. 

In Game 3 of the 2024 WNBA Finals, the New York Liberty faced the Minnesota Lynx. With the game tied at 77 and the†clock ticking down from seven seconds, Sabrina Ionescu hit a 28-foot step-back three-point shot with 1 second left, giving the New York Liberty an 80-77 come-from-behind victory.

When interviewed after the game about her confidence and performance under **pressure**, Ionescu stated that she had prepared and trained for this moment the entire season.

**IONESCU**: “*I would say I visualize a lot when I’m practicing in the offseason, the night before a game, the day of a game. I’m always visualizing different scenarios and putting myself in tough situations. Obviously, I didn’t play my best tonight, but finding a way to continue to stick with it … I feel like that’s been a big growth for me, whether the ball is going in or not*.”

Even though Ionescu was not having her best game, she wanted the ball with the game on the line. Ionescu was able to put the early part of the game behind her and, without fear, attempt the winning shot.

As you can clearly see, performing under **pressure** is a trainable mental skill, a skill available to every athlete if they are willing to dedicate themselves to mental training.

While you can create **pressure** scenarios during practice, such as running a 2-minute drill, shooting competitions, or practicing with loud noises blasting from speakers, visualization adds another level.

Visualization allows you to replicate the feeling of a **pressure** moment and see yourself successfully performing in those clutch moments.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Pressure is Self-Induced by Expectations**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pressure-is-self-induced-by-expectations/)
- [**How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-under-pressure-with-confidence/)
- [**How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Keep a Positive Mindset for Non-Starters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-a-positive-mindset-for-non-starters/)

**Published:** October 31, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/positive-mindset.jpg)

## Are you frustrated with your role on your team? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Are you frustrated with your role on your team?](#Are_you_frustrated_with_your_role_on_your_team)
    - [The keys to improving your circumstances are three-fold:](#The_keys_to_improving_your_circumstances_are_three-fold)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Do you get angry because you believe you deserve to be a starter or given more playing time?

Some athletes feel they deserve a bigger role on their team. They may feel disrespected that their coach gives another player more playing time, especially when they believe their hard work and talent are overlooked.

You may very well be a better player or work harder than a teammate who is rewarded with more playing time.

Watching a teammate with a lower batting average continually being put in the starting lineup or a slower teammate being selected for the ‘A’ relay can be frustrating.

However, if your frustration leads to complaining and a negative attitude, it will impact how you train, practice, and prepare. As a result, your opportunities to prove yourself will dwindle.

Working through this situation properly requires focusing on what you can control. That may not be the answer you want to hear, but you can’t complain yourself into more playing time.

Not only will you waste your time and energy, but also your potential.

### The keys to improving your circumstances are three-fold:

1\. Understand you have no control over your coach’s decisions. The lineup and playing time are up to the coaching staff. You can alleviate some of your frustration and anger when you fully accept this fact.

2\. Know you have complete control over your actions, reactions, and attitude. You decide how hard to push during practice. You control how positive you will be during training sessions.

You get to choose to respond to circumstances with resolve rather than resignation. Knowing you have this level of control is empowering and motivating.

3\. Commit to being fully prepared when your opportunity arises. When you are prepared, you will confidently perform and demonstrate that you are a team player, which may lead to more opportunities.

Cincinnati Bengals rookie tight end Erick All Jr. understands that, in the NFL, competition exists between and within teams. All’s sole focus is working on being the best athlete he can be and taking advantage of his opportunities as they arise.

ALL: *“What I just try to think about is the stuff I can control. If \[the coach\] doesn’t put me in, I can only control what I do when he puts me in the game. I just try to focus on being in the moment, and getting the job done, and winning. That’s it.”*

Managing frustration over limited playing time is challenging, but it can also be a source of motivation.

You can elevate your game and build mental toughness by focusing on what you can control, such as improving your skills, maintaining a positive attitude, and being a team player.

Talk openly with your coach. Ask for feedback and what areas you can improve to contribute to the team and earn more playing time.

Coaches often appreciate players who take initiative and are willing to do whatever it takes to help the team.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [The Playoff Mindset and Sport Psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-playoff-mindset-and-sport-psychology/)
- [Mindset and How to Embrace Being a Role Player](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-how-to-embrace-being-a-role-player/)
- [Mindset Lessons from the Olympics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-lessons-from-the-olympics/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

Master Mental Game Coach to Pro Athletes Reveals His Secrets to Developing Ultimate Self-Confidence. If you’re an athlete who struggles with self-doubt, loses confidence, or can’t take “practice confidence” to competition, this could be the most important article you may ever read.

*“I first purchased **The Confident Athlete** to see how the program went and immediately saw results. I then purchased the rest of the confident athlete series and have noticed a dramatic improvement in my level of play or should I say consistency. I currently play NCAA Division 1 baseball for Lamar University, and even my coaches have noticed a change in the way that I approach the game. My attitude and confidence at the plate.”\**
**~Tylor Prudhomme**

[Learn More](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports, Mindset in Sports

---

### [How to be a Disciplined Basketball Player](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-a-disciplined-basketball-player/)

**Published:** November 7, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/discipline.jpg)

## Do you Consider Yourself a Disciplined Basketball Player? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do you Consider Yourself a Disciplined Basketball Player?](#Do_you_Consider_Yourself_a_Disciplined_Basketball_Player)
    - [Disciplined basketball players share some key characteristics:](#Disciplined_basketball_players_share_some_key_characteristics)
        - [Here is what Maxey said:](#Here_is_what_Maxey_said)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Mental Edge for Basketball (Digital Download)](#The_Mental_Edge_for_Basketball_Digital_Download)

Before you answer, consider the characteristics of a **disciplined** athlete.

A **disciplined** basketball player consistently strives for a high standard in their training, preparation, and performance in games.

**Discipline** for an athlete involves a commitment to training, doing the little things correctly, hustling on the court, developing a strong mental game, playing stout defense, a willingness to make sacrifices, and committing to continual improvement.

Athletes who lack **discipline** may go to practice, but they do not go all out in practice. They are haphazard in their preparation. They experience mental lapses during games. They don’t evaluate their performance after games and look for ways to improve.

Players who lack **discipline** are often a liability to their team, tend to plateau, and never reach their potential.

### Disciplined basketball players share some key characteristics:

- Mentally Engaged – **Disciplined** players have a goal for practices, are prepared to work, and stay mentally engaged throughout practice.
- Consistent Effort – During training sessions, they consistently put in a high-level effort even when motivation is low.
- Self-Control – **Disciplined** players avoid unhealthy habits and maintain peak physical and mental conditions.
- Goal-Oriented – **Disciplined** players buy into team goals and set clear, achievable personal goals.
- Mentally Tough – **Disciplined** players seek out challenges, work through obstacles, and are resilient in the face of adversity.
- Detail-Oriented – **Disciplined** players tend to the smaller aspects of the game, knowing that small details make a big impact.
- Mentally Skilled – **Disciplined** players dedicate time to building their mental game and improving their confidence, focus, performance under pressure, and managing game-time emotions.

Overall, **discipline** is the vehicle that takes players from good to great. The Philadelphia 76ers started the 2024 NBA season with three losses in their first four games.

The expectations are high for the Sixers after signing high-profile players during free agency. A lack of execution, effort, and preparation has been a theme for the Sixers.

After the slow start to the season, Philadelphia Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey commented that the team needs to become **disciplined** in their preparation and play on the court.

#### Here is what Maxey said:

**MAXEY**: *“We have to execute. We have to be prepared. We have to be more prepared than the other team. We have to know what we’re running and when we’re running, and we have to know the scouting report. We have to know what we want to do, and we have to execute that plan, whatever the coaches are telling us to do, no matter what the scouting report is, we have to execute.”*

**Discipline** is not built overnight. Building **discipline** is a gradual process that will pay off over time, improving your skills and game performance and strengthening your athletic mindset.

**Discipline** requires commitment and accountability. To become a more **disciplined** athlete, take responsibility for your actions. Track your progress.

Regularly evaluate how **disciplined** you are in practice, preparation, and play on the court. Each day, recommit to becoming the **disciplined** basketball player you want to become.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**How to Reach for Your Athletic Potential** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-for-your-athletic-potential/)
- [**How to Prevent Mental Mistakes During Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-prevent-mental-mistakes-during-competition/)
- [**How to Focus on Your Race for Triathletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-focus-on-your-race-for-triathletes/)

---

### [The Mental Edge for Basketball (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/mental-edge-for-basketball-digital)

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/basketball-large.jpg)

**The Mental Edge for Basketball** Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any high school**,** collegiate, or pro basketball players. In addition, basketball coaches and parents can benefit from this program by helping their athletes learn the psychological strategies taught to personal coaching students. We’re very confident that you and your athletes will improve confidence, focus, and composure when you apply these strategies. To your mental toughness in basketball!

“Both of the last 2 weekends, Nicolas had high-pressure basketball tournaments where he really showed improvement and maturity! He reacted very calmly to missed shots and mistakes and was very poised in the very close finals game. We have never seen him so composed and locked-in on the issue at hand! He has also realized that and tells us that he feels more calm and confident than before.” ~Alex Mylonas, Nicolas’ father

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/mental-edge-for-basketball-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Discipline, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [A Mental Game Formula for Athletic Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mental-game-formula-for-athletic-success/)

**Published:** November 7, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-success-1.jpg)

## What is Your Formula for Success? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is Your Formula for Success?](#What_is_Your_Formula_for_Success)
    - [Take, for instance, the following sports and commonly highlighted mistakes to avoid:](#Take_for_instance_the_following_sports_and_commonly_highlighted_mistakes_to_avoid)
        - [Philadelphia right winger Bobby Brink, commented on the team’s need to replicate their successful style of play from a year ago.](#Philadelphia_right_winger_Bobby_Brink_commented_on_the_teams_need_to_replicate_their_successful_style_of_play_from_a_year_ago)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

A **success** formula is like a recipe or set of instructions describing how to **successfully** and consistently create something.

For example, if your goal is to prepare at an elite level, what do you need to add to the mix that produces high-level preparation?

What habits, mentality, training, nutrition, and physical elements contribute to the formula? Likewise, if your goal is to elevate your game in competitions, what ingredients are necessary to ensure that outcome?

A **success** formula or recipe outlines the key components, step-by-step directions, and possible modifications necessary to meet your practice, improvement, or competition goal.

Why is a **success** formula necessary?

Too often, athletes have a list of no-nos or things to avoid heading into a competition.

### Take, for instance, the following sports and commonly highlighted mistakes to avoid:

- **Football** – “Don’t turn the ball over, “Don’t throw any interceptions.”
- **Basketball** – “Don’t make unnecessary fouls,” Don’t force my shot.”
- **Baseball** – “Don’t leave the ball over the middle of the plate.”
- **Swimming** – “Don’t breathe off the turn.”

The problem is that a list of “don’ts” doesn’t instruct you on what to do. Focusing on what to avoid often leads to making those very errors.

To achieve athletic **success**, post a personal best, or secure a victory, you should focus on your mental and physical preparation, intended play style, mindset, and game plan.

How to create your **success** formula? Creating a **success** formula requires reviewing past performances and your best competitions and identifying what has worked for you.

In your best performances, how did you prepare, what was your mindset before the competition, what was your focus, what was your intensity level?

Your **success** formula is the combination of factors that elicited peak performance. When you focus on your strengths and **success** formula, you compete more confidently.

After a slow start to the 2024-25 NHL season, the Philadelphia Flyers tried to find their rhythm and piece together a string of wins.

Following a six-game losing streak, the Flyers won three of four games to steady themselves, including two consecutive games for the first time during the season.

#### Philadelphia right winger Bobby Brink, commented on the team’s need to replicate their successful style of play from a year ago.

**BRINK**: “*We know what made us **successful** last year, and it was kind of playing the way we did these last two \[games\]. I think we’re getting back to it, and it has led to a couple of wins here.*“

Every athlete and team has experienced **success** at some point in their careers. Within those **successes** are details that have contributed to peak performance. By highlighting past positive aspects, habits, and attitudes, you can create a formula that will contribute to future **success**.

After you have highlighted the specific ingredients that lead to **successful** and consistent performances, create a phrase to summarize your **success** formula.

This phrase should serve as a brief reminder of how you want to compete. A phrase such as “Outwork, out-hustle, and overcome” can remind you to stay aggressive, make hustle plays, and never give up.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**How to Reach for Your Athletic Potential** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-for-your-athletic-potential/)
- [**How to Prevent Mental Mistakes During Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-prevent-mental-mistakes-during-competition/)
- [**How to Focus on Your Race for Triathletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-focus-on-your-race-for-triathletes/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How to Handle Adversity in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-handle-adversity-in-sports/)

**Published:** November 21, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/adversity-1.jpg)

## Adversity as an Athlete

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Adversity as an Athlete](#Adversity_as_an_Athlete)
    - [Opportunities within adversity include:](#Opportunities_within_adversity_include)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

How difficult is it to “keep going” when you experience **adversity** during your competitive season?

**Adversity** can seem insurmountable at times. When you are benched for several games, it may feel like you will never see action for the rest of the season.

When you struggle through a slump, it can feel as though you will never have a good game or play at your peak. When you are injured, you may think your athletic career is over.

How you view **adversity** affects your motivation, confidence, training, and game performance.

For example, you start a season with high hopes. During preseason, you performed better than ever during your athletic career. However, when the regular season began, you significantly underperformed and were benched.

The motivation you had in the preseason drastically declined. Your confidence was decimated. You felt hopeless. Practice felt like a waste of time because you believed you would be on the bench for the rest of the year.

In this instance, your overall negative view of your adverse circumstances stagnates improvement and keeps you entrenched in the rut.

**Adversity** is unavoidable.

However, that may be a good thing. **Adversity**, when approached with the right mindset, leads to growth. When you tackle **adversity** head-on, you become motivated to improve, build your mental toughness, and achieve next-level play.

### Opportunities within adversity include:

- **Adversity** builds mental toughness, which is crucial for enduring future athletic challenges.
- **Adversity** pushes athletes to hone technique, improve their conditioning, develop mental skills, push beyond their comfort zones, and bounce back stronger.
- **Adversity** enhances perspective and helps you navigate the ups and downs inherent in sports
- **Adversity** can teach valuable lessons about preparation and your approach to the game.

During the 2024 NFL season, Chicago Bears rookie quarterback had a three-game drought throwing zero touchdowns and a completion percentage under 50 percent.

This is not the only time rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has faced **adversity**. As a freshman at Oklahoma, Williams hardly played the first half of the season. Williams’ coach, Lincoln Riley, gave him advice that helped him stay motivated and focused, which he still applies to this day.

**WILLIAMS**: “*Lincoln Riley called me the other day, and just wanted to talk to me. Check in, things like that. It’s something that he told me my freshman year, when I wasn’t in a position that I wanted to be in. I wasn’t starting at the time, and he told me to ‘keep going.’ I use those words to this day*.”

**Adversity** is a challenge and an opportunity to grow your athletic potential. **Adversity** builds champions, leads to greater athletic achievement, and strengthens your resolve.

How you face **adversity** determines how far you go in your athletic career.

Remind yourself that there is opportunity within **adversity**. To keep yourself going during tough times, use a key phrase to remind you to push onward.

Phrases that have personal meaning provide motivation and guidance when **adversity** strikes. Remember, **adversity** doesn’t determine your athletic future, but your response to that **adversity** is the difference-maker.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**How to Reach for Your Athletic Potential** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-for-your-athletic-potential/)
- [**How to Prevent Mental Mistakes During Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-prevent-mental-mistakes-during-competition/)
- [**How to Focus on Your Race for Triathletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-focus-on-your-race-for-triathletes/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Adversity, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How Pro Athletes Respond After a Team Loss ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-respond-after-a-team-loss/)

**Published:** December 4, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/team-lossess.jpg)

## Respond to Team Loss like a Pro

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Respond to Team Loss like a Pro](#Respond_to_Team_Loss_like_a_Pro)
    - [Typically, there are three ways to evaluate your performance:](#Typically_there_are_three_ways_to_evaluate_your_performance)
    - [Read his explanation:](#Read_his_explanation)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

In team sports, a delicate balance is required when a player looks for possible explanations after a loss.

To win a team competition, more than one person is required. The same is true for losses, rarely is one person responsible for the loss.

### Typically, there are three ways to evaluate your performance:

1\. **Pointing the Finger** – Placing the blame squarely upon your teammates stunts your growth as an athlete. Also, it causes conflict within the team, holding them back from optimally functioning as a group.

Pointing the finger sounds like this, “It wasn’t my fault we lost. If my teammates played better defense, we would have won.”

2\. **Blaming Yourself** – Blaming or berating yourself for a loss chips away at your confidence, negatively affecting your potential future contribution to the team.

An example of blaming yourself is saying, “I stink. I keep making the same mistakes over and over. I cost us the game today and maybe even a playoff spot.”

3\. **Evaluating Objectively** – Analyzing losses objectively is vital to understanding what went wrong collectively and individually. This approach allows you to work on your mistakes, learn, and elevate your game.

When every teammate follows this approach, a loss can galvanize the team and increase the likelihood of achieving their seasonal objectives.

An objective evaluation can be accomplished by asking yourself a few simple questions: “Did tactical errors, a lapse in communication, execution, or the game plan contribute to the loss? What was my role in the outcome?”

Evaluating performance after a loss, as a team and individually, helps identify actionable solutions and brings the team together to work towards a common goal.

After a 26-21 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the New York Jets dropped to a 3-9 record for the 2024 NFL season…

Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers had one of his worst games of the season, completing 21 of 39 passes for 185 yards.

After the game, Rodgers offered an explanation for his struggles and lack of production while distributing the blame to the team as a whole.

### Read his explanation:

**RODGERS**: *“Well, there are 11 guys on the field. Sometimes, it’s my fault. Definitely multiple times today. And then the details aren’t there in some other spots, too.”*

Jets running back Breece Hall, who fumbled in the third quarter, blamed himself for the loss and was highly self-critical after the game.

**HALL**: *“I feel like this year has probably been the most trying year of my life … If I can’t take care of the ball, I shouldn’t be in the game. So, I have to be better, and I felt like today I lost us the game.”*

No one benefits when you assign blame to your teammates or blame yourself for a loss. Evaluating performance should always aim to uncover insights, not excuses.

Striking this balance helps build a positive team culture where losses become opportunities to grow stronger as a team.

In team sports, finding the right balance between taking responsibility for a loss and seeking explanations is essential for personal improvement, team cohesion, and team play.

After identifying what lead to losing, shift focus to actionable strategies….

What changes can be made in training, preparation, or on-field execution to improve for the next game?

Learn and grow from the loss rather than assign blame to others.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [ **How to Deal with an Unexpected Sports Loss**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-an-unexpected-sports-loss/)
- [**How Athletes Respond to a Loss**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [**How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

“*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Mental Strategies to Become the Best Athlete Possible](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-strategies-to-become-the-best-athlete-possible/)

**Published:** November 14, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/mental-strategies.jpg)

## How Do You Achieve Your Athletic Potential? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do You Achieve Your Athletic Potential?](#How_Do_You_Achieve_Your_Athletic_Potential)
    - [Celebrate Your Past Growth](#Celebrate_Your_Past_Growth)
        - [Ask yourself, “What three things can I do this week to challenge myself and expand my current level of performance?”](#Ask_yourself_%E2%80%9CWhat_three_things_can_I_do_this_week_to_challenge_myself_and_expand_my_current_level_of_performance%E2%80%9D)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

More importantly, what holds an athlete back from reaching their potential?

When athletes are young, they are motivated by their **successes**. These young athletes search for ways to improve their games. They work on technique, push themselves in practice and training, and take advantage of every opportunity to lift their game to the next level.

They are excited to put in the work. **Success** builds on their desire for more **success**. Progress towards potential slows when athletes become satisfied with what they have already achieved.

Instead of exploring future **success**, they become content with yesterday’s accomplishments. Contentment can create a reluctance to step outside your comfort zone.

The problem with staying in your comfort zone is performance plateaus. **Success** becomes few and far between. Due to a lack of results, you start to lose motivation, and your effort decreases.

Practicing that was once fun and exciting is now perceived as drudgery or even punishment. You experience greater lapses in focus during training sessions and competitions.

Next, your performance plateaus turn into a decline in athletic performance. You falsely conclude that you have gone as far as you can in your sport and often quit before maximizing your potential.

### Celebrate Your Past Growth

On the other hand, if you celebrate past **successes** but still challenge yourself in your training, you maintain a high level of motivation. Striving for your potential requires a commitment to constant improvement. It is doing things that other athletes are not willing to undertake.

Striving for your potential is a mindset that helps you make the most of your opportunities for growth. It is learning from losses and mistakes.

Ultimately, striving for your potential is breaking through comfort, and instead of being satisfied with yesterday’s achievements, it’s building upon those **successes**.

New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers is committed to working towards his potential every day. The Giants selected Nabers in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

In seven games, Nabers has 557 receiving yards and is one of the leading receivers despite missing two games due to a concussion. Even with all of his **success** in college and during his rookie season, Nabers is not resting on his laurels.

**NABERS**: *“I know I’ve been doing the right things out there on the field, but I still feel like I’ve got a lot left that needs to be handled. I’m not where I want to be right now. I’m not finished, I never even got started.’’*

Athletes don’t stumble upon **success**, nor do they fall into their potential. If you are not actively working towards your potential, you stagnate in contentment.

#### Ask yourself, “What three things can I do this week to challenge myself and expand my current level of performance?”

After you identify these three items, break them down further: what can I do today to lift my game to the next level?

This commitment to excellence daily in your training will keep you focused and motivated to expand your game and come closer to your potential.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**A Mental Game Formula for Athletic Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mental-game-formula-for-athletic-success/)
- [**Defining Athletic Success on Your Terms** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/defining-athletic-success-on-your-terms/)
- [**A Mindset for Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

“*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Golf Psychology, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Move on After a Bad Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-move-on-after-a-bad-performance/)

**Published:** December 12, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/bad-performance.jpg)

## When is Having a Bad Memory a Good Thing in Sports?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [When is Having a Bad Memory a Good Thing in Sports?](#When_is_Having_a_Bad_Memory_a_Good_Thing_in_Sports)
    - [Use a bad performance as motivation](#Use_a_bad_performance_as_motivation)
        - [Here is what Elliott said:](#Here_is_what_Elliott_said)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Too often in sports, bad memories interfere with present **performance**. Think back to a time when you made a crucial mistake in a competition.

You replayed that moment over and over. No matter what you were attempting in the moment, that past mistake kept popping up in your head. Focusing in the moment felt impossible. Your confidence was shattered.

Not only did those memories hurt your current **performance**, but you dragged those bad memories with you to practice, affecting your training sessions.

When you went to your next competition, you carried those negative memories with you, and, no surprise, you had another bad game.

The refusal to shed negative memories and allowing mistakes to linger in your mind breeds further mistakes and poor **performances**. And, yes, it is a refusal to move on because you could make a different choice.

Instead of focusing on negative **performances**, bad decisions, and mistakes, you could choose to focus on improving your technique in practice, visualize how you could make better decisions in future competitions, or immerse yourself in preparing for your next game.

### Use a bad performance as motivation

Moving on requires a conscious amnesia. That is not to say to ignore past errors. The past can provide valuable insights on **performing** optimally in the future. The key is to learn and let go.

When you consciously choose to move on, you eliminate an intrusive distraction, giving you the power to focus on being your best in the moment.

Philadelphia Eagles kicker Jake Elliott has had a down year during the 2024 NFL season. Elliott had his best statistical year in 2023, making 93.8 percent of his field goal attempts.

Through 13 games of the current season, Elliott’s field goal percentage is only 75 percent. Elliott does not lack skill; he has been a clutch kicker throughout his career. So, how does Elliott plan to return to his previous level of play?

Elliott is focused on finding a solution. In other words, Elliott is focused forward. To focus on the present, you must shed the weight of negative memories or, to say it another way, have a short memory.

#### Here is what Elliott said:

**ELLIOTT**: “*I gotta watch the film. And take a look in the mirror and figure out…figure out fast.” I still really feel confident in myself. Feel like I’m hitting the ball well this year. So, I don’t wanna overemphasize one game. Just wanna go back to through the process and figure out.*”

When you place too much emphasis on mistakes, it robs you of the opportunity to perform at your peak in the moment… and the present is what matters most.

After a bad game, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this game?” How can I work to prevent making this mistake in the future?

This strategy is the learning component. Next comes the “Let Go” phase. In this phase, tell yourself, “I refuse to allow past mistakes to affect my performance in the present.”

By learning and letting go, you can grow your game rather than getting stuck in the past.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [ **How to Deal with an Unexpected Sports Loss**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-an-unexpected-sports-loss/)
- [**How Athletes Respond to a Loss**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [**How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

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[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Performance, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [Building Confidence for Athletes: Tips from Experts](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/building-confidence-for-athletes-tips-from-experts/)

**Published:** January 9, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Building Confidence for Athletes: Tips from Experts](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/tennis-confidence.jpg)

## What is the Key to Having Game-Changing Confidence?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is the Key to Having Game-Changing Confidence?](#What_is_the_Key_to_Having_Game-Changing_Confidence)
    - [Confidence is like any other muscle](#Confidence_is_like_any_other_muscle)
    - [Imagine how confident you would be if you…](#Imagine_how_confident_you_would_be_if_you%E2%80%A6)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Some athletes seem to ooze **confidence**. They appear unfazed during championship games, in the final minutes of a contest, or when trailing late in a game.

Why do these athletes have unwavering **confidence**? Is there something in their DNA that generates **confidence**?

**Confidence** is unequivocally not genetic. If you believe **confidence** to be primarily genetic, you may dismiss the notion that you can build elite confidence.

Not only is that misperception a mistake, but it is also detrimental to your performance and potential. **Confidence** isn’t something you’re born with, nor is it an exclusive trait of elite athletes.

Instead, **confidence** is a skill that can be developed by anyone willing to put in the work. **Confidence** is a mental skill requiring effort, focus, and dedication to build.

So, if you want game-changing **confidence**, you need to commit to training your mind, commit to working with a mental game coach who can teach you **confidence**-building strategies, put in the necessary work, and hold yourself accountable for developing your **confidence**.

### Confidence is like any other muscle

At the 2025 Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt was oozing **confidence**. Leavitt has already established himself as one of the top young quarterbacks in the country.

In his previous six games, Leavitt threw for 16 touchdowns and just one interception. Leavitt believes he is one of the best collegiate quarterbacks and was looking forward to facing Texas to prove himself on the field.

**LEAVITT**: “… *It’s just an opportunity for me to go prove myself. … I hope that every player on the field feels that they’re the best. That’s how it should be. You put all this work in and get to this stage. So why would you not believe that yourself?*“

Leavitt wasn’t born with high **confidence**; he put in the work, and his work paid dividends. **Confidence** is a commitment. **Confidence** is built on action. The more you work on your **confidence**, the quicker and stronger it develops.

Every day you work on a confidence-building strategy, it shows up in your competitive performance.

### Imagine how confident you would be if you…

- Strived for excellence
- Committed to maximizing your potential
- Looked for different ways to build upon your talent
- Improved the weaker areas of your game
- Prioritized mental skills training
- Broke through personal barriers
- Broadened your technical skill set
- Pushed yourself to higher levels
- Took ownership of your practice and competitive performances
- Never relent on improving little aspects of your game

Confidence is not reserved for the elite. Confidence is a mental skill developed by athletes who have the drive to achieve greatness.

Confidence empowers you to challenge yourself, learn from setbacks, and consistently push beyond your perceived limits. And when you commit to confidence, it’s game-changing.

Confidence is a process built step by step, not overnight. Identifying steps and strategies is crucial for the confidence-building process.

Therefore, setting confidence goals, creating a goal plan, implementing strategies, and evaluating your progress will help keep you on the path to game-changing confidence.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [ **How to Deal with an Unexpected Sports Loss**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-an-unexpected-sports-loss/)
- [**How Athletes Respond to a Loss**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [**How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“*The Confident Athlete*” audio and workbook program helps you feel confident before you walk onto the field, track or court. You discover how to have stable and proactive confidence so you can think like a champion.

*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*
~Radek Sefcik, Peak Performance Sports Customer

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Golf Psychology

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### [How to Reach Peak Performance In Athletics  ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-peak-performance-in-athletics/)

**Published:** January 16, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/peak-perfomance.jpg)

## What Helps you Perform your Best During Competition? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Helps you Perform your Best During Competition?](#What_Helps_you_Perform_your_Best_During_Competition)
    - [What is a peak performance recipe?](#What_is_a_peak_performance_recipe)
    - [Adopt A Peak Performance Mindset](#Adopt_A_Peak_Performance_Mindset)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

In other words, what is your recipe for **peak performance?**

Most athletes are dumbfounded when asked this question. They may come up with a few elements on the fly, such as working hard in practice, improving their mechanics, or practicing more.

However, those elements are general and limited. If you have no recipe for **peak performance**, your training and preparation will be haphazard.

During competitions, you will perform inconsistently. You will have a game where you are crushing it and feel unstoppable, and your next game will be riddled with mistakes.

With no success recipe, your confidence will be low because you won’t know for sure that you are optimally prepared to compete.

### What is a peak performance recipe? 

A **peak performance** recipe is a specifically designed preparation regimen intended to optimize an athlete’s competitive performance.

Elements of a **peak performance** recipe can include pre-game visualization, long-term and short-term goals, consistent competitive routines, practice goals, weekly performance evaluations, mental skills training, specific diet, weight training, etc.

When creating a **peak performance** recipe, you should consider three key components:

1. (Specific) What particular elements aid **peak performance**? The goal is to define steps that contribute to peak play, such as nutrition, recovery strategies, mental focus techniques, and training regimens.
2. (Personal) What works for you? Certain elements that help others perform at their peak may not work for you. Reviewing past successful competitions will help you identify factors that foster peak performance.
3. (Positive) What should I do rather than what should I avoid? Focusing on what you should do rather than what to avoid shifts your mindset toward proactive, positive action.

### Adopt A Peak Performance Mindset

This empowering approach gives you a sense of control during competitions and leads to high confidence. Defining your **peak performance** recipe helps you perform better and leads to greater consistency during competitions.

During the fourth quarter of the NFL Wildcard game against the Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown was on the sidelines reading a book about inner excellence.

Brown said he brings the book to every game. While the defense is on the field, Brown reads highlighted passages that help him maintain his composure and focus.

**Brown**: “*It gives me a sense of peace. That’s a book I bring every single game. My teammates call it a recipe. … It’s got a lot of points in there. A lot of mental game. I use it to refocus and lock in despite what may transpire in the game, good or bad.*“

Brown’s sideline routine is an element that helps him perform at his peak. You cannot be haphazard in your preparation and perform at your peak.

Personal athletic success requires knowing what to do, when to do it, and how to do it.

The first step in creating a **peak performance** recipe is determining what has contributed to successful past performances.

Try writing down as many elements as possible that have produced positive results. Then, create a Top 10 list of the most impactful aspects… That will be your **peak performance** recipe!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Peak Performance Under Pressure**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/peak-performance-under-pressure/)
- [**Improve Self-Talk to Reach Your Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improve-self-talk-to-reach-your-peak-performance/)
- [**Mental Training For Peak Performance in Golf**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-training-for-peak-performance-in-golf/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Peak Performance Athletes, Peak Performance in Sport

---

### [Team Mindset and the Next-Man-Up Mentality](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/team-mindset-and-the-next-man-up-mentality/)

**Published:** January 24, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/mentality.jpg)

## What is the “Next-Man-Up” Mentality?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is the “Next-Man-Up” Mentality?](#What_is_the_%E2%80%9CNext-Man-Up%E2%80%9D_Mentality)
    - [Bench players face several challenges:](#Bench_players_face_several_challenges)
    - [What is the best way to prepare for competitions when you are a bench or role-player?](#What_is_the_best_way_to_prepare_for_competitions_when_you_are_a_bench_or_role-player)
        - [Here is what they said:](#Here_is_what_they_said)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

The “**next-man-up**” mentality is a mindset that emphasizes preparedness, adaptability, and resilience, where every team member is ready to step in and perform at their best whenever called upon.

The **next-man-up** approach is essential for long-term team success, especially when injuries, slumps, and unexpected circumstances can affect the lineup at any time.

However, being a backup player is not an easy role on a team.

### Bench players face several challenges:

- Motivation is difficult to sustain. If you rarely compete in games, you may see the purpose in preparation, “Why should I practice hard if I am going to sit on the bench.” The problem is that when you are called to sub in, you will feel overwhelmed and not confident due to a lack of preparation.
- Staying engaged on the sidelines can feel challenging. Often, bench players feel more like spectators than part of the team.
- Backups often lack the necessary practice reps to hone their craft. Again, this lack of preparation can lower your confidence.
- Many role players called upon in a pinch experience more anxiety due to a lack of playing time, the weight of expectations from teammates and coaches, or the unfamiliarity with the game plan.

Knowing how to meet these challenges helps you play better when needed, improves your value to the team, and likely earns you more playing time in the future.

Preparation is the essence of the “**next-man-up**” mentality.

To put it in school terms, it’s a matter of mastering the material throughout the semester rather than cramming for the final.

### What is the best way to prepare for competitions when you are a bench or role-player?

- Practice and train as if you were going to start. Since you cannot predict when your opportunity will come, prepare as if it were to happen tomorrow.
- Know the details of the team’s game plan. Understanding the game plan and how to implement the plan will help you feel more comfortable and confident in game situations.
- Stay mentally engaged on the sidelines. Keeping your head in the game will help you smoothly transition into the flow of the game.
- VISUALIZE! If you are not getting many physical reps in practice, use visualization after practice to catch up on some mental reps.

Entering the 2025 NFL post-season, the Philadelphia Eagles were statistically one of the best defenses in the league. However, during the 2025 Wildcard playoff game, key linebacker Nakobe Dean was injured and ruled out for the rest of the postseason.

For the Eagles to remain in the hunt for a championship, role players Oren Burks and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. were tasked to fill the void.

Despite the heightened pressure of playoffs, Burks and Trotter welcomed the challenge ahead of them. Both players felt confident in their abilities because they had prepared throughout the season as if they would start every game.

#### Here is what they said:

**BURKS**: *“Even though we haven’t played a lot this season, we’ve taken mental reps. We’ve stayed sharp. The mentality you have to have is that it’s next man up, and we’re the next men.”*

**TROTTER**: *“I think I’m definitely ready for this. I’ve prepared every single week like I was going to start. I always make sure I’m on top of what I need to do as far as mentally and preparation wise. I look up to the veterans and see how they prepare. I’m ready, and I’m excited.”*

The **next-man-up** mentality means stepping in and stepping up when called upon, and it requires a great deal of commitment and preparation.

When teams adopt the **next-man-up** mentality, the entirety of the team is lifted as a whole, drastically increasing the odds of team success.

Since the **next-man-up** mentality embodies a team mindset, fostering healthy competition in practice is vital.

In addition, it is crucial to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts of those players grinding behind the scenes. This helps build team unity and fuel further efforts.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Peak Performance Under Pressure**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/peak-performance-under-pressure/)
- [**Improve Self-Talk to Reach Your Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improve-self-talk-to-reach-your-peak-performance/)
- [**Mental Training For Peak Performance in Golf**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-training-for-peak-performance-in-golf/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Fighting Mentality in Sports, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

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### [Mental Toughness in Poor Weather Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-in-poor-weather-conditions/)

**Published:** January 2, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental Toughness in Poor Weather Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/weather-conditions.jpg)

## How Well do you Perform in Cold or Rainy Weather?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Well do you Perform in Cold or Rainy Weather?](#How_Well_do_you_Perform_in_Cold_or_Rainy_Weather)
    - [Negative thoughts impact your performance in three ways:](#Negative_thoughts_impact_your_performance_in_three_ways)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Most games are not played in optimal **weather** conditions. In fact, there will be times when you will compete in absolutely nasty **weather**. Some athletes allow cold temperatures and rain to mentally defeat them.

However, when you learn to master unfavorable **weather** conditions, you can use those circumstances for a mental advantage. Did you know your performance in unfavorable **weather** conditions is impacted more by your thoughts than your talent?

Take, for example, a soccer team set to play a team of similar ability in 40-degree temperatures with a slight drizzle. Unfortunately, soccer is played wearing shorts and a light-weight jersey.

When you are on the field, there is no escaping the **weather** conditions and nowhere to take cover. You are on the field until your coach sends in a sub for you.

Of course, the **weather** will alter your play. The ground will be wet and slippery, and your muscles will be cold and tight. However, the degree to which the **weather** affects your game is up to you and your internal conversation.

If your internal conversation is negative, your play will suffer. It is counter-productive to tell yourself, “I am freezing. I hate playing in this **weather**. I can barely move. This game should have been canceled. I can’t wait until this game is over.”

Imagine if your opponents, who are playing in the same **weather** conditions, have a different mindset. These players know it is cold and wet and that the field conditions are not optimal.

However, they have a different, performance-enhancing thought process. “I’m going to fight for every ball and focus on the game plan of controlling the ball. I will keep moving to stay warm and look for my opportunities.”

Who has the mental edge in this example? Obviously, the advantage goes to the players who focus on the game plan and look for opportunities to make positive plays.

### Negative thoughts impact your performance in three ways:

1. Thoughts affect your physiology and movement. When you repeatedly tell yourself that you are freezing, you will increasingly feel cold and stiff.
2. Motivation wanes when you continually think about the poor **weather** conditions. Instead of hustling on the field, you will just want the game to be over.
3. Focus will be diverted away from playing the game and looking for opportunities to make productive plays. The fact is that what you tell yourself is what you will focus on, and your focus influences your play.

Prior to Penn State University hosting No. 11-seeded SMU in the first round of the College Football Playoffs, **weather** was a major topic of discussion. The **weather** prediction was a low of 15° and wind gusts of 30 miles per hour.

Neither team has played in these conditions this season. PSU defensive tackle Zane Durant views extreme **weather** as a challenge.

**DURANT**: “*My first cold game, I was struggling, so I kind of got used to it. It’s going to hurt regardless. It’s kind of a mental change you’ve got to get used to. The first time you go into it, you’re not aware of that.*”

Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter believes cold **weather** can give you a mental edge if you put your circumstances in perspective.

**CARTER**: “*For me, personally, it really doesn’t matter. It can be hot or cold, but \[they’re\] coming into our environment that we’ve pretty much been used to, and they pretty much have not. So it will be an advantage for us.*”

Conversely, SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee doesn’t see the cold as an advantage for Penn State.

**LASHLEE**: “*I don’t think the **weather’s** a big deal. Both teams are playing in the same conditions, whether it’s snow or no snow, whether it’s cold or kind of cold. It is what it is.*”

The **weather** is just a circumstance like any other, such as who, where, and when you are playing a particular game.

The key to success in sports is to master your circumstances instead of allowing your circumstances to beat you.

Take control of your self-talk. Consciously direct your thoughts to motivate you, improve your focus, and help you play your best.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Mental Toughness in Harsh Weather**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-in-harsh-weather-conditions/)
- [**Bad Weather Doesn’t Derail US President’s Cup Team**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/bad-weather-doesnt-derail-us-presidents-cup-team/)
- [**Mental Keys to Athletic Excellence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-keys-to-athletic-excellence/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Weather Conditions

---

### [Breaking Through Plateaus for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/breaking-through-plateaus-for-athletes/)

**Published:** January 31, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Breaking Through Plateaus for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athlete-plateaus.jpg)

## How to Keep Improving as an Athlete

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Keep Improving as an Athlete](#How_to_Keep_Improving_as_an_Athlete)
    - [You Will Encounter Many Ceilings As You Grow](#You_Will_Encounter_Many_Ceilings_As_You_Grow)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Relaxed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Have you heard the saying, “If you keep doing the same thing over and over, you will keep getting the same results”?

The quote emphasizes that you must take a different approach or change your behavior if you want different results. At points in your athletic career, you will experience **plateaus**. It’s unavoidable.

For example, you may be a golfer who consistently finishes in the top ten in tournaments. However, you just can’t seem to get over the hump and win a tournament.

Or a basketball player who has improved their shooting percentage inside the arc but hasn’t been able to raise their three-point shooting percentage.

Or a senior national swimmer who has been stuck finishing with the same time in the 100 Freestyle for the past year. Feeling stuck at a particular level is frustrating, especially when you know you are a hard worker.

However, **plateaus** don’t mean you aren’t working hard or are in a slump. Even the hardest-working athletes get stuck. Actually, **plateaus** are part of the growth process. It’s like a puzzle to figure out. When you work to find a solution, you will eventually see significant performance gains.

However, many athletes get stuck in **plateaus** because they get comfortable. They practice the same things or the same way with little deviation. The reality is that what you have done in the past may not get you to where you want to go in the future.

### You Will Encounter Many Ceilings As You Grow

Change is needed, whether that’s improving practice intensity, weight training, learning new mental skills, or tweaking your mechanics. To break through a plateau, you need something extra or different.

In other words, you must get comfortable being uncomfortable. UCLA center Lauren Betts has helped the No. 1-ranked Bruins to an 18-0 record to start the 2024-25 season.

Betts had a solid season in her sophomore year, however, she wasn’t satisfied with her production. So, Betts worked on her decision-making skills and conditioning in the offseason and preseason and took her game to the next level.

As a result, Betts is having a career year, averaging 20.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game. Betts credited UCLA trainer Ashley Samaniego for helping her improve her quickness and mobility on the court.

**BETTS**: “*On the mobility part, I got to give a shout-out to Ash (Samaniego), our trainer, because he kicked our butts all preseason long. This summer, I’m just working on fast sprints, just getting moving a little bit. I think that has to do a lot with how I’m moving \[and playing\] this year*.”

The saying, “If you keep doing the same thing over and over, you will keep getting the same results,” is more than just a catchy phrase; it’s a call to action.

Athletic growth and next-level production require breaking free from repetitive patterns. The key is to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.

Do something different. This may sound like a simplistic approach, but breaking out of comfort is never easy.

Each week, challenge yourself. For example, commit to 15 minutes of daily mental training or push yourself during conditioning sessions. Remember, tomorrow is built today!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Sport Psychology Podcast: Improving Self-Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sport-psychology-podcast-45/)
- [**How to Reach Peak Performance In Athletics** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-peak-performance-in-athletics/)
- [**Building Confidence for Athletes: Tips from Experts**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/building-confidence-for-athletes-tips-from-experts/)

---

### [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital)

![Become a Fearless Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/relaxed-athlete-small-4.jpg)

“The Relaxed Athlete” audio and workbook program teaches you mental strategies to develop a focused and confident pregame routine for a poised and relaxed mindset. Learn how to get your mind right by overcoming pregame anxiety and worry.

*“By far, **The Confident Athlete Series** is the most powerful tool I’ve used to perform my best. The simple and easy to use program has helped me take my game to the next level.”*

~Shaun Burrell, professional surfer

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Smart Athletes

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How Pro Teams Keep Winning](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-teams-keep-winning/)

**Published:** December 20, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/pro-winning.jpg)

## What Does it Mean to Stack Wins in Sports?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Does it Mean to Stack Wins in Sports?](#What_Does_it_Mean_to_Stack_Wins_in_Sports)
    - [How do you stack wins in sports?](#How_do_you_stack_wins_in_sports)
        - [Stacking wins is the key to long-term success and sustained excellence for all athletes.](#Stacking_wins_is_the_key_to_long-term_success_and_sustained_excellence_for_all_athletes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Relaxed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Stacking wins refers to consistently focusing on winning one game at a time. In sports, many athletes fall prey to looking too far ahead or riding the waves of emotion.

For example, when you win a couple of games, you are on a high and believe the wins will keep coming, irrespective of what you do. When this occurs, you may pay less attention to the primary reason for those wins: your preparation.

Stacking wins and consistent performance are impossible when you lack attention to detail, game planning, and effort. Stacking wins is a process. It’s building momentum and confidence over time, due to your preparation and effort.

Stacking wins is not necessarily putting together a winning streak; It’s about creating a positive feedback loop where each success builds on the last, leading to greater overall performance and consistency.

Stacking wins and consistently performing at a high level requires a combination of physical readiness, mental preparation, goal pursuit, game planning, and disciplined routines.

### How do you stack wins in sports?

Remember, stacking wins is an active process. The elements that contribute to stacking wins are:

- **Consistency during Practice** – Practice should be approached with high effort and focus. You should ask yourself each session, “What do I need to do during this practice to perform my best in the next game or competition?”
- **Consistency in your Preparation** – Preparation should never be lax or haphazard. You should prepare with purpose. In other words, “What can I do now that best prepares me mentally and physically for tomorrow?”
- **Positive Work Habits** – Your habits show up in pressure situations or under stress. The question then is, “What habits can I develop to perform at my peak during the heat of competition.

These mental aspects of performance improve performance and consistency, which help you stack wins.

Take, for example, the 2024 Atlanta Hawks. The Hawks advanced to the semifinals of the NBA Cup with a 108-100 victory over the New York Knicks.

The victory was Atlanta’s seventh win out of eight games. While winning the midseason NBA Cup is a significant accomplishment, the long-range objective for the Hawks is making the playoffs, which they failed to do in the previous year.

Currently in 7th place in the Eastern Conference, the Hawks know that stacking wins is the key to achieving their seasonal goal. Atlanta veteran Trae Young has preached the importance of focusing on the process to his teammates throughout the season.

**YOUNG**: “*I know we have a really young team… It’s just been great, to be honest with you, as you just want to keep stacking wins, and as a young team, when you win a few games, it’s easy to look ahead and be worried about the next opponent or get to high whenever you beat a really good team.*”

Stacking wins in sports is about fostering a disciplined and strategic approach to performance. It’s not just accumulating victories but a commitment to preparation, focus, and developing positive habits that translate into peak performance.

#### Stacking wins is the key to long-term success and sustained excellence for all athletes.

Commit to consistency in practice, preparation, and building habits. To maintain your focus on the process, use the phrase “Stack Wins.”

The process is what matters most.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Mind Over Matter: Crafting a Winning Mental Game for Upset Victories**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mind-over-matter-crafting-a-winning-mental-game-for-upset-victories/)
- [**Lessons from Mahomes Winning Mindset**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/lessons-from-mahomes-winning-mindset/)
- [**Jimmy Walker’s Winning Mindset at PGA**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/jimmy-walkers-winning-mindset-at-pga/)

---

### [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital)

![Become a Fearless Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/relaxed-athlete-small-4.jpg)

“The Relaxed Athlete” audio and workbook program teaches you mental strategies to develop a focused and confident pregame routine for a poised and relaxed mindset. Learn how to get your mind right by overcoming pregame anxiety and worry.

*“By far, **The Confident Athlete Series** is the most powerful tool I’ve used to perform my best. The simple and easy to use program has helped me take my game to the next level.”*

~Shaun Burrell, professional surfer

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Winning Mindset

---

### [Three Ways to Reset After Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/three-ways-to-reset-after-mistakes/)

**Published:** March 13, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, you will learn strategies for how to reset after a shift or after making mistakes in your sport. We talk about how negative self-talk and emotions are holding back your sports performance. Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental performance coach who works with professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

- [**When Sports Parents Dwell on Kids’ Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-sports-parents-dwell-on-kids-mistakes/)
- [**Sports Parents and The Problems with Focusing On Kids’ Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-parents-and-the-problems-with-focusing-on-kids-mistakes/)
- [**How to Benefit From Mistakes in Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-benefit-from-mistakes-in-competition/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Mistakes in Sports

---

### [How to Improve Athletic Confidence in Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-athletic-confidence-in-athletes/)

**Published:** March 13, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/perform-with-confidence.jpg)

## What are the Key Ingredients to Athletic Confidence?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What are the Key Ingredients to Athletic Confidence?](#What_are_the_Key_Ingredients_to_Athletic_Confidence)
    - [How to Overcome Confidence-Crushers](#How_to_Overcome_Confidence-Crushers)
        - [Here is what he said:](#Here_is_what_he_said)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Athletic **confidence** is crucial to playing at your peak in the playoffs and major sports events. Athletes understand the elements that undermine **confidence** but seldom take the time to explore the factors that lead to athletic success.

By recognizing what influences you, you can counteract the negative aspects and enhance the positive contributors. Many factors detract from athletic **confidence** such as:

- Worrying about making mistakes
- Fear of disappointing others (teammates, coaches, parents, or fans)
- Negative self-talk or a judgmental internal dialogue
- Setting unrealistic standards
- Trying to achieve perfection
- Not managing performance anxiety effectively
- Poor relationships with teammates or comparing yourself to others
- Buying into the harsh criticism of those around you
- Lacking focus or inability to ignore distractions in pressure situations
- Lacking mental toughness
- Neglecting physical training or not putting high effort into practice
- Lack of attention to mechanics and technique
- Mentally replaying recent past failures
- Limited exposure to high-pressure situations
- Preparing haphazardly for competition

The list of confidence-breakers is long but necessary to understand how potential mental and physical factors can detract from **confidence**.

Now that you know what harms **confidence** and the negative traps many athletes fall into, you can start countering confidence-crushers and begin building strong, lasting **confidence**.

### **How to Overcome Confidence-Crushers**

- Spend time developing mental toughness and other necessary mental skills
- Focus on your strengths and achievements
- Focus on controllable factors rather than external pressures
- Set realistic goals for the season
- Learn from defeat
- Spend time each day to work on building confidence through visualization and positive self-talk
- Prepare to the highest extent you can

Take, for instance, the **confident** play of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay women’s basketball team. In the Horizon League tournament quarterfinal, UWGB won in dominant fashion over Oakland University, 84-55.

The winner of the Horizon League tournament will earn an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. The No. 1 seed UWGB (27-5) is looking for their second straight Tournament berth.

UWGB senior Jasmine Kondrakiewicz commented on how the team has grown their **confidence** and prepared to perform at their peak throughout the season.

#### Here is what he said:

**KONDRAKIEWICZ**: *“We know going into each game what we have to do. We know, again, that everyone is coming in to give us their best. We always have a target on our back. So, I think just going in there, fully prepared, trusting ourselves, and trusting our preparation. Knowing that we have been in that situation before for the past however many years. Just taking that experience and using that to our advantage.”*

Kondrakiewicz’s comments revealed the keys to UWGB’s **confident** play: focus on the game plan, preparing at a high level, trusting their ability to perform under pressure, recalling past successes, and relying on their mental toughness.

Building strong, lasting athletic confidence is a daily process. Taking some simple but powerful daily actions can help you take your **confidence** to the next level.

Work to manage your **confidence** busters and have more stable, proactive **confidence**!

Do something each day to build your **confidence**. Growing **confidence** is an active process. Each time you take action, the better you will perform under pressure during the playoffs and major sports events.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Building Confidence for Athletes: Tips from Experts**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/building-confidence-for-athletes-tips-from-experts/)
- [**How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-under-pressure-with-confidence/)
- [**How to Build Confidence Like the Pros**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-confidence-like-the-pros/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“*The Confident Athlete*” audio and workbook program helps you feel confident before you walk onto the field, track or court. You discover how to have stable and proactive confidence so you can think like a champion.

*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*
~Radek Sefcik, Peak Performance Sports Customer

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence for Athletes, Confidence for Sports, Confidence in Baseball

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### [Embracing the Underdog Mindset in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embracing-the-underdog-mindset-in-sports/)

**Published:** March 21, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/underdog-mindset.jpg)

## What Do You Do When Called the Underdog?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Do You Do When Called the Underdog?](#What_Do_You_Do_When_Called_the_Underdog)
    - [Embracing the underdog role requires:](#Embracing_the_underdog_role_requires)
        - [How is Vanderbilt approaching the underdog role?](#How_is_Vanderbilt_approaching_the_underdog_role)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Do you embrace the **underdog** role when most people predict you will lose a competition?

When you are the **underdog**, you have two choices: believing you can win or believing you will lose.

If you believe you are going to lose, your body and mind will likely follow suit. You won’t prepare fully. Self-doubt will take over your mind. A lack of confidence will create focusing issues during the competition.

All these mental and physical factors will hinder your performance. In all reality, believing you will lose will probably cause you to lose.

However, if you embrace the **underdog** role and believe you can win, you will be able to tap into your mental and physical potential, maximize your efforts, and put you in position to achieve your goal.

### Embracing the underdog role requires:

- Ignoring Outside Noise – What others say means NOTHING. Shut out the external noise and focus on executing your game plan.
- Preparing to Compete and Win – Preparation builds confidence, sharpens your technical skills, and improves your ability to perform under pressure.
- Playing with Freedom – It is important to just play the game. The place for in-depth analysis is in the locker room and not on the court or field.
- Turning Negativity into Motivation – Let negativity from others ignite your competitive fire rather than extinguish it.
- Looking at the Facts – Both teams start 0-0 and the competition is not determined until the last second. The key is to perform your best between those two points.

Vanderbilt University enters the men’s 2025 NCAA basketball tournament as an **underdog**. Vanderbilt (20-12), will face St. Mary’s (28-5) in the first round.

Vanderbilt is a 5.5 point **underdog** against St. Mary’s, who is ranked 19th in the AP poll. Vanderbilt surpassed the predictions forecasted by the media, and beat five tournament teams (Tennessee, Kentucky, Ole Miss, Texas A&M and Missouri) during the regular season.

#### How is Vanderbilt approaching the underdog role?

Vanderbilt coach Mark Byington reminded his team that they have beaten the odds all season and this game is just another chance to do the same.

**BYINGTON**: “*We were against the odds the entire season. With what we had to do building this team and how fast … a lot of times \[doubters\] said something can’t be done. Then you’re picked at the bottom of the league. So we were always against the odds. … We did it so far this year. Now is the next time to do it again.*”

The **underdog** role is not a disadvantage, but a negative mindset is. It is up to you to refuse to accept limitations or expectations set by others.

When you prepare with confidence, embrace the situation, and give yourself a chance to succeed, you can turn doubt into an advantage.

Winning starts in the mind. When you choose to believe, anything is possible.

Being the **underdog** can either be an obstacle or a source of motivation. When most people predict that you will lose, you face a critical decision: do you accept their judgment and let doubt take hold, or do you disregard their opinions and fight for victory?

The choice is yours, and it will shape how you perform.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Mental Toughness as an Underdog**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-as-an-underdog/)
- [**How to Thrive as an Underdog in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-thrive-as-an-underdog-in-sports/)
- [**How to Counter The Upset When Playing an Underdog**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-counter-the-upset-when-playing-an-underdog/)

---

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![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Improving Resilience in Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improving-resilience-in-athletes/)

**Published:** March 5, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/resilience.jpg)

## How Quickly Do you Bounce Back from Athletic Disappointment?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Quickly Do you Bounce Back from Athletic Disappointment?](#How_Quickly_Do_you_Bounce_Back_from_Athletic_Disappointment)
    - [Turn Your Disappointment Into Something Good](#Turn_Your_Disappointment_Into_Something_Good)
        - [After the game, Hayes talked about disappointment and the process of moving forward.](#After_the_game_Hayes_talked_about_disappointment_and_the_process_of_moving_forward)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

**Disappointment** comes in all shapes and sizes for athletes, such as a loss, underperforming in a competition, reduced playing minutes, falling short of a personal best, or not making a cut for a championship meet.

Every athlete in all sports experiences their share of athletic **disappointment**. When you allow **disappointment** to fester inside, it stirs up negative emotions, lowers confidence, depletes your mental energy, and decreases your motivation.

You can think of **disappointment** as an over-stuffed suitcase. Carrying that weight around every time you go to practice, games, and competitions will wear you down. The more you think about a loss, mistake, missed shot, or falling short of a goal, the heavier the weight becomes, impeding athletic growth.

The key to handling **disappointment** is to unpack the event. In other words, process what happened and what you can do differently in similar circumstances, then work on that aspect of your game so you are prepared for future competitive situations.

Handling disappointment is freeing and gives you the confidence, focus and motivation to take your game to the next level.

### Turn Your Disappointment Into Something Good

**Disappointment** may hit you hard, but it doesn’t have to knock and hold you down. The commonality among all successful athletes is the ability to handle **disappointment**, learn from it, and improve because of it.

The United States women’s national team suffered its first loss in the coach Emma Hayes’ era when Japan defeated the U.S. soccer squad 2-1 to win the SheBelieves Cup title.

The USWNT had won the five previous SheBelieves Cup titles and were battling for their sixth in a row. In the end, the USWNT made costly mistakes, had too many turnovers and struggled to consistently finish when attacking.

#### After the game, Hayes talked about disappointment and the process of moving forward.

**HAYES**: “*It’s OK to be **disappointed**. I told the players that. It’s really important to remember moments like this and the learnings that we take from it, and I look forward to the next opportunity we’re together to build on some of that progress and learn the most important things when you play a top-class opponent. I’d rather do that now than much later.*“

As Hayes pointed out, setbacks are a part of the learning and improvement process and necessary for an individual or team to reach their potential.

Of course, a tough loss is **disappointing**, and feeling those emotions is normal.

However, at some point, you need to choose: Am I going to allow this loss or mistake to defeat me or will I take ownership of my part and use this experience to improve my game?

**Disappointment** is an opportunity in disguise, but you need to look for the lesson, then do the work to improve your game.

The key to getting over **disappointment** is to DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.

Don’t react passively and allow **disappointment** to dominate your mindset. When you take an active approach to handling **disappointment**, a potential negative becomes a positive.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Are You Playing to Not Disappoint Others?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/are-you-playing-for-others-in-golf/)
- [**Afraid of Disappointing Others In Golf?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/afraid-of-disappointing-others-in-golf/)
- [**Els Disappointed with Putting Woes, But Determined**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/els-disappointed-with-putting-woes-but-determined/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Athletic Resilience, Resiliency in Sports

---

### [How Athletes Approach Playing on a New Team ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-approach-playing-on-a-new-team-2/)

**Published:** May 1, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, you will learn how to approach guest playing on a new team. We discuss three strategies to help improve your performance when you are playing with a new team.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

- [**How Athletes Approach Playing on a New Team**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-approach-playing-on-a-new-team/)
- [**How Pro Teams Keep Winning**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-teams-keep-winning/)
- [**How Pro Athletes Respond After a Team Loss** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-respond-after-a-team-loss/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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---

### [Mental Game Strategies to Overcome Defeat](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-strategies-to-overcome-defeat/)

**Published:** April 25, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/overcome-defeat.jpg "overcome-defeat")## Does a Loss or Bad Game Have an Impact on You Mentally?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Does a Loss or Bad Game Have an Impact on You Mentally?](#Does_a_Loss_or_Bad_Game_Have_an_Impact_on_You_Mentally)
    - [The three most common counter-productive responses to losses, mistakes, and bad games are:](#The_three_most_common_counter-productive_responses_to_losses_mistakes_and_bad_games_are)
        - [Let’s look at an example from the 2025 NBA playoffs.](#Lets_look_at_an_example_from_the_2025_NBA_playoffs)
        - [Harris saw the game as an isolated event and was excited for the challenge of Game 2.](#Harris_saw_the_game_as_an_isolated_event_and_was_excited_for_the_challenge_of_Game_2)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

As an athlete, you will experience **losses**, mistakes, and off-games. It’s unavoidable. No athlete is perfect, nor should you hold yourself to such a standard.

However, bad games are not the most significant hindrance to an athlete’s growth in their sport. That distinction goes to how you react to those events.

Negative responses to undesirable outcomes can have a prolonged impact on an athlete’s development and future performances. If you are unable to let go, your confidence will plummet.

If you don’t process your emotions, the memories of those events will trigger the same intense emotions at the start of your next competition.

If you fail to learn from those events, you will have repeat performances and stunt your athletic growth.

### The three most common counter-productive responses to losses, mistakes, and bad games are:

1. Immersing yourself in negative emotions. Motivation decreases when you get stuck in frustration, sadness, or hopelessness. Not only will you not want to compete, but you won’t want to train.
2. Failing to evaluate your performance. Many athletes just want to block out the experience without looking at what happened or how they can learn to improve future performances.
3. Assuming that a poor performance is an indictment of their ability. This perspective causes your self-esteem and self-confidence to bottom out. The fact is that we choose our responses to events.

You can respond to **losses**, mistakes, and bad games negatively or in a productive, empowering way.

First, you can learn ways to decompress and process your emotions. This will allow you to handle disappointment in the future and help you think more objectively about the competition.

Secondly, you can choose to look for feedback from the competition, both the good and the bad. Sometimes, athletes only focus on the negatives and ignore the small successes.

Recognizing what you did well helps keep your confidence stable. Identifying your mistakes will allow you to design a plan for improvement, which improves motivation.

Lastly, you can choose to see the competition as an isolated, singular event instead of a trend. This response alleviates stress and pressure, allowing you to perform freely in future competitions.

#### Let’s look at an example from the 2025 NBA playoffs.

The Detroit Pistons were looking to win their first playoff game in 17 years. The Pistons were shooting above 50% from the three-point line and leading the New York Knicks by eight points heading into the fourth quarter.

However, the Knicks went on a 21-0 run over a four-and-a-half-minute span to win the game, 123-112. The Pistons could have responded by thinking, “Here we go again. We are not good enough to win big games. We are outmatched and will probably **lose** the series.”

While the team was upset, Veteran Piston Tobias Harris was not “all doom and gloom.” Harris recognized the team fell apart late in the game, but also identified the good aspects of the team’s play.

#### Harris saw the game as an isolated event and was excited for the challenge of Game 2.

**HARRIS**: “*For the majority of it, we did a really good job staying composed out there. It’s just one game of a series. Playoff basketball is about how you respond. \[How you respond\] is one of the biggest things in this league. I’m excited to see how we respond*.”

Mistakes, **losses**, and off-games are inevitable parts of sport, but they don’t define your potential; your response does.

When you learn to process emotions, find the feedback, and move forward confidently, you build mental toughness and grow your game.

After a tough game, write down three things you did well and three things you want to improve, no matter how small. This simple habit helps shift your mindset from defeat to development and keeps your confidence intact.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**How to Win Close Competitions**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-win-close-competitions/)
- [**How to See Loses as Lessons**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-see-loses-as-lessons/)
- [**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Learning from Losses, Mental Coach

---

### [How to Deal with a Coach Who Yells](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-a-coach-who-yells/)

**Published:** May 1, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/coach-who-yells.jpg)

## How to Deal with a Coach Yelling

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Deal with a Coach Yelling](#How_to_Deal_with_a_Coach_Yelling)
    - [Three common ways athletes respond to yelling:](#Three_common_ways_athletes_respond_to_yelling)
        - [If your sport is important, don’t allow anyone to steal your joy. Instead, look for the message and stay committed to your game.](#If_your_sport_is_important_dont_allow_anyone_to_steal_your_joy_Instead_look_for_the_message_and_stay_committed_to_your_game)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Nobody likes it **when coaches yell** at them. Coaches should treat their athletes with respect. Unfortunately, events don’t always unfold as we would like.

**Coaches who yell** feel as if it is a wake-up call and the best way to deliver feedback or instructions. Most of these coaches have no idea how to communicate effectively, but they may not realize the impact of their actions.

**When coaches yell**, athletes lose confidence, worry about making mistakes, and lose interest in their sport. For some athletes, their self-esteem takes a hit and they end up believing, “I’m not good enough,” “I’m a disappointment,” or “I’m a failure.”

Many times, these athletes quit because they no longer enjoy competing. While you can’t control how your coach gives instruction, there are ways to minimize the negative impact and even help you improve your performance.

Let’s examine three ways athletes commonly respond to **yelling from a coach.**

### Three common ways athletes respond to yelling:

1\. Shut Down – Many athletes shut down when coaches **yell**. It doesn’t matter if the coach has insightful information to build their game. For these athletes, shutting down is an automatic response to the chaos. Shutting down is when you build an invisible wall around yourself. While it may block out some noise, it prevents you from dealing with your feelings or improving your game.

2\. Take It Personally – Some athletes only hear the tone. No matter what the coach says, it is drowned out by the **yelling**. The loud and negative tone is interpreted as if there is something wrong with them.

3\. Find the Message – Some athletes separate the message from the tone. They still aren’t okay with the tone, but they extract what can help their game and discard the rest. This enables the athlete to protect their confidence, sift through the BS, and find information they can apply to elevate their game.

If their coach is just ranting, they chalk it up to the coach having a personal issue. It isn’t right to be subjected to such nonsense, but try not to allow it to affect you negatively or lessen how you think about yourself.

#### If your sport is important, don’t allow anyone to steal your joy. Instead, look for the message and stay committed to your game.

In Game 2 of the NBA playoff series between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves, Lakers coach JJ Redick became livid early in the second quarter.

Redick called a timeout and was angry with his team for allowing an 8-4 run to open the second and cut the Lakers’ lead to eleven. Redick didn’t hold back during the timeout. After the game, Los Angeles Laker LeBron James commented on Redick’s outburst and the importance of separating the message from the tone.

**JAMES**: *“We know JJ is going to (flip) out from time to time. That’s JJ. … At this point, for us, we obviously need to listen to the message and know how it’s delivered. For me, my high school coach my freshman year was kind of the same way. He would (spaz) out on us and you have to be able to understand it’s not how it’s saying it. But we responded out there.”*

Dealing with an angry coach isn’t easy, but you have the power to control your response. Your coach’s tone should never define your ability or your worth. It is crucial to stay focused on what matters: your love for the game and your athletic journey.

**When your coach yells**, take a deep breath, extract any useful information, discard the noise, and remind yourself why you started competing in the first place.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Annoying Sports Parents Who Yell from the Sideline**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/annoying-sports-parents-who-yell-from-the-sideline/)
- [**How to Focus When Coach is Yelling – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-focus-when-coach-is-yelling/)
- [**How Top Coaches Help Athletes Succeed**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-top-coaches-help-athletes-succeed/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

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*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Coaches, Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

---

### [How to Boost Confidence by Managing Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-boost-confidence-by-managing-expectations/)

**Published:** May 8, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Managing Expectations for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/managing-expectations.jpg)

## What is the Key to Performing at your Peak?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is the Key to Performing at your Peak?](#What_is_the_Key_to_Performing_at_your_Peak)
    - [Weight of Expectations](#Weight_of_Expectations)
    - [Prepare Like an Olympian](#Prepare_Like_an_Olympian)
- [Tips for Managing Expectations and Boosting Performance](#Tips_for_Managing_Expectations_and_Boosting_Performance)
- [FAQ – Managing Expectations and Confidence in Sports](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Managing_Expectations_and_Confidence_in_Sports)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

***Summary**: Learn how to balance confidence and expectations to perform at your best in sports. While confidence fuels peak performance, excessive expectations can create pressure and distract from focus. This guide explains how athletes can manage high expectations, focus on controllable factors like effort and mindset, and trust their training to achieve optimal results. Featuring insights from Olympic gold medalist Masai Russell, discover practical strategies to stay calm, steady, and confident during competitions.*

Of course, you need to be confident. Confidence helps you accomplish a lot in your sport. However, for some athletes, crushing it at a high level can increase the pressure to stay on top or perform consistently at a high level.

**High expectations** from the outside world and within themselves can cause athletes to feel they are supposed to win or achieve a personal best every time they compete.

When you have excessively high expectations before competing, distracting thoughts swirl in your mind that detract from your preparation, focus, and performance.

While you need to be confident in your ability to win, you must also **temper your expectations.** Confidence fuels performance while excessive pressure interferes with it.

**Managing your expectations** allows you to focus on executing your skills rather than obsessing over outcomes. One thing necessary to understand is that outcomes are not entirely under your control.

Therefore, **managing expectations** is essential for peak performance. You can temper expectations by focusing on controllable factors such as effort, execution, and mindset.

### Weight of Expectations

Certain thoughts can alert you that your expectations are excessively high. For example, “I need to win since I’m seeded first,” “What will others think of me if I lose,” or “My team expects me to be the best player on the field.”

These early warning signs can inform you that it’s time to switch your focus.

You can switch your focus away from outcomes by focusing on pre-competition routines, reminding yourself that outcomes are not fully under your control, or telling yourself, “I’ve prepared my best, let ‘s just see what happens.”

The key is to prepare your best, which helps you be confident in your abilities. The next step is to get out of your own way by **letting go of your expectatio**ns, trusting your training, and putting forth your best effort.

### Prepare Like an Olympian

Olympic gold medalist Masai Russell ran the second-fastest 100m hurdles time in history to open the 2025 Grand Slam Track Miami meet on Friday. Russell won in 12.17 seconds, five hundredths shy of the world record. Russell was highly confident heading into the track meet.

**RUSSELL**: *“I continue to say I’m one of the best hurdlers ever. I’m going to always stand by that.” However, Russell understood that excessively high expectations can hold you back from competing freely and performing at your highest level.*

**RUSSELL**: “I didn’t expect that, but I just went out there and competed. It shows when you turn your brain off and compete, you don’t know what you’re capable of.”

Performing at your peak requires **confidence and tempered expectations**. While confidence lays the groundwork for peak performance, managing expectations keeps you steady, calm, and focused during challenging competitions, allowing your talents and training to show forth.

Before every competition, examine your thoughts and determine if your **expectations are problematic**. If your expectations are too high, refocus on what you can control: your effort, your focus, and your attitude.

---

## **Tips for Managing Expectations and Boosting Performance**

1. **Focus on Controllables**
    Concentrate on factors you can control: effort, execution, mindset, and preparation. Outcomes aren’t fully under your control, so shift attention to what you *can* influence.
2. **Recognize Warning Signs**
    Notice thoughts like, “I have to win” or “What will others think if I lose?” These indicate expectations may be too high, signaling it’s time to refocus.
3. **Use Pre-Competition Routines**
    Rituals like visualization, warm-ups, or mental cues help calm the mind, keep you present, and reduce pressure to perform perfectly.
4. **Practice Self-Talk**
    Remind yourself: *“I’ve prepared my best; now let’s see what happens.”* Positive self-talk reinforces confidence while reducing anxiety.
5. **Trust Your Training**
    Confidence grows from preparation. Commit fully to your training and trust your abilities when competition begins.
6. **Detach from Outcomes**
    Focus on performing each step well rather than obsessing over results. Letting go of expectations frees your mind to compete at your highest level.
7. **Learn from Role Models**
    Study athletes like Masai Russell, who perform under pressure by turning off overthinking and trusting their preparation.

---

## **FAQ – Managing Expectations and Confidence in Sports**

**Q1: Why is managing expectations important for athletes?**
A: Excessive expectations can create pressure, distract focus, and interfere with performance. Managing expectations allows athletes to concentrate on controllable factors like effort, execution, and mindset.

**Q2: How can I stay confident without feeling pressured to win every time?**
A: Focus on preparation, trust your training, and remind yourself that outcomes aren’t fully under your control. Confidence comes from knowing you’ve done your best.

**Q3: What are signs my expectations are too high?**
A: Thoughts like “I must win” or “What will others think if I lose?” indicate expectations may be excessive and it’s time to refocus on effort and preparation.

**Q4: How can I reduce pressure before competition?**
A: Use pre-competition routines, positive self-talk, and visualization to stay calm and focused. Remind yourself, *“I’ve prepared my best; now let’s see what happens.”*

**Q5: Can focusing on outcomes hurt performance?**
A: Yes. Obsessing over results increases stress and reduces mental clarity. Concentrate on performing each step well, which naturally improves outcomes.

**Q6: How do elite athletes handle high expectations?**
A: Top athletes, like Olympic gold medalist Masai Russell, focus on preparation, trust their training, and “turn off” overthinking during competition to perform freely at their highest level.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [**Annoying Sports Parents Who Yell from the Sideline**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/annoying-sports-parents-who-yell-from-the-sideline/)
- [**How to Focus When Coach is Yelling – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-focus-when-coach-is-yelling/)
- [**How Top Coaches Help Athletes Succeed**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-top-coaches-help-athletes-succeed/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

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*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence for Athletes, Confidence for Sports

---

### [6 Steps to Mentally Recover from a Tough Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-recover-from-a-tough-loss/)

**Published:** June 19, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/process-the-game.jpg)

## How Do You Get Past A Loss?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do You Get Past A Loss?](#How_Do_You_Get_Past_A_Loss)
    - [How WNBA Players Recover from a Loss](#How_WNBA_Players_Recover_from_a_Loss)
    - [6 Steps to Recover from a Loss](#6_Steps_to_Recover_from_a_Loss)
        - [1. Focus on the Big Picture](#1_Focus_on_the_Big_Picture)
        - [2. Be Objective](#2_Be_Objective)
        - [3. Separate Your Ability from the Outcome](#3_Separate_Your_Ability_from_the_Outcome)
        - [4. Solicit Advice](#4_Solicit_Advice)
        - [5. Find the Lessons](#5_Find_the_Lessons)
        - [6. Recommit to the Process](#6_Recommit_to_the_Process)
    - [FAQ – Dealing with a Loss for Athletes](#FAQ_%E2%80%93_Dealing_with_a_Loss_for_Athletes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

*Summary: Losses are part of sports, and how you respond determines your growth. Ignoring them or stewing in negative emotions hurts confidence. Successful athletes process losses objectively, learn from them, and use them to improve future performance. To recover from a loss, athletes should focus on the big picture, evaluate performance objectively, separate identity from outcome, seek feedback, find lessons, and recommit to the process. Reflection, perspective, and purposeful action help athletes bounce back stronger and protect confidence.*

**After losing a game**, do you evaluate your performance, try to erase it from your memory, or stew in negative emotions?

**Losses are inevitable in sports**. No matter your ability or talent on your team, you will experience losses, whether it’s a buzzer-beater defeat, a missed opportunity, a critical mistake, an off-day, or a blowout.

If you try to block it out, you will miss valuable learning opportunities and athletic growth. When you wallow in self-pity or stew in negative emotions, your confidence will suffer.

What sets successful competitors apart from the rest is their ability to process losses and learn from those moments. Processing a loss objectively and intentionally helps turn temporary pain into long-term gain.

### How WNBA Players Recover from a Loss

The Minnesota Lynx, who lost in the 2024 WNBA Finals, started the 2025 season with nine consecutive wins. The Lynx dropped their first game of the season to the Seattle Storm, 94-84.

Despite the outcome, Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve downplayed the significance of a single loss. Instead, Reeve remains focused on what is most important, learning and preparing for the next game.

REEVE: *“We’re going to do like we always do. We didn’t win a basketball game. We didn’t accomplish the schemes that we were trying to accomplish. We have to get ready for Saturday’s game.”*

Likewise, Lynx forward Bridget Carleton highlighted the importance of objectively reviewing the team’s play and improving as a team. Carleton sees this step as crucial if the Lynx are to return to the finals and accomplish their goal of winning a championship.

CARLETON: *“Obviously, it’s harder to learn after a loss, but I think it’s a good moment for us to just look inward. They had 50 points in the paint, where we pride ourselves on the defensive end. Things like that just can’t happen if we want to do what we want to do this season, so I think good reminders for us to be better.”*

Accomplishing your seasonal goals requires growth and a focus on steady improvement. **Processing a loss** doesn’t mean minimizing it, blaming others, or obsessing over it.

Rather, processing a loss means using it as a tool for growth. Successful athletes learn from losses so they don’t repeat the same mistakes in future competitions.

Successful athletes take time to reflect, whether internally, with their coach, or with a Mental Game Coach. An objective performance evaluation **helps athletes process their emotions**, identify positive aspects of their game and parts of their game needing improvement, and helps them reset and prepare for the next competition.

Not only will it help keep your confidence intact, but it will also provide you with a purpose for practice and give you the motivation to achieve your seasonal goals.

### 6 Steps to Recover from a Loss

**Everyone experiences losses in competition**. Whether you’re a youth athlete, a college competitor, or a seasoned pro—how you respond matters. If you want to recover from a loss and grow from it, follow these six practical steps.

#### 1. Focus on the Big Picture

**One Game. Not Your Career.** When emotions run high after a loss, it’s easy to blow things out of proportion. But one bad result doesn’t erase your progress or potential.

Remind yourself: *This is just one chapter in a much bigger story.*

Zoom Out. Think long-term. Where do you want to go? How does **this loss help shape your journey** there? Often, the most painful setbacks teach the most valuable lessons.

#### 2. Be Objective

**Avoid Harsh Self-Talk.** It’s important to be honest, but not cruel. Saying things like “I suck” or “I’ll never win” is not only untrue—it’s damaging.

Look at the facts. What actually happened? What was in your control? Reflect with Purpose

Write down three things that went well, and three things to improve. This balances your perspective and starts shifting you toward action.

#### 3. Separate Your Ability from the Outcome

**One Loss ≠ One Identity**. A tough performance doesn’t mean you’re a bad athlete. It just means you had a tough day. That’s it. You can have a bad game and still be a good player.

Embrace the stepping stone. Use the loss as fuel. Each setback is a setup for a comeback. This mindset is key to recover from a loss with resilience.

#### 4. Solicit Advice

**Don’t Go It Alone.** Talk to your coach. Ask for feedback from someone you trust. They might see something you’ve missed.

A **[Mental Performance Coach](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coaches/)** can help you uncover patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and routines that contributed to the loss.

Stay Curious. Ask: *What can I learn?* Be open to hearing things that might challenge you. Growth often starts with discomfort.

#### 5. Find the Lessons

**Losses are Teachers.** Every competition reveals something. Maybe you need to prep differently. Maybe your focus wavered. Maybe nerves took over.

Look for the mental, tactical, and physical takeaways. Ask Yourself:

- What did I learn about myself?
- What would I do differently next time?
- What am I proud of, even in defeat?

#### 6. Recommit to the Process

Build Your Plan. Once the sting fades, shift into action. What small step can you take today to get better? Start with your next practice. Focus on doing the little things well.

Bounce Back Stronger. Athletes who recover from a loss the best are the ones who keep showing up. They don’t let one bad day define them. They use it to sharpen their edge.

**Final Thought**

**Everyone loses a game during the season.** No matter what stage you are in your athletic career, learning to effectively and objectively process competition losses is one of the most important mental skills you can develop. What matters is what you do next. Recovering from a loss isn’t about forgetting it—it’s about learning from it and stepping forward with purpose.

### FAQ – Dealing with a Loss for Athletes

**Why is processing a loss important in sports?**

Processing a loss is one of the most important mental skills for athletes. Losses give you feedback about your performance, preparation, and mindset. When you take time to review what happened, you protect your confidence and turn setbacks into learning opportunities. Athletes who process losses the right way recover faster, avoid repeating mistakes, and build resilience for future competitions.

**What happens if I try to forget about a loss?**

Trying to erase a loss from your memory doesn’t work. You miss valuable lessons that help you grow as a player. Athletes who ignore tough games often repeat the same errors and carry frustration into the next competition. Facing the loss, reflecting on it, and learning from it helps you move forward with purpose instead of getting stuck in a cycle of doubt.

**How should I evaluate a loss after a game?**

The best way to evaluate a loss is to stay objective. Avoid harsh self-talk like “I’m terrible” or “I’ll never win.” Instead, review the facts: What went well? What mistakes were in your control? A simple strategy is to write down three positives and three areas for improvement. This balanced evaluation keeps you motivated while showing you specific actions to take in training.

**Does losing mean I’m a bad athlete?**

No. One bad game does not define your ability or potential. Every athlete, from youth players to professionals, experiences losses. A loss is only an outcome, not your identity. Great athletes separate performance from self-worth. This mindset helps you bounce back with confidence, train with purpose, and avoid letting one game control your future results.

**What role do coaches or mental performance coaches play in recovering from a loss?**

Coaches and mental performance coaches give you an outside perspective. Your coach can provide tactical feedback and point out what the team needs to improve. A mental performance coach focuses on your confidence, focus, and resilience. They help you manage emotions, reset after a loss, and develop a stronger mental game so you can perform your best under pressure.

**What lessons can I take from losing a game?**

Every loss teaches you something. You may learn that you need better pre-game routines, stronger focus, or improved defensive execution. Losses also show you how you respond under pressure and where your mental toughness can grow. The key is to ask: What did I learn? What can I do differently? What am I proud of, even in defeat? Answering these questions gives you clear direction for improvement.

**How do I bounce back quickly after a tough loss?**

To recover fast, shift your focus back to the process. Start with your next practice. Commit to small improvements, like sharper communication, better effort, or stronger concentration. Successful athletes don’t let one game define them; they use setbacks to fuel their progress. Bouncing back quickly means controlling what you can and staying consistent with your preparation.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How Pro Athletes Respond After a Team Loss ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-respond-after-a-team-loss/)
- [ How to Deal with an Unexpected Sports Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-an-unexpected-sports-loss/)
- [How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)

---

### The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Learning from Losses, Recovery in Sports

---

### [Tips to Master the Recruiting Process](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tips-to-master-the-recruiting-process/)

**Published:** June 24, 2025
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, you will learn three tips to help your athlete get noticed by college coaches from a mental performance coach perspective.

### Listen to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Listen to Learn More:](#Listen_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
- [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How Pro Athletes Respond After a Team Loss ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-respond-after-a-team-loss/)
- [ How to Deal with an Unexpected Sports Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-an-unexpected-sports-loss/)
- [How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)

---

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”*

~Laura Grogan

[GET DETAILS](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Athletes Who Make Comparisons - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-make-comparisons/)

**Published:** June 8, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Do you often **compare yourself to other competitors** and then create expectations or feel less confident in your skills?

Watch this video to learn how to **[stop making comparisons to your competitors](https://youtu.be/CmTkymhJJqo?si=ZBY9WY-t61VPqSmj)** and stay focused only on your warm-up and performance.

**Video to Help Athletes Improve Confidence**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Videos

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Videos](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Videos)

- [The Relaxed Athlete](#The_Relaxed_Athlete)

- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-team-drama/)[The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)**
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)[**Having Fun While Performing at Your Best**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/having-fun-while-performing-at-your-best/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[**The Importance of Mental Toughnes**s](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

## The Relaxed Athlete

![Become a Fearless Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/relaxed-athlete-small-4.jpg)

You can possess all the physical talent in the world, the best equipment money can buy, and train harder or longer than anyone else in your sport or on your team, **but if self-doubt enters your mind** prior to competition, you simply **will not realize your true potential in sports**.

The Relaxed Athlete” audio and workbook program teaches you mental strategies to develop a focused and confident pregame routine for a poised and relaxed mindset. Learn how to get your mind right by overcoming pregame anxiety and worry.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Avoid Making Comparisons to Other Competitors](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/avoid-making-comparisons-to-other-competitors/)

**Published:** June 8, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, Dr. Cohn answers a question from a reader about how to stop making comparisons to others athletes and paying too much attention to their score as this can hurt confidence and lead to self-intimidation. Here’s the question of the week:

RACHEL: *“How do I ignore the other contestants score when they announce it on the loudspeaker. They announce it right as I’m warming up about to skate. I can’t cover my ears because it’s not professional, but how do I hear the score and just not care?”*

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [Athletes Who Make Comparisons](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-make-comparisons/)
- [Athletes Who Make Comparisons to Competitors](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-make-comparisons-to-competitors/)
- [Athletes Who Intimidate Themselves Before Competing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-intimidate-themselves-before-competing/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How to Learn from Losses ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-learn-from-losses/)

**Published:** June 22, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Learn from Losses](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/learn-from-losses.jpg)

## Do Losses Motivate You? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do Losses Motivate You?](#Do_Losses_Motivate_You)
    - [Keys for Using Losses as Motivation](#Keys_for_Using_Losses_as_Motivation)
    - [A few simple questions can steer you in a positive direction after a loss:](#A_few_simple_questions_can_steer_you_in_a_positive_direction_after_a_loss)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

For many athletes, losses hurt their confidence and detract from their motivation.

Unfortunately, losses are part of the athletic experience. So goes the saying, “You can’t win them all.”

How you respond to a loss separates good athletes from great ones.

After a loss, you have two choices:

1\. You can see the loss as an indictment of your ability as an athlete and competitor. This perspective cuts at your confidence. You wallow in self-pity and lose your motivation.

When you lose motivation, you go through the motions in training and practice. Your lack of preparation for future competitions leads to more losses.

2\. You can use the loss to your benefit. A loss can motivate you to improve. You think, “I’m not going to make those same mistakes,” or “I refuse to lose in that way again.”

In practice, you work your tail off. You recommit to improving your mental game to gain every advantage possible. This attitude lifts your game and takes you to the next level.

### Keys for Using Losses as Motivation

- Allow your emotions to settle after a competition
- Objectively review your performance
- Find the positives and the aspects of your performance that you did well
- Look for what needs to change without dwelling on the negative
- Commit to improvement and working to lift your game to new heights during training sessions
- Get to work

Vegas Aces’ Candace Parker is one of the best basketball players in WNBA history. At the beginning of the 2023 season, Parker was eighth all-time in the WNBA in career points (6,485), third in total rebounds (3,415), seventh in assists (1,593), and fifth all-time in blocks (612).

What separates Parker from most athletes is how she responds to losses.

PARKER: “I never thought of quitting after a hard season, 100 percent. If anything, I wanted to come back more and prove whatever I needed to prove.”

Last year, while playing with the Chicago Sky, Parker’s team lost the semifinal series against the Connecticut Sun.

In Game 5, Chicago let the Sun go on a 24-5 run in the fourth quarter to end the series. The loss was the main reason for Parker’s return for a sixteenth year and signing with Vegas.

PARKER: *“We lost last year, and the way in which we lost, having a 14-point lead going into the fourth quarter, kept me up at night and just ate at my soul. It was kind of just one of those things where I was like, I can’t end like this. The last time I play basketball, we’re not gonna blow a 14-point lead in the fourth quarter. So, I think that kind of refocused and motivated me.”*

Once a competition is over, it’s over. You may not be able to change the result, but you can choose your next steps and how you will respond to the loss.

Use the lose to improve your skills and game plan for the next week.

### A few simple questions can steer you in a positive direction after a loss:

- “How will I respond to this loss?”
- “Will my response help or hurt future performances?”
- “How can I gain a mental advantage for future competitions?”
- “Am I willing to put in the work?”

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How to Learn and Improve from Losses](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-learn-and-improve-from-losses/)
- [How to Recover Like the Pros After Losses](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-recover-like-the-pros-after-losses/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How Elite Athletes Use Visualization ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-use-visualization/)

**Published:** June 29, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Elite Athletes Use Visualization](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/elite-visualization.jpg)

## Do you Visualize your Athletic Performances? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do you Visualize your Athletic Performances?](#Do_you_Visualize_your_Athletic_Performances)
    - [Any worthwhile skill requires time and effort to develop.](#Any_worthwhile_skill_requires_time_and_effort_to_develop)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Is visualization a consistent component of your training regimen?

Most athletes answer “no” to both of these questions.

But why do so many athletes ignore visualizing performance, even after many elite, Olympic, and professional athletes attribute their success to this particular mental skill?

Several reasons exist for athletes not visualizing on a regular basis. However, each of these reasons has a counter-argument that can break down your defenses and make visualization worthwhile to explore.

1\. **Lack of time** — Many athletes feel overwhelmed with tight schedules. Some athletes spend over twenty hours a week or have other obligations like school and work.

However, with some time management, you will realize you have more than enough time to add visualization to your training schedule. The good news is that 10-15 minutes a day is all you need to reap the benefits of visualization.

2\. **Do not know “HOW”**— Any worthwhile skill requires learning and coaching. How does a golfer learn to drive the ball off a tee properly? They seek advice and training from a knowledgeable coach.

How does a pitcher learn to throw a split-finger fastball for strikes? They work with a pitching coach to learn the nuances and mechanics of throwing the pitch. How can an athlete learn the mental skill of visualization?

By working with a mental coach or seeking out resources to learn the specifics of visualization.

3\. **Feel visualization doesn’t work for them** — One common sentiment from athletes is, “I tried visualization a couple of times, and it really didn’t work.”

Take any athletic skill you currently possess. Did you give up on learning that skill after 1-2 attempts?

### Any worthwhile skill requires time and effort to develop.

The reality is that learning visualization takes less time to develop than throwing a split-finger fastball or driving a golf ball off a tee.

Once you break down your misconceptions, you can start learning about the benefits and strategies of visualization.

At the 2023 USATF NYC Grand Prix, British sprinter Zharnel Hughes won the men’s 100 in a blazing 9.83 seconds. Not only did Hughes achieve a personal best, but he also set the national record and ran the fastest time in the world this year.

After his win, Hughes commented that he \[visualized\] running that exact time the night before.

**HUGHES**: *“This morning, I woke up with 9.83 in my mind. When I looked on the clock, and I saw 9.83, I don’t know if you saw my reaction, but I was like, ‘what just happened there?’… Manifestation is real, man.”*

Seeing is believing. In other words, visualization builds confidence to the point that you “KNOW” you can achieve your goal.

Imagine what you could manifest in your athletic career if you added visualization to your daily training regimen.

This tip is straightforward. Find a coach and stick with the process until visualization feels comfortable.

Even the best athletes in the world started at ground zero before they learned how to visualize and successfully utilize the mental skill.

Know that visualization is not just about the visual system. You can visualize using other senses, such as auditory and kinesthetic as well.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Pros Use Visualization to Improve Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-pros-use-visualization-to-improve-success/)
- [How Visualization Helps Boost Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-boost-confidence/)
- [How Visualization Helps Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness

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### [Get the Mental Edge. Train Like an Elite Athlete.](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/get-the-mental-edge-train-like-an-elite-athlete/)

**Published:** July 6, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Get the Mental Edge. Train Like an Elite Athlete.](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/elite-athlete.jpg)

## How to Train to Win

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Train to Win](#How_to_Train_to_Win)
    - [A positive, opportunity-awaits mindset:](#A_positive_opportunity-awaits_mindset)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Many athletes complain about going to practice, especially if the training session is monotonous, dull, or consists of seemingly useless drills.

For example, some soccer players despise long training sessions in the rain. When you are soaked and cold by the midway point, who wouldn’t want to go home, dry off and fall asleep?

Some basketball players complain about conditioning for hours upon hours. They think, “Games aren’t even this long. What’s the purpose of this torture?”

Many slumping baseball and softball players dread going to practice because they feel no amount of practice will help them break out of their rut.

Practices can be miserable when you attach no significance to the training session.

The practice-is-miserable mindset has several drawbacks. This negative mindset:

- **Holds you back** from your athletic potential – How will you maximize your potential if you back off every time you don’t feel motivated?
- **Creates a bad habit** – Peak performance is the product of our habits. Doing things the right way builds reliable positive habits that help you rise to the occasion when competing under pressure.
- **Concedes the edge to your opponent** – If your opponent is maximizing their preparation and training while you neglect the same opportunities, you are giving your opponent a sizeable advantage.

However, putting in the mental game and physical work when you are not in the mood can be highly productive.

The reality is that soccer players will play in the rain… Basketball players will tire towards the end of games…

And baseball players will fall into slumps.

With a positive mindset, you will see and seize the opportunities in any training condition or practice circumstance.

### A positive, opportunity-awaits mindset:

- **Improves preparation** – You are ready for anything. Adverse playing conditions, weather, and competition sites won’t determine how well you perform. Since you competed under those conditions in practice, you will feel confident in your abilities to perform under similar conditions.
- **Increases mental toughness** – Pushing yourself in challenging training sessions grows mental toughness. When you build your mental toughness muscles, you can flex those muscles in competitions and perform at your peak under pressure.
- **Gives you a mental edge** – When you are willing and motivated to do things that other athletes avoid, you will have rock-steady confidence and know you can overcome any challenge throughout a competition.

Pro peloton cyclist Mareille Meijering is in her second year in the pro peloton after many years of riding as an amateur. Meijering still recalls canceling training sessions in her amateur days due to inclement weather.

**MEIJERING**: *“Cancelling training sessions\]can no longer happen. As a professional, you know you will get better from it, so you do it whatever the conditions. You don’t need that little extra push – you just say I’m going to do this right now because it’s going to make me better.”*

When you don’t feel like training or don’t want to push during training sessions, think about what’s at stake.

Remind yourself how training will push you further along the path to your goals.

Remind yourself that you achieve more of your potential by taking advantage of the opportunities in front of you.

And remember, when you outwork or out-prepare your opponent, you gain a significant advantage when you compete against them.

When you lack the motivation to go or push yourself in training, write on your equipment or hand one phrase to remind you of your “why” or what you want to accomplish.

The phrase can be a goal time, placing, or ranking you want to achieve. Or you can use motivational keywords such as “mental edge” or “peak performance” to sustain your effort and focus.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)
- [Mindset Training During Layoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-stay-active-during-layoffs/)
- [Debunking Mental Training for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/debunking-mental-training-for-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)

**Published:** July 13, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/minset-for-success.jpg)

## Winning Mindset for Elite Athletes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Winning Mindset for Elite Athletes](#Winning_Mindset_for_Elite_Athletes)
    - [What is mindset?](#What_is_mindset)
    - [You can challenge your current mindset by challenging your beliefs:](#You_can_challenge_your_current_mindset_by_challenging_your_beliefs)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Have you ever wondered why some athletes succeed despite challenges and adversity while other athletes fall apart when encountering similar circumstances?

The difference between these two types of athletes is **mindset**.

A lot has been written on the topic of mindset. Mindset receives so much attention because of its profound impact on athletic achievement.

If your mindset does not align with your goals, you are at risk of not achieving your objectives.

Recently, a collegiate junior contacted us and shared his frustration with falling short of his athletic goals:

*“I set some big goals this year. I want to make an NCAA cut, but I feel like quitting every time I have a poor showing in a competition. My coach has told me all season long that I can achieve the cut, but sometimes I have doubts. How can I get over the hump and achieve my goals?”*

Ability, skillset, and physiology are not the biggest obstacles for athletes. The single most crucial factor for athletic achievement is your mindset.

Your mind can help you overcome physical challenges and reach your goals or prevent you from achieving your athletic potential.

### **What is mindset?**

Mindset is your overall attitude about your capabilities, capacity, and ability to achieve your desired goals.

Your chosen mindset **affects everything you do**, including how you approach challenges, deal with adversity, and how you train.

Unfortunately, many athletes have a limited mindset and think in black-and-white terms:

- “Since I didn’t achieve a personal best today, I will never achieve a personal best.”
- “Because I missed the cut, I will probably fall short of the cut in the next competition.”

With a limited mindset, you see your mistakes, weaknesses, and past failures and conclude you lack what it takes to succeed.

Since you cannot outperform your mindset, you must change your thinking.

Change requires tweaking how you see yourself, your athletic potential, and your ability to overcome adversity.

### You can challenge your current mindset by challenging your beliefs:

- “Is it true that I cannot achieve something today because I missed the mark yesterday?”
- “Have other athletes succeeded under similar circumstances?”
- “Is my potential really limited to what I did yesterday?”

Once you have reality-checked your beliefs, you can start forming a new reality that focuses on growth, progress, and process.

Masai Russell, a hurdler at the University of Kentucky, has a long list of athletic accomplishments. Russell set the NCAA 100m hurdles record with a 12.36 at the 2023 SEC Outdoor Track & Field Championships.

Still, Russell has a bigger goal she is working towards, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Russell’s attention to her competitive mindset has been transformational.

**RUSSELL**: *“The biggest transition has been this last year, just how much I’ve changed my life and who I am mentally. I’m understanding now that the mindset is very important as an athlete, and when you can take hold of that and capture how important your brain is towards your success, then I feel like there’s nothing that you can’t do. It’s been a transformation I’ve seen in myself.”*

All athletes experience challenges and difficulties. It’s inevitable.

Possessing a positive competitive mindset is having an unwavering belief that you will find a way, develop the skills, and improve technique.

You will take a risk, adjust your game plan, learn from both wins and losses, prepare wholly, and adapt to adverse circumstances to achieve your athletic goals.

Instead of asking yourself, “Why do I always fall short of my goals?” ask yourself, “How can I achieve my objectives?”

Then, devise three possible solutions and save them on your cell phone. Every time you check your social media, read your solutions first!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Defining Athletic Success on Your Terms** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/defining-athletic-success-on-your-terms/)
- [**How to Pros Use Visualization to Improve Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-pros-use-visualization-to-improve-success/)
- [**Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game of Sports, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

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### [How to Prevent Mental Mistakes During Competition ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-prevent-mental-mistakes-during-competition/)

**Published:** July 20, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Prevent Mental Mistakes During Competition ](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/mental-mistakes.jpg)

##  A mistake Versus a Mental Mistake

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [A mistake Versus a Mental Mistake](#A_mistake_Versus_a_Mental_Mistake)
    - [You can avoid mental mistakes by:](#You_can_avoid_mental_mistakes_by)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Mistakes are common in sports. Every athlete makes mistakes.

However, mental mistakes are avoidable. Mental mistakes are lapses in awareness and focus, sloppy play, laziness, and lack of effort.

Here are some examples of mental mistakes: In basketball, not getting back on defense and allowing the other team a breakaway basket.

In baseball, an infielder who lobs the ball to first base on a routine grounder letting the hitter beat out the throw for a single.

Or a golfer who takes a two-foot putt for granted and misses the cup.

Mental mistakes are often the difference between winning and losing.

Mental mistakes can throw off your rhythm, create momentum shifts, and lead to further mental mistakes.

### You can avoid mental mistakes by:

- Staying 100% immersed in the game
- Refocusing when you notice your attention drifting
- Controlling what you can control (effort, decision-making, focus)
- Keeping your emotions in check

To view the effects of mental mistakes, let’s examine an example from the 2023 WNBA season.

The New York Liberty had a 73-53 lead over the Phoenix Mercury late in the third quarter.

Then, the Liberty started to unravel due to making an unusual number of mental mistakes.

The Liberty’s defense made several undisciplined fouls. New York forward Kayla Thornton committed two flagrant fouls and was ejected from the game.

Lapses in coverage on the defensive end and poor offensive execution allowed the Sun back in the game. The Sun tied the game 90-90 with just over three minutes left.

The Liberty eventually won the game but could have easily lost due to their mental mistakes.

After the game, Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello commented on the team blowing the 20-point lead.

**BRONDELLO**: *“That’s a lack of discipline. That’s a little lack of focus. We’ve got to be better.”*

New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart highlighted the need to avoid mental mistakes and give consistent effort.

**STEWART**: *“Understanding in the WNBA, anything can happen. Whether you’re up 20 or down 20, if you continue to keep playing, you’ll be able to make it a game.”*

Avoiding mental mistakes is a matter of staying mentally engaged in the game and never taking anything for granted.

For athletes to produce under pressure, it is helpful to remember that you are 100 percent in control of your effort, decision-making, and focus. By keeping your head in the game, you will make fewer mistakes and avoid unnecessary losses.

Mental mistakes are avoidable with the right strategies in place. Verbal cues can help you stay mentally engaged during competitions.

You can use phrases such as “Stay in the game” or “Focus right now” during breaks in action to keep your head in the game.

Refocusing is another important skill… When you notice your attention drift during the game, try using the phrase “Right here, right now” to regain your focus.

Make sure you know exactly what to focus on when–we call these performance cues.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Mental Game Tips to Overcome Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-tips-to-overcome-mistakes/)
- [Top Mistakes Mental Game Coaches Make in 1st Session](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/establishing-yourself-as-a-mental-coach/)
- [How to Refocus After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Overcome “What-If” Thinking](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-what-if-thinking/)

**Published:** July 27, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Elite Athletes Develop Mental Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/develop-mental-skills.jpg)

## What is Your Biggest Distraction as an Athlete?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is Your Biggest Distraction as an Athlete?](#What_is_Your_Biggest_Distraction_as_an_Athlete)
    - [What To Focus On](#What_To_Focus_On)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

The list of potential distractions is exhausting:

- Noisy spectators
- Nagging injuries
- Trash-talking opponents
- Poor playing conditions
- Haters who try to drag you down
- Negative media attention
- Harsh opinions from others

The previous examples are external distractions or sources that originate outside of you. While external distractions are bothersome, they are not the most formidable challenge for athletes.

Internal distractions are much more destructive and difficult to manage, particularly the ‘what if’ trap.

‘What ifs’ are negative hypothetical situations that preoccupy your mind before, during, and after a competition, such as:

- What if I fail?
- What if I let down my coach, teammates, or family?
- What if I get injured again?
- What if I make a few mistakes and I’m benched?
- What if I miss the shot that would tie the game?
- What if I fall during my routine?
- What if I choke in the final minutes of the competition?

The problem is that ‘what ifs’ or hypothetical scenarios are future-based. When you dig deeper, you will notice your what-ifs are fears and worries about potential outcomes. The future is where anxiety resides.

However, the **present** moment is free from fear. The present moment establishes what needs to be done “now” and the best way to accomplish those tasks. Focusing on the present is the optimal mindset that fosters success and peak performance.

### What To Focus On

You can attain a present-moment focus by switching out ‘what if’ thoughts with **‘what now’** thoughts. ‘What now’ thoughts provide clear instructions or directions for achieving your objectives.

For example, a baseball relief pitcher who is trying to close a game with a one-run lead and the bases loaded might experience many internal distractions such as, “What if I blow the save,” “What if I am demoted because I can’t throw strikes” or “What if I let my team down again?”

Each of the previous thoughts is destructive and counterproductive. You can switch your thought process to instructive thoughts by asking, **“What now?”**

This question helps clarify your focus for the present moment. For instance, “Take a deep breath. Look for the signal from the catcher, “Okay, fastball, low, and away. Check the runners. Throw at the target.”

Asking yourself, “What now?” helps you quickly process your situation, decisively choose a course of action, then follow through. This simple method keeps you mentally engaged in the moment.

Indiana Fever center Aliyah Boston was the WNBA No. 1 overall pick in 2023. When playing, Boston has a “What Now” mentality and directs her attention only to the factors contributing to peak performance.

**BOSTON**: *“Greatness is just being true to who you are but also working hard to accomplish the goals. Every time I step on the court, I expect to be dominant. I go out there every game, and I’m just going to be who I am.”*

Hypothetical thinking traps you in an endless loop of negative thinking. When you shed this over thinking, you free your mind to focus on what to do and how to do it.

Get into the habit of asking yourself, “What now?” When you notice your mind fearing what might happen, you can refocus in the moment by shifting your thoughts from **‘What if’** to **‘What now’**.

One mindset rule to follow is always focus on what you want to do–make the shot–instead of thinking about what not to do (don’t miss or what if I miss?).

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Athletes Cope With Internal And External Distractions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-cope-with-internal-and-external-distractions/)
- [How to Deal with External Noise](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-external-noise/)
- [How to Develop a Clutch Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-develop-a-clutch-mindset/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

Athletes who lack total focus feel out of control and can’t get any momentum. Athletes with superior focus feel in control and ready to do battle with the competition.

Which mindset would you rather take into every competition – out of control or mentally prepared? You can **empower yourself to take action** now. I have the focusing strategies **to help you find the zone more often** and and stay in the zone!

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How to Break Free From Losing Streaks ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-break-free-from-losing-streaks/)

**Published:** August 3, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Break Free From Losing Streaks](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/end-a-losing-streak.jpg)

## What is Keeping You Stuck in A Losing Streak?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is Keeping You Stuck in A Losing Streak?](#What_is_Keeping_You_Stuck_in_A_Losing_Streak)
    - [You focus on thoughts during the competition, such as:](#You_focus_on_thoughts_during_the_competition_such_as)
    - [After a loss, you continue the negativity by saying:](#After_a_loss_you_continue_the_negativity_by_saying)
    - [Frustration is a sign that you feel like you are not meeting your expectations.](#Frustration_is_a_sign_that_you_feel_like_you_are_not_meeting_your_expectations)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

A slump or losing streak starts as nothing unusual. Every athlete and team occasionally experiences bad games or unproductive performances.

So, what turns a few bad games into a performance rut? What commonalities trap a player or team in a cycle of under performance?

If you can identify a common element to losing streaks, you could more easily **find a solution**, interrupt the loop, and break out of the slump.

Let’s look at what happens during a slump… Thoughts and expectations perpetuate losing streaks. You expect the worse.

### You focus on thoughts during the competition, such as:

- “Here we go again.”
- “Just when I thought things couldn’t get any worse.”
- “Another loss heading my way.”

### After a loss, you continue the negativity by saying:

- “I knew I wasn’t going to win.”
- “It doesn’t matter anyway. I’m already having a losing season.”
- “Chalk up one more in the loss column.”

You predict a loss, and then when you lose, you use the loss as evidence to support your pessimistic prediction.

In this example, losing isn’t the bad habit. The counterproductive habit is your negative thinking and expectations.

A **habit** is a consistent tendency or something you do often and regularly, sometimes without being aware. Since many of our habits are unconscious, it may be difficult to give up…especially bad habits.

You need to expose your unconscious and counterproductive thoughts to break or replace the bad habit.

When you become aware of how your habitual thoughts and expectations are hurting your performance, you can start consciously **replacing those thoughts** with positive, enhancing thoughts.

The Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League set the mark for the longest home-losing streak in North American pro sports.

The Elks lost 21 consecutive home games stretching back to Oct. 12, 2019. The Elks’ 21st loss was a shutout by the B.C. Lions, 27-0. In the game, Edmonton committed 13 penalties for 177 yards.

Elks quarterback Taylor Cornelius commented on the team’s frustration and hinted at an underlying expectation for negative results.

**CORNELIUS**: *“(Frustration) is at an all-time high right now. The first half, we get behind the sticks with penalties, it seemed like every drive it was something. And then to come out in the second half and still not put up any points for a second game in a row against these guys \[B.C. Lions\] is just crazy, man.”*

### Frustration is a sign that you feel like you are not meeting your expectations.

Identifying the warning signs of negative expectations and thoughts is half the battle of getting back on track.

Challenging your negative expectations or over generalizations is the **first step** in breaking free from losing streaks.

For example, when you become aware of the thought, “Here we go again… Another loss,” ask yourself, “Is this a reality? Am I doomed to be stuck in this rut long-term?”

Over generalizations and expectations can keep you stuck in a negative cycle of thinking your performances will not return to normal.

Free yourself from losing streaks and performance slumps by rationalizing the validity of your expectations and over generalizations.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Finishing Strong When Losing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/finishing-strong-when-losing/)
- [Mental Toughness Strategies: Coping With Losing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/metnal-toughness-strategies-and-losing/)
- [How to Overcome a Losing Streak in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-a-losing-streak-in-sports/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [Why Should I Work with a Mental Performance Coach? ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-should-i-work-with-a-mental-performance-coach/)

**Published:** August 10, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Why Should I Work with a Mental Performance Coach?](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/mental-performance-coaching-1.jpg)

## Put in Extra Work After Practice to Become the Best 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Put in Extra Work After Practice to Become the Best](#Put_in_Extra_Work_After_Practice_to_Become_the_Best)
    - [This is where a sports psychologist or mental performance coach can help.](#This_is_where_a_sports_psychologist_or_mental_performance_coach_can_help)
    - [Think of a challenging scenario that you can anticipate in your next competition. ](#Think_of_a_challenging_scenario_that_you_can_anticipate_in_your_next_competition)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

In sports, elite athletes often have unrivaled work ethics. We hear of Olympian athletes who start their training sessions at 5 a.m. or train between 4-6 hours daily.

Other athletes are stuck in a rut or hit a plateau. The common sentiment is, “I work so hard throughout the week. Yet my teammates, who I outwork in practice, perform better than me in competitions.”

While elite athletes dedicate and sacrifice much to attain peak physical conditioning, the key to their **success** is the hours of mental work behind the scenes.

Physical work and conditioning are straightforward. However, for many athletes, mental training is less understood.

### This is where a sports psychologist or mental performance coach can help.

Sports psychologists and mental performance coaches specialize in teaching/coaching athletes, teams, coaches, and parents specific **mental skills** to address athletes’ optimal performance, development, and well-being.

They are well-versed in interventions that optimize the mental and psychological factors that impact performance, such as building confidence, improving focus, setting realistic and challenging goals, managing emotions, dealing with disappointment, and getting the most out of your training.

Not only do mental skills improve athletic performance, but mental skills also benefit **other areas of life**, such as test taking, managing anxiety, communicating effectively, accomplishing more, overcoming adversity, and dealing with overwhelming emotions.

As for athletic performance, sports psychologists and trained mental performance coaches help you identify areas of performance that you may not clearly see.

Think of a competitive swimmer. A swimmer may understand stroke mechanics and training but not be able to identify mental aspects of racing, the reasons for not achieving their goal times, or dealing with grueling training sessions.

Often, athletes are too wrapped up in their circumstances to find solutions to their plateaus or mental blocks.

Top-ranked Iga Swiatek lost in the 2023 Wimbledon quarterfinals to Elina Svitolina. Swiatek sometimes appeared confident, but other times, she easily lost focus.

During a rain delay, Swiatek sought her coach’s advice to get back on track when the match resumed.

**SWIATEK**: “I wasn’t sure what I should focus on because I felt like I’m making pretty much the same mistakes, even though I tried to do better on some shots. I wanted some tips, what they think I should actually focus on. Sometimes when something is not working, it’s hard to find a reason because there are maybe a few reasons. When somebody is looking from the outside, it may be a little bit easier to analyze.”

You may recognize that you become anxious under pressure. A mental game coach can teach you how to cope with stress during a competition.

You may notice that you lack motivation during training sessions. A mental game coach can teach you the tools to **sustain your drive** throughout the ups and downs of training and competing.

You might be close to achieving your athletic goals. A mental game coach can teach you the mental skills that help you reach the next level.

It is important for you to see how mental factors might be holding you back from your potential.

### Think of a challenging scenario that you can anticipate in your next competition. 

Ask yourself, “How would a confident and mentally tough athlete respond to this challenge?”

Write your answer down then visualize yourself responding to your challenge with confidence and poise. By doing this, you are mentally preparing what you are going to do when the challenge arises.

Contact us to help rocket your mental toughness to new heights!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Approaches to Mental Coaching with Dr. Bob Winters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/approaches-to-mental-coaching-with-dr-bob-winters/)
- [Mental Coaching Programs For Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-coaching-programs-for-athletes/)
- [Is Mental Coaching A Quick Fix Before A Big Competition?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/is-mental-coaching-a-quick-fix-before-a-big-competition/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How Elite Athletes Move on From the Past](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-move-on-from-the-past/)

**Published:** August 17, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Elite Athletes Move on From the Past](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/moving-on-from-the-past.jpg)

## Do Mistakes and Losses Affect you Mentally?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do Mistakes and Losses Affect you Mentally?](#Do_Mistakes_and_Losses_Affect_you_Mentally)
    - [How to Let Go of Mistakes](#How_to_Let_Go_of_Mistakes)
    - [Focus on the Present Moment](#Focus_on_the_Present_Moment)
    - [Tip for Moving On From the Past:](#Tip_for_Moving_On_From_the_Past)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Are you still reliving a past game or a disappointing season?

Nothing hurts performance quite as much as reliving mistakes, bad games, or unfortunate results.

Focusing on yesterday or even the last minute interferes with your ability to pay attention to the present. When your attention is divided between the past and present, you neglect to put your full focus, energy, and effort into what you could do now to succeed.

Since you cannot turn back the clock and have a “redo,” you must focus on performing your best in the moment.

The reality of success is that **success only happens in the present.**

Let’s look at the following baseball example.

Suppose you were a baseball pitcher who missed the catcher’s target and instead threw the ball right over the heart of the plate. The hitter crushed the ball for a homerun to tie the game in the latter innings.

The next inning, you can’t stop thinking about your mistake. You fear giving up another run. Your lack of focus continually causes you to miss the strike zone, and you walk the first two hitters.

### How to Let Go of Mistakes

- You could let the mistake go, “There is nothing I can do about the last inning. I will focus on the pitch the catcher calls for and throw strikes.”
- The other solution is to understand what happened. “I dropped my arm angle,” and trust your ability to make the adjustment.

The Philadelphia Eagles lost the 2023 Super Bowl to the Kansas City Chiefs, 38-35. Rather than reliving the loss, the Eagles have committed to focus solely on the upcoming season.

It would be easy to ruminate about giving up sacks, losing a third-quarter lead, missed tackles, or penalties. However, the Eagles understand that their best chance of success is to stay focused on the current year.

Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown summed up the team’s mindset for the upcoming year.

BROWN: “It is unfortunate we didn’t win \[the Super Bowl\], but you gotta move on. You gotta get up off the mat. It takes courage to get off the mat and get back to work, to start over, but that’s where we are, and that’s what we’re doing.”

### Focus on the Present Moment

- Adjusting your mindset – See the past as a learning opportunity.
- Set a clear, specific objective – Knowing what to focus on in the moment or having clearly defined goals prevents you from reliving past mistakes.
- Devote yourself to the process – Commit yourself to putting in the mental and physical work needed to achieve your present objectives or goals.

Athletes on the road toward goal attainment have no time for the past. It is what you do NOW that helps you reach your goals.

### Tip for Moving On From the Past:

After every performance, write down two things you did well that day, two things that could have gone better, and how you are going to work on those the next practice.

Giving yourself a plan of action going forward helps you learn from the past mistakes and directs your focus on the future.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Overcome Haunting Past Performances](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-haunting-past-performances/)
- [Break Slumps: How to Get Past a Performance Slump](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/break-slumps-how-to-get-past-a-performance-slump/)
- [How to Recover From a Poor Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-recover-from-a-poor-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

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### [How Elite Athletes Combat Worry](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-combat-worry/)

**Published:** August 24, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Elite Athletes Combat Worry](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/combating-worry.jpg)

## Do Worrisome Thoughts Affect How you Perform?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do Worrisome Thoughts Affect How you Perform?](#Do_Worrisome_Thoughts_Affect_How_you_Perform)
    - [You experience worry in four ways:](#You_experience_worry_in_four_ways)
    - [Overcoming Negative Thoughts](#Overcoming_Negative_Thoughts)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you tend to worry about letting your teammates down or having a bad game?

Athletes who worry think too much about past poor **performances** or possible negative future results. Worrying about something that has yet to happen interferes with an athlete’s ability to perform at their peak.

For example, an athlete who tweaked their hamstring in their last competition may worry about a more significant injury in their next game.

These worrisome thoughts may cause the athlete to play cautiously. The player may hesitate to go for a 50-50 ball or slide tackling to break up a play.

Here’s another common scenario in basketball. A player who averages 20 points a game is worried about playing in his first high school playoff game.

Negative images consume him. He worries about missing shots and making mistakes during the game. He fears he will be the reason his team loses and fails to advance further in the playoffs.

So, instead of taking open shots, he passes the ball to his teammates. Throughout the game, he’s indecisive with the ball in his hands and turns over the ball frequently.

Worry is a mental block that prevents you from **performing** freely.

### You experience worry in four ways:

1. **Thoughts** – Worry causes you to ruminate about the past or future. Worrisome thoughts include, “What if I mess up like I did the last game? I just can’t get back on track. If I have another bad game, my teammates will blame me for losing.”
2. **Images** – When you worry, you will replay scenes in your mind of failing, losing, or making mistakes. You will see yourself failing again in the present.
3. **Emotions** – Worry increases the amount and intensity of performance-interfering emotions, such as fear, anxiety, frustration, anger, and doubt.
4. **Physical** – Worry manifests in various physical symptoms that detract from athletic performance, such as restlessness, upset stomach, muscle tightness, sluggishness, and racing heart rate.

Athletes who worry become frustrated when they miss a shot, make a mistake or start slow in a competition. They tend to have difficulty making quick, precise decisions.

They start competitions slowly or find it challenging to get into a rhythm. Athletes who worry are pessimistic about how they will **perform** and have an avoidance mindset.

You can use your thoughts, images, emotions, and physical sensations as an early detection system.

When you notice you are thinking about making mistakes, counter those negative thoughts with productive thoughts such as, “Stay focused. I’ve got this!”

When you see images of failing, try to visualize success or see yourself making a positive impact during the competition.

When you initially feel nervous or experience anxiety symptoms, you can take several deep breaths to quiet your mind and calm your body.

### Overcoming Negative Thoughts

The key to stop worrying is to get out of your own head. Elite athletes combat worry using several mental strategies such as deep breathing, mindfulness, muscle relaxation, or focusing on their game plan.

New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 draft, had a slow start to the 2023 WNBA season.

Instead of worrying about misses and bad games, Ionescu focuses on executing her role on the court and trusting her ability to score.

After a record-breaking **performance** in the 3-point competition during the WNBA All-Star weekend, Ionescu has been a model of consistency. After the All-Star break, Ionescu went on a tear making 50 3-pointers during a string of games.

**IONESCU**: “I’m just playing basketball. I’m just continuing to trust my shot and my shooting ability. I come out every game with the same mentality, and that is to do my job and to do it to the best of my ability.”

Worry is a thought, and you have the ability to change your thoughts. As your thoughts change, so will your emotions and your **performance**.

The first step in combating worry is to identify your triggers. That is, what circumstances or events cause you to worry?

When you create a list of triggers, you can then develop solutions for each trigger. This means how you will react with composure to each trigger.

For example, if you worry about missing shots (after missing), you want to think about and visualize the ball going into the basket and what that feels like.

Avoidance thinking will only lead to tentative play.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Why Athletes Worry too Much About What Others Think](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-athletes-worry-too-much-about-what-others-think/)
- [How to Develop a Clutch Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-develop-a-clutch-mindset/)
- [Sports Psychology Podcast: How to Stop Worrying About What Coach Thinks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sport-psychology-podcast-how-to-stop-worrying-about-what-coach-thinks/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How Elite Athletes Prove Themselves at the Next Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-prove-themselves-at-the-next-level/)

**Published:** August 31, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Elite Athletes Prove Themselves at the Next Level](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/how-to-prove-themselves.jpg)

## When the Top Dog is No Longer the Top Dog

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [When the Top Dog is No Longer the Top Dog](#When_the_Top_Dog_is_No_Longer_the_Top_Dog)
    - [You can modify your mindset through the following four steps:](#You_can_modify_your_mindset_through_the_following_four_steps)
    - [You can improve your mindset for sports by:](#You_can_improve_your_mindset_for_sports_by)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Many athletes have difficulty going from being one of the best on their team to a team where they are fighting for a roster spot or playing time.

**Transitioning** from youth competition to high school, high school to college, or college to the pros can be challenging.

Likewise, some athletes who were stars on their previous team feel intimidated when they try out for a more competitive team or when their team has an influx of talented athletes or recruits.

When you feel you have to prove yourself in a new competitive environment, you can feel your every move is being scrutinized. You become fearful of making that one big mistake that will hurt your chances of earning a spot on the team.

To add to your anxiety, you fear disappointing others, risking embarrassment, or assuming you are not talented.

This negative mindset puts you at a disadvantage, physically and mentally, among the athletes around you.

Turning around your mindset and perspective is crucial to maintain your confidence and motivation–and to maximize your performance.

### You can modify your mindset through the following four steps:

1. Understanding the situation – A realistic view of your circumstances will help you assess where you stand and what you need to accomplish to achieve your objective.
2. Being ready for your opportunity – Let nothing deter you from putting in the necessary work, developing your mental skills, working on your mechanics, and advancing your game.
3. Avoiding comparisons – Often, comparing yourself to players in front of you on the depth chart can hurt your confidence. Stay focused on improving your game and competing daily.
4. Making the most of your opportunity – When it’s your time, go for it. Don’t hold back!

Philadelphia Eagles undrafted rookie Eli Ricks was always one of the top players on his teams from youth to college. Ricks was a five-star recruit and 2020 All-SEC as a freshman at LSU.

After a year at LSU, Ricks transferred to Alabama, then declared for the 2023 NFL Draft, eventually signing with the Eagles as an undrafted free agent.

Ricks went from being on the top to having to prove himself at the professional level.

**RICKS**: *“This has been a very hard experience for me. I’m usually the first guy called on ever since I played football. Now, it’s totally the opposite. I gotta prove myself to be here. That’s where my focus has been, to shift my mindset.”*

Throughout the preseason, Ricks has kept the focus on himself, competing and improving his game.

**RICKS**: *“As an undrafted guy, you have to do a little bit extra to stand out. I feel I’ve done all I could to prove why I should belong (on this team).”*

Elite athletes have a steadfast focus on growth. They are not intimidated by talented athletes around them. Instead, they compete whether they are the top dog or fighting to become the top dog.

Proving yourself requires commitment and dedication more than raw talent. To maximize your ability, you want to develop a strong mental game.

### You can improve your mindset for sports by:

- Becoming a better team leader.
- Improving mental toughness and patience.
- Working on mental skills that give you a distinct advantage.
- Keeping your goals in mind and staying committed.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [The Mindset to Perform at the Next Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-the-next-level/)
- [Do You Have the Confidence to Play at the Next Level?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/golf-podcastdo-you-have-the-confidence-to-play-at-the-next-level/)
- [How Elite Athletes Develop Mental Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-develop-mental-skills/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How Elite Athletes Develop Mental Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-develop-mental-skills/)

**Published:** September 7, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Elite Athletes Develop Mental Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/develop-mental-skills.jpg)

## How Can You Take Your Game to the Next Level?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can You Take Your Game to the Next Level?](#How_Can_You_Take_Your_Game_to_the_Next_Level)
    - [Lloyd works with a performance coach, and the results are visible.](#Lloyd_works_with_a_performance_coach_and_the_results_are_visible)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Basketball players spend hours in the gym taking hundreds of shots.

Football players hit the weight room and bench, squat, and dead lift to build physical strength.

Golfers tweak their mechanics to find just the right swing.

Extra practice and technique refinement help build an athlete’s **confidence**.

Yet, athletes often neglect one ingredient that is necessary for next-level performance, and that is the development of **sound mental skills.**

Developing technique and improving your physiological capacities lays the foundation of performance, but mental work is the element that takes your game higher.

For example, spending extra time taking shots outside of basketball practice can help you feel more comfortable with your shot. However, physical training won’t prevent game-time frustration when you start a game missing your first ten shots.

But, the mental skills of refocusing, relaxation, and emotional management will help you mentally recover, eliminate distractions, and help you **rediscover your shot.**

All the weight training in the world will not help an offensive lineman who loses his cool after being flagged for several holding calls during a football game. Learning how to manage anger and communicate with his teammates will help him regain his poise and figure out a better blocking strategy.

Constantly tweaking mechanics will not help a golfer manage anxiety during a major tournament. However, learning to handle pressure and stay confident throughout a round will help the golfer perform at their peak.

Next-level performance requires next-level training, and that training starts with mental training. While many athletes fall well short of their potential, you can gain an advantage by making mental training an equal focal point along with your physical training.

Jewell Loyd was selected first overall by the Seattle Storm in 2015. Lloyd’s consistency through nine WNBA seasons is not an accident. Llyod has made a conscious effort to build a solid mental game, and that mental game has been a difference-maker.

### Lloyd works with a performance coach, and the results are visible.

**LLOYD**: *“I just wanted to unlock other aspects of my thinking and have a way to just figure out my thoughts, emotions and processing things. Talking with \[my performance coach\] allows me to stop whatever I’m doing for an hour a day to just think and be still, which is nice for someone like us. Athletes are always going, so it’s nice to reflect and really think about where you are and where you want to be and give yourself a little bit of grace.”*Llyod not only views her sessions as a benefit but also as a necessity.

Remember, practice helps with confidence, but **mental skills** help you avoid or deal with potential sticking points that can occur throughout a long, grueling season.

Think back to some of your best athletic performances. Could stronger confidence, improved focus, or ability to manage pressure have helped you perform even better or contributed to playing at that level throughout the season?

Even elite, skilled athletes work on their mental skills. Mental skills take you from good to great and from great to elite.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How To Apply Mental Game Skills to Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-apply-mental-game-skills-to-competition-2/)
- [The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)
- [Have Trust in Your Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How to Resolve Conflicts with Your Teammates and Coaches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-resolve-conflicts-with-your-teammates-and-coaches/)

**Published:** September 14, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Resolve Conflicts with Your Teammates and Coaches](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/conflicts-with-teammates.jpg)

## Have You Ever Had a Team Conflict?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Have You Ever Had a Team Conflict?](#Have_You_Ever_Had_a_Team_Conflict)
    - [Steps to consider when dealing with conflict:](#Steps_to_consider_when_dealing_with_conflict)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Team conflict can affect how you feel about your team, how much you enjoy your sport, and how intensely you pursue your goals.

Not only does conflict affect you, but it can also create tension with your teammates, coaches, family, and friends outside of sport.

Can you relate to the following scenario? You and your coach have a blowout at a competition. You are so angry with him that you don’t even want to attend practices. You feel he is being unfair and harsh to you.

When you go to practice, you try to avoid unnecessary contact with him. You pull back on your intensity in practice and just don’t care much about the season anymore. The conflict keeps festering to the point your teammates are picking sides. Now, the majority of your team is affected by the situation.

When considering this scenario, would you really want to give up accomplishing your goals, the team’s objectives, and your emotional well-being? Nothing good comes from allowing team conflict to go unresolved.

Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay and defensive consultant Matt Patricia had a contentious relationship when they were with the Detroit Lions in 2018.

Slay and former head coach Patricia had a significant falling out during the season. The relationship deteriorated so much that Slay requested a trade and was dealt to the Eagles.

After the Eagles hired Patricia, Slay knew they would need to resolve their issues for the team and himself to be their best on the field.

**SLAY**: *“We have been communicating, and we are just trying to win. That’s what it’s all about. We talked about what was going on back then, but I’m always here to get better. He said the same thing, saying he wanted to get better and learn different ways to coach and create a culture because he only knows one culture, so I understand where he came from. We talked man and man. I’m here to win, and he’s here to win, so we are helping each other.”*

Resolving conflict as it arises is always the best option rather than allowing it to percolate below the surface and intensify. Resolving conflict will clear your mind and let you be your best for yourself and your teammates.

### Steps to consider when dealing with conflict:

1\. Stay focused on your personal and team goals. Don’t let anyone or anything detract from focusing on and working towards your objective. Remind yourself that your goals are more important than the conflict.

Then, commit to attending every practice with a positive attitude, continue to work hard, and be a team player. Keep the bigger picture in mind and think about your long-term goals.

2\. Communicate respectfully. Your first step should be to talk through the conflict with the other person. It is essential to listen and maintain a calm tone of voice. Make sure to air out your differences in private and keep your teammates from having to choose sides.

3\. Channel your energy into action. You can use conflict to motivate yourself to be an even better athlete. While you can’t control another person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions, you can control how you respond.

4\. Rely on a healthy support system. First and foremost, your mental health should always be your primary concern. Use the resources available to you to work through your feelings. Learning and developing conflict-resolution skills can help you handle future conflicts.

Conflict within a team can be challenging. However, when dealing with conflict, think of what’s at stake: your mental health, goals, and the team’s objectives.

Resolving conflict helps you grow as a person and an athlete and enjoy your sport more.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Deal With Team Drama](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-team-drama/)
- [How Team Culture Impacts Team Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-team-culture-impacts-team-success/)
- [How Elite Athletes Move on From the Past](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-move-on-from-the-past/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Be Prepared When You Go in For a Starter ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/be-prepared-when-you-go-in-for-a-starter/)

**Published:** September 21, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Be Prepared When You Go in For a Starter
](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/coming-off-the-bench.jpg)

## Ever Been on a Team That Lost its Star Player? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Ever Been on a Team That Lost its Star Player?](#Ever_Been_on_a_Team_That_Lost_its_Star_Player)
    - [The Harsh Expectations of Living up to the Star Player](#The_Harsh_Expectations_of_Living_up_to_the_Star_Player)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Imagine how hard it was for the athlete who needed to fill in for that player.

Whether it is for a game or the season, filling in for the top player on your team is a formidable task.

Players rely heavily on their star teammates. They look to those elite players for **leadership** and often defer to them late in games. Sometimes, star players are viewed as irreplaceable.

When you are the one who competes in a star player’s absence, high expectations and pressure can weigh you down.

You believe you need to **BE** the player you are replacing. You feel your teammates are relying on you to lead and carry the team on your back.

When you try to be someone you are not, you are more likely to make uncharacteristic mistakes at critical moments in competitions.

However, you are on the team for a reason, and that is because of your skill set. You have to focus on **being yourself.** It is crucial for you to know your role and how you will approach performing that role to the best of your abilities.

The New York Jets selected quarterback Zach Wilson, who found himself having to substitute for one of the best players in the league, not an easy task for a player who under performed in his first two years in the NFL.

### The Harsh Expectations of Living up to the Star Player

Wilson, the second overall pick in 2021, completed only 55 percent of his passes with 15 touchdowns to 18 interceptions in his two years as a starter.

Due to Wilson’s lack of production, the Jets traded for four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers to lead the team to a potential Super Bowl. After Rodgers tore his Achilles tendon in the first game of the season, Wilson returned to being the starter.

Though Wilson is aware of the high expectations, he has simplified his approach to the game.

**WILSON**: *“I think it’s going out there, taking it one play at a time, trusting in my footwork, trusting in what the coaches have been talking about, and we’ll go from there.”*

Wilson also understands that he will make some mistakes like every athlete, but poise and refocusing will be the keys to managing pressure in the spotlight.

**WILSON**: *“You have to be able to say, ‘OK, I made a mistake, now what?’ I have to move on, and the team’s relying on me to do my part. For me, I know what I’m capable of, and I feel like I have the belief of the guys in this locker room, so how can we go out there every single day and piece it together one by one?”*

To be your best, ask yourself, “What do I bring to the table?” “What can I do to help my team be successful?” Focusing on your game will help you lessen the weight of expectations and pressure.

Knowing who you are as an athlete is crucial when substituting for a star teammate.

When competing, you should not think about trying to be the athlete you are replacing. You must play to **YOUR** strengths to be on top of **YOUR** game.

Always practice like a starter so when you get your chance you’ll be ready to take over.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Start Firing on All Cylinders](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-start-firing-on-all-cylinders/)
- [Athletes Who Are Labeled as Superstars](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-are-labeled-as-superstars/)
- [Are You Good Enough to Start on Your Team, but Don’t?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/are-you-good-enough-to-start-on-your-team-but-dont/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

---

### [How to Stop Overthinking in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stop-overthinking-in-competition/)

**Published:** September 28, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Stop Overthinking in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/overthinking.jpg)

## When Does Thinking Become Detrimental?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [When Does Thinking Become Detrimental?](#When_Does_Thinking_Become_Detrimental)
    - [How can you move from conscious thought to performance mode while competing?](#How_can_you_move_from_conscious_thought_to_performance_mode_while_competing)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Is it even possible to replicate good technique in competition without thinking?

Technique and mechanics are crucial for both confidence and success in sports. However, mechanics are quite detailed. There are a lot of moving parts.

For a baseball pitcher to throw strikes, there are many technical variables to consider, such as stance on the mound, wind-up, balance, timing, leg drive, hip rotation, arm angle, finger placement, grip pressure, release point, follow-through, velocity, etc.

Imagine pitching in the bottom of the ninth inning with the bases loaded while trying to think about every aspect that makes up sound mechanics. Even thinking about 1-2 components of mechanics is enough to interfere with throwing strikes.

The same is true for all sports. **Overthinking** interferes with mechanics, whether it’s a gymnast thinking through their floor routine, a basketball player trying to talk themselves through a free throw, or a golfer over thinking a putt.

When you give yourself too many verbal instructions, your thoughts interfere with fluid mechanics. In other words, under performance is inevitable when you try to process too much information while competing.

There is a time and place to think about mechanics, and that time is in practice. However, even at some moments in practice, switching from conscious thought to performance mode is beneficial.

### How can you move from conscious thought to performance mode while competing?

Since you cannot turn your thoughts off, the key is to redirect your focus. There are a number of mental strategies that can help you shift from conscious thought to performance mode, such as:

- Implementing verbal performance cues
- Using relaxation techniques or deep breathing
- Utilizing in-game routines
- Focusing on a focal point in the arena
- Building trusting skills in your training
- Staying grounded in the present

Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields was the 11th pick in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In his second season, Fields broke many quarterback rushing records, but he struggled as a passer, finishing 31st in the league in completion percentage.

During the 2023 training camp, the Bear’s coaching staff worked with Fields to improve his passing game. However, the work has not produced any significant improvement through the first three games of the season.

Fields stated he is overloaded with too much information and is **overthinking** rather than trusting his instincts.

**FIELDS**: *“\[The coaches\] are doing their job when they are giving me what to look at, but at the end of the day, I can’t be thinking about that when the game comes. I prepare myself throughout the week, and then when the game comes, it’s time to play free at that point. Thinking less and playing more.”*

**Overthinking** is a distraction that prevents you from performing like you have trained yourself to compete.

When you let go of the extra thinking, such as “Let it happen,” you can redirect your focus and get into the flow of the game–allowing you to focus more on tactics.

Use self-talk to help prompt you to switch from conscious over thinking mode to performance mode: “Play on auto pilot.”

When you notice yourself focusing on mechanics, redirect your attention by reciting your verbal cue.

When you make a mistake, avoid analyzing your game during competition and instead save it for after the game or the next practice.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Read and React Instead of Overthinking](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-read-and-react-instead-of-overthinking-your-performance/)
- [How to Refocus After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [How High Expectations Sabotage Athletes’ Mental Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-high-expectations-sabotage-athletes-mental-game/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Golf Confidence, Mental Toughness

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### [Defining Athletic Success on Your Terms ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/defining-athletic-success-on-your-terms/)

**Published:** October 5, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Defining Athletic Success on Your Terms](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-success.jpg)

## How To Define Your Athletic Success 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How To Define Your Athletic Success](#How_To_Define_Your_Athletic_Success)
    - [Goals are only effective and motivating when the goal is yours.](#Goals_are_only_effective_and_motivating_when_the_goal_is_yours)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Often, athletes allow other people (with good intentions) to define **success** for them.

For example, your parents may see success as earning a college scholarship, becoming a starter, or competing for a highly competitive team.

Likewise, your coach may see **success** as you achieving a national cut, having a top ranking, winning tournaments, or having league-leading statistics.

These success parameters may be positive, viable targets, but if you haven’t consciously chosen them as your goals, those targets will create distraction and anxiety.

When you compete to meet the **success** expectations of others, you will often create complications for yourself.

Trying to meet the high expectations of others creates immense, overwhelming pressure that can lead to burnout, injuries, underperformance, low confidence, and mental health issues.

Think for a moment about how much parental pressure affects an athlete’s performance and experience in sports.

Some parents want their children to earn an athletic scholarship to a D-I college. When the “DI” goal is repeatedly mentioned, you will feel increased pressure to perform.

To worsen matters, you will feel you must be perfect to achieve such a high standard. Every time you fall short, you will feel you are letting down your parents. The pressure starts to wear you down, and the once fun and exciting sport eventually seems like a chore.

### Goals are only effective and motivating when the goal is yours**.**

If you want to see how excessive expectations affect an athlete both inside and outside of sport, look no further than the career of gymnast Simone Biles.

Seven-time Olympic medalist Simone Biles started competing on the U.S. National Team in her early teens. Biles is one of the most decorated gymnasts in the sport’s history.

Unfortunately, with success comes higher expectations and increased pressure to win. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Biles withdrew from many events because she felt the ‘weight of the world’ on her shoulders.

Soon afterward, Biles took a hiatus from the sport to prioritize her mental health.

In 2023, Biles announced she was returning to competition at the U.S. Classic. Since her return to gymnastics, Biles has a new personal definition of success.

**BILES**: *“I think what success means to me is a little bit different than before because before, every one defined success for me, even if I had my own narrative that I wanted. So, now, it’s just showing up, being in a good head place, having fun out there, and whatever happens, happens.”*

Success should be **personal**. Sometimes, it is challenging to disregard the expectations of others. However, you should prioritize your needs and mental health, and that starts with identifying your desires and goals.

Start by assessing why you compete. What do you enjoy about sports that keeps you coming back to practice every day?

Next, think about what success means to you. Summarize your success definition in 1-2 sentences.

Next, set 1-2 long-term goals aligning with your definition of success.

Throughout the athletic season, read your success definition to stay focused on your goals.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [How to Pros Use Visualization to Improve Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-pros-use-visualization-to-improve-success/)
- [Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How to Use Mistakes to Improve Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-use-mistakes-to-improve-performance/)

**Published:** October 12, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Use Mistakes to Improve Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/improving-from-mistakes.jpg)

## Focus on Mistakes to Learn From Them 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Focus on Mistakes to Learn From Them](#Focus_on_Mistakes_to_Learn_From_Them)
    - [When you find and apply the feedback from a game or competition, you can actually improve your confidence.](#When_you_find_and_apply_the_feedback_from_a_game_or_competition_you_can_actually_improve_your_confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

There is a fine line between recognizing and dwelling on mistakes.

You need to be able to identify miscues or missed opportunities from a competition to learn from them.

The key is how long you think about those **mistakes**.

Let’s look at the following scenario. Bob G. is a freshman collegiate soccer player. In his first game as a starter, Bob shot wide on three scoring opportunities.

After the game, Bob was visibly angry and frustrated. All night, Bob constantly replayed his missed opportunities. Even during the following week of practice, he couldn’t shed the memories of his misses. He felt down throughout the week, and his confidence suffered as a result.

In this instance, Bob was so focused on his mistakes that he could not think about possible solutions. When you ruminate about mistakes, your confidence has nowhere to go but downward. With less confidence, you will usually under perform in your next game.

The better option is to see mistakes as learning opportunities. In this instance, Bob still recognizes his mistakes but quickly transitions to correcting them. He may still be mad about the missed scoring chances, but he is committed to correcting those mistakes before the next game.

For example, when Bob is thinking/ evaluating his **performance**, he could examine potential causes of shooting the ball wide: being more focused on the defenders closing on him or becoming anxious or fearful of missing in the first place.

After identifying the problem, Bob can create a plan to improve his focus, reaction time, or shot angles.

### When you find and apply the feedback from a game or competition, you can actually improve your confidence.

Learning from mistakes takes some introspection. You can gain feedback by asking yourself the following questions:

\* What was the situation?
\* What went wrong?
\* What is the lesson?
\* What can I do differently?
\* How will I work to improve this area?

When you follow a specific process for dealing with mistakes after each competition, you prioritize improvement, safeguard your confidence, and lessen the emotional impact of mistakes.

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell was drafted in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft and quickly proved he has what it takes to be an NFL starter.

Howell has steadily improved his game by learning from his mistakes to better prepare for the next football game.

**HOWELL**: *“I think you try to learn from the mistakes as quickly as possible, but at the same time, you don’t wanna overreact just because you have another game coming up that Sunday, like you said. So, there’s always some key points that you wanna focus on coming out of certain games, but then after you kind of get past that, you start working towards the next opponent.”*

Elite athletes are elite not because they don’t make mistakes but because they learn from them. In other words, elite athletes see mistakes as a vehicle to learn and grow as an athlete.

Using mistakes as a vehicle to grow your game requires a solution-based mindset.

A helpful strategy to find solutions is to create a feedback system that you can use after every competition to evaluate your **performance** objectively.

Try creating a standardized form to identify mistakes and then create a 3-step plan to improve your game to minimize mistakes in the next game.

An objective evaluation routine for each competition moves you away from dwelling on mistakes to finding solutions.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Benefit From Mistakes in Competition ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-benefit-from-mistakes-in-competition/)
- [3 Ways to Quickly Rebound from Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-quickly-rebound-from-mistakes/)
- [How to Stay Composed When You Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Golf Psychology, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How to Refocus After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)

**Published:** October 19, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Refocus After Making Mistakes
](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/refocus-after-mistakes.jpg)

## Do You Have a Short Memory for Mistakes? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do You Have a Short Memory for Mistakes?](#Do_You_Have_a_Short_Memory_for_Mistakes)
    - [To examine the differences between an overthinking mentality and a short-memory mentality, let’s refer to the following example: ](#To_examine_the_differences_between_an_overthinking_mentality_and_a_short-memory_mentality_lets_refer_to_the_following_example)
    - [Here’s the process:](#Heres_the_process)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

“Memory” refers to the length of time an athlete dwells on mistakes.

Some athletes have difficulty overcoming mistakes during a competition. They think about the mistake repeatedly, replaying the error in their mind.

The mistake becomes a distraction, taking the focus off performing in the present moment. When an athlete’s mind is stuck in the past, they tend to make more mistakes.

When you make mistakes in competition, you have the **choice between two mindsets**:

1\. **Overthinking Mentality** – When you highlight your mistakes in your mind, especially during critical moments of competition, your performance will rapidly decline.

In addition, internalizing your errors fosters the fear of making more mistakes during the competition. The fear of messing up intensifies anxiety and becomes a greater distraction.

2\. **Short-Memory Mentality** – Elite athletes have a short memory. In other words, elite athletes quickly reset their focus after a mistake and shift their focus to what is in front of them.

The mistake may serve as a corrective measure or provide insight for adjusting your game plan. In this way, a mistake provides feedback rather than distraction.

The ability to quickly refocus minimizes anxiety and immerses you in the game, so you are intuitively playing rather than thinking about play.

### To examine the differences between an overthinking mentality and a short-memory mentality, let’s refer to the following example: 

A basketball defender gets faked out on a crossover twice in a row to allow the opposing team to tie the game late in the fourth quarter. If he is over-focused on his defensive mistakes, he will feel tight, have slower reflexes, be distracted, and make poor decisions during the game.

Conversely, suppose the player recognizes what he can do differently and resets for the next play.

In that case, he will understand the tendencies of the opposing player, be more focused on their body rather than the ball, and be able to react quickly. In other words, he will play confidently and be more apt to trust his instincts.

Philadelphia Eagles kicker Jake Elliott, in his 7th NFL season, is one of the most consistent, reliable kickers in the league.

Elliott has never missed a playoff field goal in 15 attempts and is the 10th-most accurate kicker in NFL history among players with at least 100 attempts.

Eagles long-snapper Rick Lovato credits Elliot’s success to his ability to reset after each field goal attempt, no matter the outcome of the kick or the game situation.

**LOVATO**: *“His composure level has always been through the roof. You never see him shaking in his boots on the sideline. It’s always the same level from the first quarter to the fourth quarter. There’s no ups, there’s no downs…He’s got a fantastic goldfish-type mindset. You make it, move on to the next, and completely forget about the last one.”*

Letting go of mistakes is a mental skill that should be on top of your list of habits to develop….

When you move past mistakes quickly, you will be less likely to lose focus or make mental mistakes.

### Here’s the process:

**Step 1**: Start by being aware of your biggest triggers when you compete. What mistakes trigger you to become upset?

**Step 2**: How do you typically respond to these mistakes? What makes it so upsetting?

**Step 3**: How can you react differently to each trigger that will help you let it go and move on to the next play?

The more prepared you are to respond constructively to mistakes, the better chance you have of coping better with mistakes during competition.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Refocus in Competition After a Mistake](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-in-competition-after-a-mistake/)
- [How To Refocus Quickly When Distracted](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/refocus-quickly-when-distracted/)
- [Rebounding After a Bad Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/rebounding-after-a-bad-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How to Reach for Your Athletic Potential ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-for-your-athletic-potential/)

**Published:** October 26, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Reach for Your Athletic Potential
](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-potential.jpg)

### Are You on A Quest to be Your Best?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Are You on A Quest to be Your Best?](#Are_You_on_A_Quest_to_be_Your_Best)
- [Elite athletes push themselves to be their best by:](#Elite_athletes_push_themselves_to_be_their_best_by)
- [Despite her accolades and achievements, Wilson continues her quest to reach her potential.](#Despite_her_accolades_and_achievements_Wilson_continues_her_quest_to_reach_her_potential)
- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

 Every athlete **WANTS** to be the best athlete they can be, but not all athletes **DO** what is necessary to achieve their potential.

Intentions may set the tone for athletic improvement. However, athletic excellence requires intentional action.

An athlete who responded to one of our surveys sent the following question:

“My coach frequently tells me I have a lot of potential. What can I do to reach my potential?

First, you are on the right path because you are seeking ways to **improve**. Many athletes get stuck at a performance level because their wishes outweigh their actions.

These athletes attend practice instead of practicing with intention. They may have a vision of the athlete they want to be but do not set meaningful goals, have no action plan, nor do they search for ways to improve their game.

“Reaching your potential” can be restated as “reaching for your potential.” Reaching is an action; It’s striving to improve your game each day, whether that means extra practice, better nutrition, mental training, strength training, sustained focus in practice, etc.

You can work towards being the best athlete you can be by asking yourself one question each day: “What am I willing to do today to grow my game?”

### Elite athletes push themselves to be their best by:

- Setting clear, challenging goals.
- Developing an action plan with specific steps to follow to achieve their goals.
- Taking inventory of their skills and what mental and physical skills need improvement.
- Finding ways to consistently challenge themselves in practice.
- Mentally preparing before each training session and competition.
- Seeking feedback from coaches, teammates, and mental game coaches to identify weaknesses and areas for improvement.
- Objectively evaluating performances and learning from mistakes.
- Competing in practice to normalize the feeling of competitive pressure.
- Staying committed and motivated throughout the season, even when progress is slow or setbacks occur.
- Pushing themselves out of their comfort zones.

Becoming the best athlete you can be is a process that requires dedication, discipline, and commitment to physical, mental, and technical self-improvement.

Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson has accomplished much throughout her basketball career, including winning two consecutive WNBA Championship titles.

She earned the WNBA Finals MVP honors, receiving two regular season MVP awards, and being named Defensive Player of the Year twice.

### Despite her accolades and achievements, Wilson continues her quest to reach her potential.

**WILSON**: “*I just try my best to just to be a presence, to contest every shot… Everything I do, I’m going to try to be the greatest that I can be.”*

To **BE** your best, you must **DO** your best in your preparation, training, practices, and competitions.

Throughout your career, you will have many opportunities to grow your game. You need to commit to the quest!

Create a personal motto. Think of how you want to be remembered or what you want to accomplish as an athlete.

Post your motto in visible places. Write your motto on your equipment to motivate you throughout training sessions.

Remind yourself of your motto before competitions, in warm-up, and during tough moments in competition.

Be the best version of you instead of trying to be like someone else who you think is doing better than you!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**5 Ways to Maximize Your Athletic Potential**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-maximize-your-athletic-potential/)
- [**Mindset and How to Reach Your Athletic Potential**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-how-to-reach-your-athletic-potential/)
- [**8 Tips to Unlock Potential in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/8-tips-to-unlock-potential-in-sports/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How to Succeed Against the Odds in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-succeed-against-the-odds-in-sports/)

**Published:** November 2, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Succeed Against the Odds in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/succeed-against-odds.png)

## What is the “It Factor” That Pushes Athletes?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is the “It Factor” That Pushes Athletes?](#What_is_the_%E2%80%9CIt_Factor%E2%80%9D_That_Pushes_Athletes)
    - [Athletes who have a robust belief in themselves:](#Athletes_who_have_a_robust_belief_in_themselves)
    - [Tip for Building Unstoppable Self-Belief](#Tip_for_Building_Unstoppable_Self-Belief)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Athletes who triumph over their circumstances often do so because they refuse to see the odds as stacked against them.

If you acknowledge something as impossible, you won’t work to make your dream a reality.

For example, if a baseball pitcher thought it was impossible to become a starter, would he work to improve his accuracy, velocity, or spin rate?

Probably not, at least not to the level of becoming a reliable starter.

Likewise, if you believe you don’t have what it takes to compete at the college level because you only played one year on your high school varsity team, would you go all in to improve your skills, strength, flexibility, or mental skills?

Probably not.

Athletes who punctuate an unlikely story with a successful ending have a stout belief in themselves even when those around them doubt them.

### Athletes who have a robust belief in themselves:

- Are confident in their abilities or capacity to develop the skills necessary to perform at a high level.
- Have an optimistic outlook even in challenging situations and believe in their ability to overcome obstacles.
- Are resilient and bounce back quickly from setbacks. They view these setbacks as opportunities to grow their game and build mental toughness.
- Are determined, motivated, and committed to their athletic goals.
- Prepare diligently and are committed to the process of improvement.
- Have a purpose, which is to uncover as much of their potential as possible.
- Pay attention to their mental game and pursue all means necessary to be their best.
- Understand their strengths and weaknesses and work to turn their weaknesses into strengths.
- Are patient and willing to put in the work and remain patient in their pursuit of excellence.
- Have unwavering self-belief and are not deterred by setbacks.

Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent was a 2023 undrafted free agent. At the start of training camp, Bagent was at the bottom of the depth chart.

In his first start filling in for injured QB Justin Fields, Bagent completed 21-of-29 passes and led the Bears to a 30-12 victory against the Vegas Raiders.

Bagent is the only NFL quarterback to go from D-II QB to NFL starter in his rookie season.

Bears head coach Matt Eberflus credited Bagent’s desire and work ethic as keys to his success on the field.

**EBERFLUS**: “\[Bagent\] is the same guy as he was last week. He’s prepared, he’s focused, he’s got that determined look in his eye.”

Bears rookie wide receiver Tyler Scott also took notice of Bagent’s elite-level preparation.

**SCOTT**: “\[Bagent\] is always prepared. That’s one thing I noticed because I sit next to him sometimes on the plane. He’s always watching film, always looking over the \[playbook\] because \[you’re\] one play away.”

Self-belief is the necessary component to achieve your potential. Once you lay the foundation, you will be willing to persist in your efforts to realize your goals.

### Tip for Building Unstoppable Self-Belief

Building anything requires a goal and a plan. Spend time creating a clear vision of the athlete you want to become.

Ask yourself, “What must I do to reach my ultimate destination? What skills do I need to develop? How will I work on these skills? What level of intensity and focus will I need to put forth?”

Dedicating at least 15 minutes weekly to repeating this exercise will build undeniable self-belief.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [What Factors Contribute to Athletes’ Confidence?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-factors-contribute-to-athletes-confidence/)
- [Mental Well-Being in Athletics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-well-being-in-athletics/)
- [How to Assess Your Game for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-assess-your-game-for-more-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How to Respond After Being Benched](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-respond-after-being-benched/)

**Published:** November 10, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Respond After Being Benched](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/being-benched.png)

## Athletes Want to Compete, Play, or Start

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Athletes Want to Compete, Play, or Start](#Athletes_Want_to_Compete_Play_or_Start)
    - [You can take several positive actions to improve your situation:](#You_can_take_several_positive_actions_to_improve_your_situation)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

But what happens when the athlete is benched or replaced in the starting lineup?

Your **attitude** towards the situation will impact your response, motivation, and the message you send to your team.

If you act out or talk poorly about your coach, you will cause tension within the team. Your effort will be lacking during practices as you think, “Why should I push myself in practice if I’m not going to get much playing time?”

This negative response worsens your situation and hurts you and your team. The key is to maintain a positive attitude and respond constructively.

When you maintain a **positive attitude**, you will be motivated to work harder and smarter in practice. In addition, your positive attitude will demonstrate that you are a team player.

Having a team-first mentality will influence how your coach views you and, most likely, improve your situation.

How can you respond positively after being benched or your playing minutes reduced?

### You can take several positive actions to improve your situation:

- Take control of the situation by asking yourself, “What can I do differently to earn increased playing time. Instead of blaming the coach, ask your coach, “What can I do to help the team succeed?” This positive response will give you specific feedback to improve your game and show your coach you are a team-first athlete.
- Once you understand how to move forward, it’s time to get to work. Prove yourself to be a leader by having a positive attitude in practice, a strong work ethic, and being supportive of your teammates. If you need a boost, use your circumstances to motivate your efforts.
- Stay mentally engaged whether you are in practice, in a game, or on the bench. If you are on the sidelines, watch your teammates and analyze game situations. There is always an opportunity to learn and gain a deeper understanding of the game.

New England Patriots wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster has performed at a high level during his seven years in the NFL.

After being benched in the closing minutes of an early season game, Smith-Schuster chose to stay positive rather than becoming a team distraction.

Even during his stint on the sidelines, Smith-Schuster remained optimistic, confident in his abilities, and committed to being a team player.

**SMITH-SCHUSTER**: *“I’m not frustrated at all. I’ve been in this league way too long. When the time is called, the opportunity is called for me, I’ll be ready.”*

Being benched or losing playing time can be frustrating, but it can also motivate you to kick your performance up a notch. Within every situation is an opportunity to become a better and mentally tougher player.

The number of minutes you play is not fully under your control, but you have complete control over your attitude, work ethic, and demeanor.

When your playing minutes are reduced, identify what you can control…

List three ways to improve your game, contribute to the team, and sharpen your mental skills.

Maintain a strong focus on these three aspects. In addition, remind yourself that within adversity lies opportunity.

And always be mentally and physically ready when your number is called so you can perform well.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Athletes Can Cope With Getting Benched](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-cope-with-getting-benched/)
- [How to be an Impact Player from the Bench](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-an-impact-player-from-the-bench/)
- [Quarterback Jalen Hurts Ready to Compete, Even on the Bench](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/quarterback-jalen-hurts-ready-to-compete-even-on-the-bench/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete 

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)

**Published:** December 1, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confidence-in-competition.png)

### How Do Elite Athletes Compete with Confidence? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Do Elite Athletes Compete with Confidence?](#How_Do_Elite_Athletes_Compete_with_Confidence)
- [How do you take advantage of your strengths?](#How_do_you_take_advantage_of_your_strengths)
- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Elite athletes are most confident when they focus on their **strengths**.

Too often, athletes worry about making mistakes or messing up during a competition. These athletes fear that their weaknesses will be exposed and they will be the reason their team loses.

When you focus on your weaknesses, you approach the competition from a “try-not-to-lose” mindset. You will be consumed with worry that your focus will be divided between the competition and your fear of making mistakes.

For example, if a quarterback is worried about their lack of mobility when playing a team with an aggressive, blitzing defense, he will rush his passes and make bad decisions.

If he relied on his **strengths** or knack for reading defenses and his quick release, he would be better able to react to defensive schemes and make accurate throws.

Rather than worrying about trying to avoid sacks and potential turnovers, he would be focused on positive plays and pushing the ball downfield. Focusing on your **strengths** is the key to competing confidently for all athletes and teams.

Aggressive soccer teams should game plan around hustling for the ball and making timely tackles instead of fearing mistakes.

A hockey team whose strength is speed and finesse should focus on their style of play instead of retaliating against a team known for taking cheap shots.

### How do you take advantage of your strengths?

First, you must know your strengths. What do you do really well? What component of your game can you rely on from the start of a competition?

These strengths can be **physical, technical, or mental** (such as staying poised under pressure or mentally immersed in the game.)

Secondly, make your strengths stronger. Instead of always focusing on improving weaker aspects of your game, try to build upon your strengths. This doesn’t mean ignoring your weaknesses.

For example, if a 220lb running back has explosive power, he should still work hard in the weight room to become even stronger. He should still try to improve his footwork or speed, but the focus should be on taking advantage of his strengths.

Lastly, **create a game plan** around your strengths. In other words, how can you highlight your strengths in a competition to give yourself an edge?

Through the first 11 games of the 2023-24 NBA season, the Indiana Pacers are scoring more points per game than any other team in the league.

The Pacers implement into their game plan the strengths of guard Tyreses Haliburton, who likes to run, get out in the open floor and put pressure on defenses.

The Pacers’ focus on the strengths provides an identity and boosts the team’s overall confidence when competing.

**HALI BURTON**: *“It’s our biggest strength. Teams don’t want to run with us. Nobody. I don’t care who it is. Nobody wants to run with us. I’m relatively young, but that’s just the way I play basketball, and this organization has done a great job of allowing me to spread who I am throughout the organization and how I play throughout the organization. I want to be the best team in the league. But teams know when you play us, you have to have your track shoes ready. Like, you got to be ready to play us. So that’s a good identity to have.”*

Playing from a position of strength **builds confidence** and gives you a strategic advantage and mental edge before an athletic contest even begins.

Focusing on your strengths enhances confidence. To play to your strengths, you must identify and emphasize those physical, technical, and mental skills.

Review past performances and take note of the aspects of your game that you performed successfully. With some introspection, you will begin to see your strengths.

After you identify your strengths, create a 3-step plan for making your strengths even stronger, either in practice, physical training, or through mental training.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [The Confidence to Perform New Skills in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-confidence-to-perform-new-skills-in-competition/)
- [How To Help Athletes Who’s Confidence Wavers in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-help-athletes-whos-confidence-wavers-in-competition/)
- [How to Have Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-have-stable-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How to Benefit From Mistakes in Competition ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-benefit-from-mistakes-in-competition/)

**Published:** December 8, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Tuning Out Negativity](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Negativity.jpg)

## How do You Handle Game-Ending Mistakes?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do You Handle Game-Ending Mistakes?](#How_do_You_Handle_Game-Ending_Mistakes)
    - [Misconceptions](#Misconceptions)
    - [To move on from mistakes, elite athletes:](#To_move_on_from_mistakes_elite_athletes)
    - [Tip for Benefiting from Competition Mistakes](#Tip_for_Benefiting_from_Competition_Mistakes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Your **confidence** is directly impacted by how you handle mistakes, misses, and miscues.

All athletes make mistakes. How you respond after the mistake matters most.

For example, if you miss the last shot of a basketball game, will you let that miss cause you to pass up shots late in future games?

If you drop a pass in the endzone with time running out on the game clock, will you become fearful and anxious when the ball is thrown to you later in the season?

If you received a red card late in the second half of a match, would you become overly cautious in the next game?

No matter the situation, mistakes should not have a negative impact on future performances.

Athletes who have difficulty letting go of mistakes share several misconceptions…

### Misconceptions

\* **Misconception #1**: Mistakes are always negative – While mistakes can impact the result of a competition, mistakes provide valuable opportunities for learning and improving an athlete’s performance in future contests.

\* **Misconception #2:** Mistakes are a sign of a lack of talent – Making mistakes doesn’t mean you lack talent or are not a good athlete. Mistakes are universal.

You need to learn how to respond or perform differently in similar circumstances to lift your game.

\* **Misconception #3:** Avoiding mistakes is the key to success – Trying to avoid mistakes leads to athletes playing it safe and not pushing the limits of their potential.

To be successful, you must take calculated risks, aggressively compete, and hustle throughout a competition.

\* **Misconception #4:** Peak performance is the absence of mistakes – The pursuit of perfection leads to anxious play, not peak performance.

Peak performance requires confidence in your ability to produce, given the athletic circumstances.

How do elite athletes move on quickly from mistakes or losses?

Elite athletes are not immune from mistakes; they just learned how to use those miscues to benefit their growth as athletes.

### To move on from mistakes, elite athletes:

- Process the circumstances or what happened during a competition.
- Learn how to prevent, avoid, or rectify these areas of their game if necessary.
- Look to develop mental, physical, technical, or tactical skills to improve their performance when facing similar circumstances.

Most importantly, elite athletes don’t measure or assign significance to mistakes.

In other words, they believe there are no “big” mistakes. Mistakes are just mistakes or opportunities to learn and grow their game.

New England veteran and wide receiver Matthew Slater has made his share of mistakes during his career. However, Slater’s perspective on mistakes has kept him moving forward throughout his career.

**SLATER**: “Failure is a part of your career as a professional. You’re gonna have high moments, and you’re gonna have lows. You hope to have more highs and lows, but the most important thing is that you learn from it and grow and try to improve.”

Growing as an athlete is a process. You are a better athlete than ten years ago because you learned from your mistakes. The key to confidence and peak performance is to stay committed to the “growth process.”

### Tip for Benefiting from Competition Mistakes

One way to ensure a positive response to mistakes is to ask yourself, “Does this response help or hurt my confidence and performance?”

This question allows you to examine the potential effects of your response. Once you see how your response impacts your game, you can choose an alternative way to process those mistakes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Coping With Teammates Who Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-teammates-who-make-mistakes/)
- [How to Overcome Adversity for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)
- [3 Ways to Quickly Rebound from Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-quickly-rebound-from-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

---

### [How to Build Confidence Like the Pros](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-confidence-like-the-pros/)

**Published:** December 21, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Build Confidence Like the Pros](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/building-confidence.png)

## How can you be a confident starter when you rarely start?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How can you be a confident starter when you rarely start?](#How_can_you_be_a_confident_starter_when_you_rarely_start)
    - [The Big 3: Three Factors that Build Confidence](#The_Big_3_Three_Factors_that_Build_Confidence)
    - [Lock’s confidence is the combination of many sources:](#Locks_confidence_is_the_combination_of_many_sources)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Many athletes become highly anxious after their coach tells them they will start the next game when they have played minimal minutes.

The fear of making mistakes or costing your team the game is overwhelming when you view yourself as the “weak link.”

Imagine the following scenario.

You haven’t played much all season and are relatively “comfortable” in a bench role. You feel little to no pressure since you believe the chance of playing significant minutes is low.

As the regular season winds down and your team is in the playoff hunt, one of the starters suffers an injury, and you are called upon to start the next competition. The anxiety is overwhelming.

Doubts, fear, and negative self-talk take residence in your mind. You imagine yourself messing up repeatedly, and your confidence is low. Your preparation and performance will suffer when your mind is preoccupied with negativity and distraction.

So, what can you do to gain belief in your abilities? What can you draw on to feel confident?

Many factors feed confidence, and recent playing experience is just one factor.

### The Big 3: Three Factors that Build Confidence

The following three sources provide athletes with a significant boost in confidence:

1. Preparation – Not only does preparation allow you to build familiarity with potential game circumstances, but it also helps you build your skills and fosters mental readiness.
2. Learning from Mistakes – When you learn from mistakes, understand the circumstances that lead to those errors, and take corrective action, you build confidence in your ability to make better decisions and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
3. Drawing on past successes – Focusing on successes, strengths, and positive attributes naturally boosts confidence.

In the middle of the 2023 NFL season, Seattle Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock was called upon to make his first start since 2021.

With Seattle battling for a playoff spot, Lock is confident in his abilities to get the job done.

**LOCK**: *“I can still go out there and do it. It’s been a long time since I’ve started a game. I’m confident in my legs, confident in the deep ball, confident in just dropping back and living in the pocket. Confident that I’m an NFL quarterback. I can take that away and take that into next week if I do get the chance.”*

### Lock’s confidence is the combination of many sources:

- His physical abilities (strong arm, mobility and accuracy).
- His NFL experience (five years in the NFL with 22 starts).
- His preparation (Lock mentally and physically prepares for each game as if he is going to play).
- His past successes (Lock gains confidence from his accomplishments in the past, which fuels his motivation and clarifies his focus).

Diversifying your confidence portfolio involves drawing confidence from many different sources. This diversification helps keep your confidence high through a wide range of circumstances.

You have to invest in your confidence to reap the benefits.

Confidence takes commitment and action to build. Dedicate ten minutes before bedtime to review past successes or the day’s small victories to boost your confidence.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Coping With Teammates Who Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-teammates-who-make-mistakes/)
- [How to Overcome Adversity for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)
- [3 Ways to Quickly Rebound from Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-quickly-rebound-from-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [Managing Athletic Injuries ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-athletic-injuries/)

**Published:** December 28, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Managing Athletic Injuries](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-injuries.jpg)

## Injuries Impacting you Mentally and Physically in the Past?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Injuries Impacting you Mentally and Physically in the Past?](#Injuries_Impacting_you_Mentally_and_Physically_in_the_Past)
    - [An injured athlete’s world can be bogged down by “What Ifs.”](#An_injured_athletes_world_can_be_bogged_down_by_%E2%80%9CWhat_Ifs%E2%80%9D)
    - [How do you bounce back from a sports injury?](#How_do_you_bounce_back_from_a_sports_injury)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

The physical pain of injury and rehab are difficult, but the mental impact of injury is much more challenging.

The physical side of injury (physical pain, discomfort, potential surgery, rehab, and re-conditioning) is undoubtedly extremely difficult.

However, injured athletes experience several emotional and mental challenges, including the mental management of pain, being on the sidelines, loss of identity, and dealing with feelings of isolation.

### An injured athlete’s world can be bogged down by “What Ifs.”

- What if I lose my role on the team?
- What if I’m replaced as a starter?
- What if I won’t fully heal?
- What if I can’t finish out the season?
- What if I don’t heal in time for the playoffs?
- What if I re-injure myself?
- What if I can’t play anymore?
- What if I lose out on a college scholarship?

“What Ifs” are conditional statements that trap many injured athletes in negativity and hopelessness. Not only do these statements affect your emotional state, they can interfere with the recovery process.

Pessimistic thinking increases stress and anxiety and elevates stress hormones within the body, interfering with the body’s ability to heal.

In addition, when the injured athlete returns to competition, high stress levels cause a “bracing effect,” where increased muscle tension can lead to re-injury.

Consciously choosing a positive mindset will flip the script and dramatically improve your chances of a quick and successful recovery from injury.

A positive mindset is where you focus on a successful and speedy recovery rather than negative “what ifs.”

Every athlete will experience an initial adverse reaction to injury, but moving forward from injury requires that you process your circumstances and then focus on your mental and physical recovery one day at a time.

### How do you bounce back from a sports injury?

The first step in bouncing back is to process your emotions. The sooner you can work through your intense emotions, the quicker you can move forward.

The next step is to evaluate the severity of the injury with a doctor, physical therapist, or athletic trainer.

Afterward, create a rehabilitation plan, including how you will work on building your mental toughness. Each week, assess your progress and adjust your plan as necessary.

Each of these steps helps you focus on solutions or positive action. The goal is to maintain a positive attitude and a sense of control throughout the recovery process to return to competition physically and mentally stronger.

Late in the 2023 NFL season, Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zach Cunningham suffered a hamstring injury and watched from the sidelines as the San Francisco 49ers dominated the Eagles, 42-19.

After the game, Cunningham talked about how difficult it was to be injured but stated he was focused on supporting his teammates and rehabbing his injury.

**CUNNINGHAM**: “It was really tough. I mean, having to sit and watch from the sidelines, it’s always hard having to sit out anyway…. It sucked a lot, man. You gotta focus on the stuff that you can control. I was out there trying to help where I could as far as anything I saw out there on the field. That and working on getting back. That’s my main focus.”

Focusing on what you can control, such as the recovery process, and supporting your teammates is empowering. Focusing on what you can do helps you maintain a positive perspective and can improve your mental and physical recovery.

Focus on what you can control. Setting goals to maintain a positive and productive focus is important when injured.

Set three athletic or rehab goals each day, such as 15 minutes of visualization, maintaining a positive attitude during rehab, discussing game strategy with your coach, or strength training.

Setting goals helps you move forward and build mental toughness along the way.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Coping With Teammates Who Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-teammates-who-make-mistakes/)
- [How to Overcome Adversity for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)
- [3 Ways to Quickly Rebound from Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-quickly-rebound-from-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Injury in Sports, Injury Recovery Articles for Athletes

---

### [What is Excellence in Sports? ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-is-excellence-in-sports/)

**Published:** January 4, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![What is Excellence in Sports? ](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/excellence-in-sports.jpg)

## What does “setting the standard” mean in sports?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What does “setting the standard” mean in sports?](#What_does_%E2%80%9Csetting_the_standard%E2%80%9D_mean_in_sports)
    - [When you set a standard of excellence, you take pride in your preparation.](#When_you_set_a_standard_of_excellence_you_take_pride_in_your_preparation)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Setting a high standard refers to establishing a level of quality, expectation, or performance.

Some teams set winning as the standard. Often, teams with a high expectation of winning adopt the credo, “Championship or Bust.”

While winning may be the goal, defining success in those narrow terms is problematic. For one, when you narrowly focus on wins, titles, and championships, competitive pressure increases to maintain the standard.

Under those conditions, some players become hyper-nervous and make more mistakes and bad decisions. Sometimes, setting an excessive winning standard leads to underperformance and losses.

A more advantageous standard to set is a standard of **excellence**. Committing to excellence is more than just showing up at a game and trying to win.

When you have a standard of **excellence**, you commit to preparing and working to win every moment in practices and competitions.

### When you set a standard of excellence, you take pride in your preparation.

- You show up on time for practice and are mentally and physically ready to get to work.
- You strive to be your best by challenging yourself and stepping outside your comfort zone.
- You commit to continuously hone your mental, physical, and technical skills to improve your overall performance and contribution to your team.
- You are consistent with your effort and focus.
- You are willing to go the extra yard to maximize your potential.
- You hold yourself accountable for your attitude, words, and actions.

The standard of winning is based on results, and you are not in total control of the outcome of a competition.

The standard of **excellence** is steeped in action. Focusing on excellence puts the onus on you to maintain a high standard regarding your attitude, effort, focus, and preparation.

Maintaining a standard of excellence is the secret weapon that gives you an edge over your competition.

When you take advantage of every opportunity to raise your game, you enter competitions with the utmost confidence in your ability to perform at a high level.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts stated that teammate wide receiver A.J. Brown has set a standard of **excellence** for himself and his team.

That standard of excellence is a guiding principle for each team member and sets the tone for how the team approaches practice and games.

**HURTS**: “I know \[Brown’s\] a competitive person. He demands a lot out of himself, and that goes for anyone else in the locker room. Like I said, he has a standard for himself, and he’s not compromising that. He’s demanding that of himself, and he wants that out of his teammates, as well, and everyone around him.”

Setting a high standard is not about perfection but continuous growth and improvement. Setting a standard of excellence is challenging yourself to be your best continually.

Setting a standard of **excellence** builds a competitive mindset, fosters peak performance, and leads to greater personal and professional satisfaction and success.

First, define what excellence means to you. Next, write a summary statement that outlines the standard for you in personal terms.

Finally, post your standard of excellence statement in a visible place to remind yourself how to achieve athletic excellence.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Coping With Teammates Who Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-teammates-who-make-mistakes/)
- [How to Overcome Adversity for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)
- [3 Ways to Quickly Rebound from Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-quickly-rebound-from-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-under-pressure-with-confidence/)

**Published:** January 11, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/perform-with-confidence.jpg)

## How Confident are you When the Game is in Your Hands?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Confident are you When the Game is in Your Hands?](#How_Confident_are_you_When_the_Game_is_in_Your_Hands)
    - [Why are athletes more confident in some situations rather than others?](#Why_are_athletes_more_confident_in_some_situations_rather_than_others)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete Audio & Workbook](#The_Confident_Athlete_Audio_Workbook)

Confidence is situational. An athlete’s confidence level can vary depending on their situation or circumstances.

That is, you can feel confident in your ability to successfully perform in some circumstances and not others.

For example, a basketball player may feel more confident when shooting free throws early in a basketball game than when on the foul line in the fourth quarter of a tight game…

A gymnast may have more confidence in her ability to nail her routine on the balance beam in a dual meet than when competing in conference championships…

A tennis player may feel more confident closing out a match against a similarly ranked opponent than when competing against a rival…

### Why are athletes more confident in some situations rather than others?

Athletes are more confident when they feel comfortable competing in certain situations.

When an athlete is comfortable in their situation, they feel less pressure and anxiety. They are more focused on the task at hand and not distracted by counter-productive thoughts such as, “What if I miss this shot,” “What if I cause my team to lose,” or “What if I mess up and embarrass myself?”

How do you develop confidence and a level of comfort to successfully perform in crucial moments of a competition?

Fear of the unknown creates anxiety. When an athlete is inexperienced in a certain circumstance, they feel uncomfortable and anxious.

You gain comfort by making an unknown known. In other words, the more you expose yourself to pressure situations, the better you will perform in similar circumstances in the future.

Two ways of gaining more experience in competing under pressure are to practice under pressure and visualize yourself successfully performing in critical moments of a competition.

You can practice under pressure by creating pressure scenarios during training sessions, for example, being on the free throw line late in a tied game. You can have your teammates yelling as if you were playing in front of rowdy fans.

You can also visualize specific scenarios in detail, such as “seeing” yourself sinking two free throws late in a game or hitting a buzzer-beater in a playoff game.

Both strategies help you develop a sense of comfort and confidence while competing under pressure.

Take, for example, University of Iowa basketball player Caitlin Clark. Clark nailed a shot from near half-court at the buzzer to help the fourth-ranked Hawkeyes survive an upset against Michigan State.

Clark was confident as she released the ball, not just because she’s a talented shooter.

**CLARK**: *“We practice those plays every single day in practice. That’s what we run every single time: Get Hannah the ball, let me create with some space. They contested it pretty well, honestly, so lucky it went down.”*

There is no luck when it comes to performing under pressure. Peak performance under pressure is a trainable mental skill that any athlete can add to their mental game repertoire.

Spend 5-10 minutes each day, practicing under pressure. Make this a fun routine challenge with your teammates after a training session.

Remember, repetition and comfort translates to confidence.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Build Confidence Like the Pros](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-confidence-like-the-pros/)
- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete Audio & Workbook](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/upcp_product/the-confident-athlete-audio-workbook/)

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

The Confident Athlete Audio & Workbook “The Confident Athlete” teaches athletes how to how to have proactive self-confidence when they step on the playing field, court, track, or course. Available on CD and digital download. For athletes ages 13 and older. Learn how to overcome doubt and other confidence killers. Our most popular program!

*“The Confident Athlete”* audio and workbook program helps you feel confident before you walk onto the field, track or court. You discover how to have stable and proactive confidence so you can think like a champion.

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Athletic Pressure, Confidence for Athletes, Confidence in Sports Tips

---

### [How to Succeed as an Athlete Despite Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-succeed-as-an-athlete-despite-adversity/)

**Published:** January 11, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/overcoming-adversity-1.jpg)

## The damaging power behind the phrase ‘to make matters worse’?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The damaging power behind the phrase ‘to make matters worse’?](#The_damaging_power_behind_the_phrase_%E2%80%98to_make_matters_worse)
    - [When you build a case against yourself, you actually do “make matters worse.”](#When_you_build_a_case_against_yourself_you_actually_do_%E2%80%9Cmake_matters_worse%E2%80%9D)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

The phrase “**to make matters worse**” further catastrophizes an adverse event.

Many sports announcers use the phrase to describe an athlete’s or team’s worsening prospects or condition throughout a season.

Many athletes are stuck in the habit of catastrophizing. They often highlight every bad break, unlucky event, and poor showing as a pre-established excuse for a future loss.

For example, “Our team has been battling nagging injuries all year, and one of our best players is out. The last two games we played were our worst games of the year. To make matters worse, we have to play against the top team in the league to advance to the playoffs.”

### When you build a case against yourself, you actually do “**make matters worse**.”

Not only does catastrophizing hurt your confidence, it keeps you focused on the problem.

To break out of the catastrophizing mode, you need to focus on solutions. It is important to remember that while you may not be able to change your current circumstances, you do have control over your reactions and actions.

When adversity strikes, focus on your game plan, preparation, and approach for the next competition.

This solution-based focus is empowering. A **“focus on solutions”** mindset gives you a sense of control and confidence to move forward and compete to the best of your abilities.

The Philadelphia Eagles started the 2023-24 season with a 10-1 record and appeared to be one of the NFL’s best teams.

Over the final month and a half, the Eagles proceeded to fall apart and ended their regular season by losing five of their last six games.

The Eagles finished the season with a record of 11-6. Instead of winning the NFC East crown, the Eagles had to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a Wild Card playoff game on the road.

Instead of focusing on the team’s struggles and injuries, Eagles defensive lineman Fletcher Cox chose to remain **optimistic** and focus on **solutions**.

When asked about the team’s declining performance, Cox said he is focused on “**what’s next**” rather than “**what has happened in the past**.”

COX: “We get to go out and play again next week. You’re speaking on our last six weeks, and I’m speaking on the weekend we have coming up ahead of us. I want to think positive and not negative. It’s a whole brand new season for everybody; no matter what went on in the past, no matter what went on.”

What happened last week doesn’t matter; even what happened yesterday is past. The most important thing you can do is to work towards success **TODAY**.

Instead of tallying up the negatives against you, look for evidence that supports your success, such as, “No one can outwork me. I can gain a significant edge with my mental game. I think quick on my feet.”

When you look for evidence that supports your chances of success, you will prepare and compete with more confidence.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Build Confidence Like the Pros](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-confidence-like-the-pros/)
- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/upcp_product/the-confident-athlete-audio-workbook/)

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [The Optimal Athletic Mindset for Rematches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-optimal-athletic-mindset-for-rematches/)

**Published:** January 25, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![The Optimal Athletic Mindset for Rematches](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/optimal-athletic-mindset.jpg)

## What mindset do you take into a rematch?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What mindset do you take into a rematch?](#What_mindset_do_you_take_into_a_rematch)
    - [The optimal approach for rematches is to:](#The_optimal_approach_for_rematches_is_to)
    - [Your mindset is how you approach a competition. ](#Your_mindset_is_how_you_approach_a_competition)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Many athletes who won the previous game against an opponent feel confident heading into a rematch. They think, “Since we won the previous matchup, we can win the upcoming game.”

Previous success adds to an athlete’s confidence. However, let’s turn the situation around.

What if you lost the previous head-to-head competition? Are you just as confident as if you won? How about if the opposing team dominated the last matchup? Would you believe you had a high chance of winning?

Ultimately, the question is, “If success builds confidence, does that mean previous losses detract from confidence?” While it might sound logical, that conclusion is faulty.

Sure, if you see the opposing team as better because they beat you earlier in the season, then yes, you will lose some confidence in your ability to pull off a victory.

And, if you believe you will lose, you won’t put in the work to improve, push yourself, prepare, and game plan for victory.

### The optimal approach for rematches is to:

- Learn from the past while realizing that you are not the same athlete or team that you were earlier in the season or even a month ago.
- Focus on the game, not the “rematch.” It’s essential to stay focused on the game itself and not allow the past loss or rematch hype to distract you from your performance.
- Maintain your composure, especially early in the competition. Rematches can be emotionally charged, so staying composed and mentally locked in is crucial.
- Embrace the challenge. Prepare mentally and physically to your fullest and embrace the opportunity to showcase your skills and mental toughness.

During the 2023 regular season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost to the Philadelphia Eagles 25-11. The Eagles dominated most of the game with 472 yards of offense and 27 first downs while holding Tampa Bay quarterback Baker Mayfield to a season-low 174 passing yards.

Fast forward to the playoffs, and the Buccaneers were set to face the Eagles in a rematch to advance to the Divisional round.

Tampa Bay wideout Chris Godwin commented on the Buccaneers’ **mindset** and confidence heading into the game due to their growth and preparation throughout the season.

GODWIN: *“We’ve evolved so much. Just going through an entire season, figuring out who you are, going through the ups and downs of a season, you know, things have changed in a lot of ways. So, I’m excited about the opportunity, but at the same time, they’ve changed as well. Surely, they’re going to come into the game with a different game plan and plan to attack us in a different way. Obviously, we have already played this year, but things will be different this week.”*

A rematch is just another match, just another game. Always remember what matters most is not who you are playing but what you bring to the competition.

### Your mindset is how you approach a competition. 

Just as you carefully create a game plan for an opponent, consciously choose your **mindset** by asking yourself, “How do I want to approach this competition? How do I want to compete? How do I want to respond to challenging circumstances during the competition?”

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [Mindset Tips for Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-playoffs/)
- [Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital "The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)")

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

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### [How to Create a Roadmap for Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-create-a-roadmap-for-mental-toughness/)

**Published:** March 21, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Create a Roadmap for Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/mental-toughness-3.jpg)

## Is mental toughness really “a thing”? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Is mental toughness really “a thing”?](#Is_mental_toughness_really_%E2%80%9Ca_thing%E2%80%9D)
    - [Simply stated, mental toughness is the “It” factor.](#Simply_stated_mental_toughness_is_the_%E2%80%9CIt%E2%80%9D_factor)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Mental Game Coaching for Athletes](#Mental_Game_Coaching_for_Athletes)

Mental **toughness** is constantly mentioned in interviews after sporting events.

For example, in practically every basketball conference tournament or NCAA tournament game, a commentator, coach, or player talks about mental **toughness**.

But does mental **toughness** really exist? If so, what is it, and how can it be developed?

### Simply stated, mental toughness is the “It” factor.

Mental **toughness** allows basketball teams to battle back when down 15 points at halftime in an elimination tournament.

Mental **toughness** is the strength of mind that causes a gymnast to get back on the beam after falling during a routine to finish strong.

Mental **toughness** is the impetus that causes a golfer to continue grinding when playing without their “A” game.

Mental **toughness** is the inner drive to compete and not give up, not give in, no matter the circumstances an athlete faces.

So, yeah, mental **toughness** is “**a thing**.”

The next question is, “Where does mental **toughness** come from?” Is mental **toughness** a genetic trait, or can it be developed through training?

To prove that mental **toughness** is not genetic, let’s look at two points.

For one, have you ever heard of an 8-year-old being described as mentally tough? Probably not!

Secondly, if mental **toughness** were a genetic trait, you would see it in an athlete from the moment they started competing as a youth and continue through their high school, college, and professional athletic careers.

Now that the genetic theory has been dismantled, let’s examine how an athlete can build mental **toughness**.

Mental toughness starts with a desire and decision to battle and then a commitment to mental training. Like any skill development, mental **toughness** is developed through training.

One method of building mental **toughness** is training with a Mental Game Coach. A mental game coach helps athletes compete confidently, perform under pressure, control their focus during competitions, improve pre-game preparation, manage competitive emotions, and rebound from setbacks.

Working with a mental game coach gives athletes the tools, strategies, and foundation to compete with mental **toughness**.

After you learn the basics of mental **toughness**, you can apply those skills in practice.

For example, the University of Alabama men’s basketball team suffered a frustrating loss in the 2024 SEC Tournament to the University of Florida, 102-88. The loss was the third time in their last eight games that the Crimson Tide has allowed an opponent to score 100-plus points.

Senior guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr. feels it’s more of a mental **toughness** issue than a lack of physical ability for Alabama.

**WRIGHTSELL**: *“We have to be mentally **tough** to not make a shot and still be able to get a stop on defense, that’s the biggest thing on defense right now. Coach Oats has been challenging us on the mental **toughness**. He came in here after the game \[and told us\] if we want to win this thing, we’ve got to be mentally tough. In March Madness, you’ll probably see a different team – mentally **tough**, mentally better.”*

If you want to compete with mental toughness, you need to train your mental **toughness**. The more committed you are to its training, the greater the benefit.

Have a mental toughness training plan. What resources will you utilize? How will you implement mental **toughness** skills into training sessions?

Contact us if you want help with a mental **toughness** plan.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Succeed as an Athlete Despite Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-succeed-as-an-athlete-despite-adversity/)
- [How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-under-pressure-with-confidence/)
- [What is Excellence in Sports? ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-is-excellence-in-sports/)

---

### [Mental Game Coaching for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/ "Mental Game Coaching for Athletes")

Tired of under performing in competition? Frustrated with not performing up to your potential? Get expert **mental performance coaching** with our certified mental game coaching from anywhere in the world via video conference.

You or your athletes learn how to improve mental skills we teach to pro athletes and perform more consistently in competition.

[Learn More](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How Great Athletes Become Great](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-great-athletes-become-great/)

**Published:** March 7, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Great Athletes Become Great](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/become-a-great-athlete.jpg)

## Have you ever wondered how great athletes became great?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Have you ever wondered how great athletes became great?](#Have_you_ever_wondered_how_great_athletes_became_great)
    - [Athletic excellence is a matter of maximizing your potential by:](#Athletic_excellence_is_a_matter_of_maximizing_your_potential_by)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

What elevated Patrick Mahomes, Lebron James, Alex Morgan, Sabrina Ionescu, and Novak Djokovic to **great** heights?

Each of those athletes is talented. However, there are plenty of examples of gifted athletes who never lived up to their potential. In fact, every year during the NFL draft, commentators talk about highly drafted players that were busts at the next level.

What causes some athletes to maximize their potential while other athletes never entirely live up to expectations?

**Great** players adopt a mentality of continually looking for ways to improve their game. Elite athletes consistently play at a high level because they constantly look for little ways to improve their game.

**Great** athletes set the goal of athletic excellence. While they acknowledge their successes, **great** players are not satisfied with yesterday’s accomplishments.

After each game, they evaluate their performance. They examine what they can do differently or better. They elevate their game by working smarter and committing to developing elite mental skills.

Standing pat is never an option for peak performers. They understand their competition is working hard to take over their spot, and if they are to stay on top, they need to continually raise their game.

### Athletic excellence is a matter of maximizing your potential by:

- Defining what success means to you and setting specific, achievable stretch goals.
- Committing to being better today than you were yesterday.
- Embracing change by looking for ways to improve.
- Challenging yourself daily in training.
- Seeking constructive feedback from coaches.
- Identifying areas for improvement and creating a detailed action plan.
- Taking care of your physical and mental well-being.
- Prioritizing the development of your mental game and building mental toughness.
- Striking a balance between sport and life to prevent burnout and maintain long-term success.

In the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup, Mexico upset USWNT 2-0. The defeat was just the second loss to Mexico in 43 matches. In addition, the loss was the US squad’s first on home turf against Concacaf opposition since 2000, breaking an unbeaten streak of 80 games (78 wins, two draws).

After the game, USWNT forward Alex Morgan commented that the world of soccer is advancing, and if the US is to stay on top, it will need to continue finding ways to improve.

**MORGAN**: “Not only Concacaf, but the whole world is continuing to raise its level. It’s helping with all the leagues around the world, and Mexico is definitely a product of that with their league. Concacaf is not what it was 14 years ago when we had our last loss to Mexico.”

Adopting an athletic excellence mindset means being committed to preparing, training, and competing at the highest level to unlock your athletic potential.

After each week, grade your practice and competition performance. Ask yourself, “What can I do mentally, physically, or technically to raise my game one percent?”

If you commit to improving one percent each week, you will accomplish much more than you think you can achieve today.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [Mindset Tips for Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-playoffs/)
- [Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)

---

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital "The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)")

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Great Athlete, Mental Focus, Mental Game Coaching Professional

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### [How this Self-Talk Hurts Athletic Potential ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-self-talk-hurts-athletic-potential/)

**Published:** February 29, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How this Self-Talk Hurts Athletic Potential
](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/self-talk.jpg)

## What is the most challenging obstacle that holds an athlete back from their potential?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is the most challenging obstacle that holds an athlete back from their potential?](#What_is_the_most_challenging_obstacle_that_holds_an_athlete_back_from_their_potential)
    - [Examples of self-limiting statements include:](#Examples_of_self-limiting_statements_include)
    - [To counter this misconception, let’s look at two points.](#To_counter_this_misconception_lets_look_at_two_points)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete(Digital Download)](#The_Confident_AthleteDigital_Download)

You can probably rattle off a list of obstacles, such as lack of confidence, access to training, inexperienced coaching, genetics, fear of failure, etc.

Of course, genetics, training, and coaching are important. However, you can find resources to overcome these challenges, improve your conditioning, and build technical skills.

Likewise, skills such as confidence, focus, and overcoming fear can be improved upon through mental training.

The most significant blockage to maximum achievement is the limits you place on yourself.

Self-limits usually are expressed as “I can’t” or “I won’t” statements.

### Examples of self-limiting statements include:

- “I can’t beat that opponent.”
- “I won’t make the varsity team.”
- “I won’t make a national cut this year.”
- “I can’t make this shot.”
- “I won’t be a starter this season.”

“If you tell yourself you “can’t” or “won’t” enough times, you will accomplish less than you are capable of achieving. In other words, you will convince yourself you cannot succeed.

If you believe you cannot succeed, you won’t be motivated to improve your skills, push yourself in practice, develop your mental skills, or find ways outside of training to lift your game to the next level.

Instead of talking yourself out of succeeding, you can open yourself to your athletic potential by convincing yourself of your capacity to succeed.

Here is the sticking point for most athletes. Many athletes feel they are lying when they tell themselves they can achieve considerable accomplishments.

### To counter this misconception, let’s look at two points.

1. Most of the time, limited beliefs are not steeped in reality. In most cases, “I can” is more realistic than “I can’t.” In other words, your potential is much more realistic than you think.
2. Telling yourself “you can” is not lying to yourself but the foundation of building a case for yourself. You can build confidence by using evidence-based statements, such as, “I’ve been working hard. My technique has improved over the last two months. I crushed it in my last competition. If I work on my leg strength and endurance, I can finish competitions stronger.”

San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama made NBA history by posting a ‘5×5’ stat line, where players record at least five points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks in a single game.

Though the Spurs lost to the Los Angeles Lakers, Wembanyama finished with 27 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists, 5 steals, and 5 blocks in just 31 minutes. At the midway point of the 2023-24 season, Wembanyama leads all rookies in points, rebounds, steals, and blocks.

After the game, Lebron James commented on Wembanyama’s potential.

JAMES: *“He \[Wembanyama\] doesn’t have a ceiling. He can do whatever he wants to do in his career. It seems like he enjoys the game. It seems he puts the work in, just from the outside looking in.”*

When you recognize you have much more to achieve, working towards your potential becomes a challenge worthy of the effort.

After you set an athletic goal, brainstorm evidence supporting that you will achieve your goals. Remember, beliefs can either limit or expand your athletic ceiling.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How to Respond After Being Benched](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-respond-after-being-benched/)
- [How to Succeed Against the Odds in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-succeed-against-the-odds-in-sports/)

---

### [The Confident Athlete(Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital "The Confident Athlete(Digital Download)")

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“*The Confident Athlete*” audio and workbook program helps you feel confident before you walk onto the field, track or court. You discover how to have stable and proactive confidence so you can think like a champion.

*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”*
~Radek Sefcik, Peak Performance Sports Customer

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence for Athletes, Self Criticism in Sports, Self-Belief in Sports

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### [How Top Coaches Help Athletes Succeed](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-top-coaches-help-athletes-succeed/)

**Published:** February 22, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Top Coaches Help Athletes Succeed](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/coaching-styles.png)

## What coaching style best contributes to an athlete’s success?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What coaching style best contributes to an athlete’s success?](#What_coaching_style_best_contributes_to_an_athletes_success)
    - [For example, the following coaching styles tend to demotivate and hinder an athlete’s development:](#For_example_the_following_coaching_styles_tend_to_demotivate_and_hinder_an_athletes_development)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Relaxed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Due to the various personalities of coaches and athletes, team dynamics, and individual learning styles, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to coaching.

However, certain coaching styles can, without a doubt, hurt a player’s athletic and personal development.

### For example, the following coaching styles tend to demotivate and hinder an athlete’s development:

1. **Authoritarian** – Coaches who employ a dictatorial style stifle an athlete’s growth, creativity, and enthusiasm. In addition, coaches who frequently yell can push an athlete out of sports altogether.
2. **Overly Critical** – Coaches who consistently criticize their athletes cause them to fear making mistakes, which undermines athletes’ confidence, self-esteem, and motivation.
3. **Overemphasis on Winning** – Coaches who only focus on winning place excessive pressure and stress on their athletes. This style of coaching often neglects the development of fundamental skills.
4. **Unrealistic Expectations** – Coaches who set unrealistic performance expectations for their athletes set their players up for failure. Playing under excessive expectations creates a stressful environment, causing athletes to consistently under perform.

While coaching styles vary, there are several common characteristics among positive and effective coaches.

\* **Positive Leadership** – Effective coaches lead by example. These coaches walk the walk and demonstrate positive behavior.

\* **Open Communication** – Effective coaches communicate with their athletes, conveying messages, feedback, and instruction in a clear and non-threatening manner. In addition, effective coaches listen to the needs and concerns of their athletes.

\* **Motivation** – Successful coaches know how to motivate their athletes to give their best effort, both in practice and during competitions.

Effective coaches motivate their athletes by setting challenging but achievable training goals, providing positive reinforcement, and fostering a healthy competitive environment within the team.

\* **Supportive** – Effective coaches recognize their athlete’s individual needs and challenges. In addition, effective coaches genuinely care about their athletes’ well-being on and off the field.

\* **Flexibility** – Effective coaches understand each athlete is unique. Athletes have different learning styles. Effective coaches adjust their coaching style to meet the needs of their athletes.

During the 2023-24 season, NBA guard Buddy Hield averaged 12 points per game with the Indiana Pacers. After being traded midseason to the Philadelphia Sixers, Hield has averaged 22.3 points per game in his first four games.

Hield has credited Sixers head coach Nick Nurse for the offensive freedom to be himself without worrying about making mistakes or looking over his shoulder.

**HIELD**: *“A coach that knows his players and gives you an opportunity to play and have fun, and you play free. He’s not down your neck, breathing, and shouting at you, and playing for coaches like that is fun. He makes the game so enjoyable to play in, and he gives you confidence.”*

*“He lifts you up and playing for a coach like that, you don’t have nothing to worry about like ‘Oh, I wonder what coach is thinking, or is that a good shot or bad shot?’ He wants you to be aggressive, and that’s fun.”*

Effective coaching requires a balance between firmness, encouragement, healthy feedback, and a positive team culture.

When coaches adapt to meet the diverse needs of their athletes, they foster their athlete’s development, create a positive learning environment, build team cohesiveness, and improve the team’s overall performance.

Examine your coaching style. Just as you identify areas your athletes can improve, select two areas of your coaching that you can develop to become a more effective coach.

As you improve, so will your athletes and your team’s performance.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Resolve Conflicts with Your Teammates and Coaches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-resolve-conflicts-with-your-teammates-and-coaches/)
- [Why Should I Work with a Mental Performance Coach? ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-should-i-work-with-a-mental-performance-coach/)
- [Distracting Parents Who Coach from the Side – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/distracting-parents-who-coach-from-the-sideline/)

---

### [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital "The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)")

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Athlete Expectations, Coaching, Coaching in Sports

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### [Lessons from Mahomes Winning Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/lessons-from-mahomes-winning-mindset/)

**Published:** February 15, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Lessons from Mahomes Winning Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/winning-mindset.jpg)

## Why do some athletes seem to have a winning mindset when games extend into overtime?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Why do some athletes seem to have a winning mindset when games extend into overtime?](#Why_do_some_athletes_seem_to_have_a_winning_mindset_when_games_extend_into_overtime)
    - [Mahomes had a singular mindset during overtime, and that was to make plays and win the game.](#Mahomes_had_a_singular_mindset_during_overtime_and_that_was_to_make_plays_and_win_the_game)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Is it possible to change your mindset, or is an athlete’s mindset primarily genetic?

You can probably run off several athletes’ names who just seem to perform at a higher level during overtime. Athletes like LeBron James, Patrick Mahomes, Breanna Stewart, and Alex Ovechkin seem to play their best when the game is on the line.

How did these elite athletes craft a mindset that gives themselves and their teams a mental advantage in overtime games?

First, clutch athletes understand that mindsets are chosen and developed. When athletes recognize that mindsets are not biological but buildable, they can seek strategies to perform better under pressure.

Next, clutch athletes focus on what they want to happen. Athletes who under perform in overtime try to avoid making mistakes. Since they fear making costly mistakes, they become anxious and uptight, so they play it safe.

In contrast, clutch athletes focus on making plays. They are excited, focused, and aggressive during overtime. They are confident in their ability to perform, enabling them to take calculated risks and go for the win.

Finally, clutch athletes quickly forget mistakes and missed opportunities. What happened yesterday or past games no longer matters to them, nor does it change how aggressively they will compete in their next game.

When you develop an optimal overtime mindset, you will feel prepared and confident to compete during overtime. In addition, your mind will be focused on making plays instead of making mistakes.

The Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl LVIII by beating the San Francisco 49ers 25-22 in overtime. Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes was named Super Bowl MVP for his clutch play when the game was on the line.

In overtime, Mahomes led the Chiefs 75 yards down the field, converting on fourth-and-1 and third-and-1 for the winning drive.

### Mahomes had a singular mindset during overtime, and that was to make plays and win the game.

**MAHOMES**: *“Our mindset was: Go win the game right here. Once we got that ball — we fell short in regulation. We’re not going to do that again. We’re going to go out there and win the game.”*

Notice that Mahomes was focused on what he wanted to do, “Go out there and win the game.”

Performing in overtime is no different than competing during regulation time. It is your mindset that is the difference-maker.

Becoming a peak performer in overtime is within reach for you if you dedicate time and effort to building the right mindset.

Think about athletes who perform at their peak in clutch moments. Identify 3-5 characteristics that exemplify how these clutch athletes perform (for example, composed, highly confident, mentally tough, aggressive, energetic, etc.).

Next, create a mental training plan for how you will work on these skills in practice and at home. If you are committed, you will take advantage of the available resources to become a clutch performer.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [Jimmy Walker’s Winning Mindset at PGA](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/jimmy-walkers-winning-mindset-at-pga/)
- [Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)

---

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence for Athletes, Mental Toughness, Mindset in Sports, Winning Mindset

---

### [How to Grow From Post-Season Evaluations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-from-post-season-evaluations/)

**Published:** February 8, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Get The Most Out of Your Off Season](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/post-season-evaluations.jpg)

## What do you do after you finish a season where you fell short?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What do you do after you finish a season where you fell short?](#What_do_you_do_after_you_finish_a_season_where_you_fell_short)
    - [Living up to your own Expectations](#Living_up_to_your_own_Expectations)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Relaxed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Do you try to forget the season and put it out of your mind?

Each year, athletes and teams set their sights on an end-of-the-year target.

However, not all athletic goals are achieved. Things don’t always go as planned. Adversity strikes. Circumstances change.

After an unfulfilled season, many athletes are left to feel they are not talented or don’t have what it takes to succeed.

Without an objective, end-of-the-year evaluation, you will haphazardly proceed to the following season without understanding what happened or what needs to change to achieve your future goals.

The first step towards a successful season is to process the previous season and the circumstances that contributed to falling short of your goals:

- Was the goal realistic? In other words, was the goal achievable relative to the length of the season?
- Were there circumstances beyond your control, such as injury or illness, that affected your ability to train?
- What can you do differently in the upcoming season? What skills do you need to develop? Did your mental game help or hinder your performance?
- What role did your effort and focus play in your level of performance? How can you stay motivated for more extended periods of time? How will you hold yourself accountable?

Evaluations must be objective to be effective. In other words, you should search not just for the negatives but also the positive parts of the season and things you did well.

Your successes help keep you confident and can give you insight into strategies that worked throughout the season.

### Living up to your own Expectations

After the Boston Celtics lost the 2023 Conference Finals to the Atlanta Hawks, Jayson Tatum took a hard look at his play throughout the season.

Tatum is a 5-time NBA All-Star and the second-longest tenured player on the roster. Despite Tatum’s personal success, the team’s last five seasons ended in heartbreak.

Since the goal has always been to win a championship, Tatum spent time in the off-season thinking about what he could do better or differently to help the Celtics win an NBA Championship.

During the off-season, Tatum worked out with teammate Jaylen Brown, rehabbed a nagging injury, talked with previous Boston champions, and put on 12 pounds of muscle to improve his performance.

**TATUM**: *“Whatever we’ve done has been great. But it hasn’t been enough. So, from myself going down the line, everybody’s got to sacrifice or be willing to do more. … because we haven’t accomplished what we’re trying to do.”*

There is no defeat in Tatum’s tone. Tatum has taken the feedback from the past season, made adjustments to his game, and then recommitted his efforts to the current season.

Past athletic performances and your assessment often hold the keys to unlocking success in the present.

What is the definition of insanity? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result!

Every past game, competition, and season has valuable information to use for learning and growth.

The key to evaluating past performances is an objective assessment without the negative self-judgments.

What is the lesson that can help you improve next season? And what do you need to improve or change in practice?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Get The Most Out of Your Off Season](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-off-season/)
- [What is Excellence in Sports? ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-is-excellence-in-sports/)
- [Overcome the Imposter Syndrome](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcome-the-imposter-syndrome/)

---

### [The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-relaxed-athlete-digital "The Relaxed Athlete (Digital Download)")

![The Relaxed Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/relaxed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Relaxed Athlete” audio and workbook program teaches you mental strategies to develop a focused and confident pregame routine for a poised and relaxed mindset. Learn how to get your mind right by overcoming pregame anxiety and worry.

*“By far, **The Confident Athlete Series** is the most powerful tool I’ve used to perform my best. The simple and easy to use program has helped me take my game to the next level.”*

~Shaun Burrell, professional surfer

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports, Off-Season Mindset

---

### [The Mental Game Challenges of Injuries in Youth Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mental-game-challenges-of-injuries-in-youth-sports/)

**Published:** March 28, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Carter Hogg, a 20-year-old college football player and inventor of a neck guard that aims to help athletes avoid injuries, discusses the fear of getting injured and the challenges of coming back after an injury.

**Listen to learn more!!**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [Athletes Who Make Comparisons](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-make-comparisons/)
- [Athletes Who Make Comparisons to Competitors](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-make-comparisons-to-competitors/)
- [Athletes Who Intimidate Themselves Before Competing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-intimidate-themselves-before-competing/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[LEARN MORE](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts

**Tags:** Injuries in Sports, Injury Recovery Articles for Athletes, Mental Toughness

---

### [Mind Over Matter: Crafting a Winning Mental Game for Upset Victories](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mind-over-matter-crafting-a-winning-mental-game-for-upset-victories/)

**Published:** March 28, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mind Over Matter: Crafting a Winning Mental Game for Upset Victories](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/winning-mindset-1.jpg)

## What is the most significant mental factor that helps athletes pull off the upset?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is the most significant mental factor that helps athletes pull off the upset?](#What_is_the_most_significant_mental_factor_that_helps_athletes_pull_off_the_upset)
    - [How can an athlete build belief?](#How_can_an_athlete_build_belief)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Competing against a significantly higher-ranked opponent or a team with a better record is not just a physical challenge but also a **mental** challenge.

The main **mental** ingredient in upset victories is belief. By belief, I’m not just talking about pie-in-the-sky belief, but belief steeped in reality.

The first step in understanding belief is to know the effect of a lack of belief.

Athletes who lack belief constantly experience doubts such as “How can we beat them? That team is undefeated!” or “How is victory even possible when that athlete is ranked No. 1?

When a team or athlete doesn’t believe they have a chance for victory, their preparation, confidence, effort, and focus will fall significantly below 100 percent. After all, why would an athlete be fully committed if they believe a loss is a certainty?

### How can an athlete build belief?

To build belief, you need a mixture of work, effort, preparation, confidence, positive self-talk, and **mental** toughness:

- **Work** – Developing your **mental** and technical skills to their fullest helps build trust in your ability to compete.
- **Effort**—When you put maximum effort into training sessions, you know you can produce the same level of effort in competitions.
- **Preparation** – Out-preparing your opponent, **mentally** and physically, gives you a significant edge heading into the competition.
- **Confidence** – To beat the best, you must have the confidence you can compete on their level.
- **Self-Talk** – Belief requires sending yourself positive messages that enhance performance, competitiveness, and production.
- **Mental** **Toughness** – You need to build your **mental** toughness to the point that you know you can overcome any adversity that comes your way.

Building belief is the first step in athletic success.

During the 2024 March Madness NCAA tournament, No. 14 Oakland University upset No. 3 seed Kentucky, 80-76, in the first round. However, Oakland didn’t see the win as an upset.

Oakland head coach Greg Kampe stressed the team believed in themselves, no matter who they faced.

**KAMPE**: “We wanted Kentucky because they’re the best.”

Kampe fueled his team’s beliefs throughout the game with consistent positive messages, such as “We win close games.”

Oakland guard Jack Gohlke, who made ten three-pointers, reaffirmed the level of belief when he exclaimed after the game, “We’re not a Cinderella.”

Even if other people believe you are the “Cinderella,” it doesn’t mean you have to buy into their opinion. Nobody but you knows what you do behind the scenes to prepare. Nobody sees the work you put in to compete against the very best… and nobody’s belief matters except for yours.

Crafting a winning **mental** game starts with building a positive belief system.

Every day, during training sessions, you have the opportunity to build belief in your game. Your thoughts and actions either add or detract from your belief level.

The most empowering component is that the content of your thoughts and your actions in practice is a choice you make every day!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Lessons from Mahomes Winning Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/lessons-from-mahomes-winning-mindset/)
- [How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-under-pressure-with-confidence/)
- [How to Succeed as an Athlete Despite Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-succeed-as-an-athlete-despite-adversity/)

---

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports, Winning Mindset

---

### [The Characteristics of a Resilient Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-characteristics-of-a-resilient-athlete/)

**Published:** February 2, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![The Characteristics of a Resilient Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/resilient-athlete.jpg)

## What is resilience, and how does resiliency impact growth?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is resilience, and how does resiliency impact growth?](#What_is_resilience_and_how_does_resiliency_impact_growth)
    - [What qualities contribute to resilience:](#What_qualities_contribute_to_resilience)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

**Resilience** is a mental attribute that helps an athlete rise to challenges (making comebacks late in a competition), successfully deal with adversity (competing when your game is off or competing in difficult playing conditions), and cope with difficult situations (dealing with injury).

All athletes can identify performances or situations where they were overwhelmed by their circumstances.

Allowing your circumstances to dictate your behavior leads to poor results, choking, bad attitudes, finger-pointing, team conflict, inability to come back, emotional outbursts, and giving up mid-competition.

### What qualities contribute to resilience:

- **Adaptability** – **Resilient** athletes bounce back, whether mid-competition (mounting a comeback, overcoming mistakes) or during the season (dealing with an injury or a losing streak).
- **Composure** – A composed athlete stays poised under pressure and sees challenges as opportunities to raise their game. They are the master over their emotions, instead of reacting emotionally when things don’t go their way, such as questionable officiating or taunts from their opponents.
- **Confident** – **Resilient** athletes look for ways to turn the tide when their game plan is not working and trust their abilities to perform under pressure.
- **Laser-Focused** – **Resilient** athletes have the uncanny knack of concentrating on the task at hand despite internal and external distractions.

Instead of being consumed by a mistake earlier in a competition, they have a clear understanding of what needs to be done in the moment.

\* Persistent – **Resilient** athletes keep pushing forward. They stay motivated, work harder, and work smarter.

\* Optimistic – **Resilient** athletes maintain a positive perspective, whether winning or losing and see opportunity in adversity.

Most importantly, **resilient** athletes understand that **resilience** can be learned and honed.

One example of **resilience** is the San Francisco 49ers during the 2024 NFC championship game. The 49ers trailed 24-7 at halftime. The 49ers scored 27 unanswered points between the third and fourth quarters as they rallied back to defeat the Detroit Lions, 34-31, to advance to the Super Bowl.

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey commented on the team’s **resilience**, an attribute that they relied on throughout the season.

**McCAFFREY**: “That’s why football is four quarters. We knew we had the guys that if we were gonna do it, we got the guys that can make it happen. Just so proud to be a part of this group. Showed a lot of **resilience**, this week and last week.”

You will experience adversity throughout your athletic career (injuries, mistakes, losses, bad officiating, conflicts with a coach, unfavorable playing conditions, trailing late in a game, etc).

**Resilience** will help you navigate difficulties and perform better under pressure. **Resilience** will bring you closer to your athletic potential.

Study the examples of athletes who exhibit **resilience**. There are countless examples of athletes who have overcome similar circumstances to the ones you are facing.

Examine how they responded in those situations.

It’s important to understand that **resilience** is not an all-or-nothing trait. You develop **resilience** over time by how you choose to respond to your circumstances and intentional effort.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How to Create a Roadmap for Mental Toughness**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/lessons-from-mahomes-winning-mindset/)
- [**How Great Athletes Become Great**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-great-athletes-become-great/)
- [**How to Succeed as an Athlete Despite Adversity**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-succeed-as-an-athlete-despite-adversity/)

---

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Resiliency in Sports, Resilient Mindset

---

### [Mindset and Closing Out a Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-closing-out-a-game/)

**Published:** April 4, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mindset and Closing Out a Game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/closing-out-the-game.jpg)

## Can you take your foot off the gas pedal during a competition? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Can you take your foot off the gas pedal during a competition?](#Can_you_take_your_foot_off_the_gas_pedal_during_a_competition)
    - [So, when is it safe to coast when you have the lead?](#So_when_is_it_safe_to_coast_when_you_have_the_lead)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Composed_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Ask yourself the following questions:

- Does a 30-point **lead at half-time** of a basketball game ensure victory?
- Will a 3-goal **lead** in a soccer match with 10 minutes remaining guarantee victory?
- Is it even possible that a golfer with a 5-stroke **lead** heading into the last two holes of a tournament can lose?

There have been countless historic collapses in sports when teams had seemingly **insurmountable leads** yet found themselves on the losing end when the final buzzer sounded.

You can probably think of a competition in your sport when a team collapsed after **having a significant lead.**

You may have noticed that the athlete or team made more uncharacteristic mistakes, played with less enthusiasm, had lapses in concentration, made bad decisions, communicated poorly with teammates, and lacked energy.

### So, when is it safe to coast when you have the lead?

The short answer is NEVER!

Of course, embarrassing an opponent should never be the goal, but letting up in a competition has two potential trappings:

1. You can allow the opposing team back into the competition and even suffer a comeback loss.
2. You can create bad habits. When you take your foot off the gas, you detract from peak performance habits, such as focusing, maximizing effort, and honing a closeout mindset.

When you allow the mental game to get away from you, your physical game will follow suit.

Closing out a game requires finishing strong. Finishing strong should always be the objective of a competition, whether you have a lead or not.

In a 2024 midseason matchup between the Boston Celtics and Atlanta Hawks, the Hawks trailed 68-38 with 4:23 remaining in the second quarter. A 30-point lead in an NBA game “feels” like a victory is imminent. However, the Celtics took their foot off the gas and were outscored 82-50 from that point, leading to a historic collapse and a 120-118 loss.

Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis commented that the Celtics mentally allowed the game to **slip away.**

**PORZINGIS**: *“Maybe too much (confidence) a little bit, maybe we need to sometimes have a little bit more urgency. But of course, we’re a confident team because of what we have shown, and we expect to win every game. It’s a slip-up for us, letting this game slip out of our hands… We just don’t want to make it a habit, and it hasn’t been a habit for us. We slipped one game, and we did relax a little bit and we paid the price.”*

In sports, the body follows the mind. If you are distracted, you will make more mistakes. If you assume you will win before the game is over, you will give less effort.

Maintaining the right mindset throughout a competition is **crucial** for athletic success and consistency.

Remind yourself that habits are the sum of your choices and actions. If you want to rely on a closeout mindset in pressure situations, you need to build that mindset at every opportunity.

Stay **aggressive** and **continue** to go for your plays. Don’t **wait** for your opponents to make mistakes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**3 Keys to Finishing Strong in Competition**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-keys-to-finishing-strong-in-competition/)
- [**The Characteristics of a Resilient Athlete**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-characteristics-of-a-resilient-athlete/)
- [**How to Build Mental Toughness**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)

---

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

### [The Composed Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Composed Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you gain a competitive edge by improving your composure in competition. Learn the best ways to let go of mistakes and overcome frustration and dwelling.

*“My son Jake has struggled with composure for as long as I can remember. He is doing the **Composed Athlete** program and is about half-way through. He had the biggest, most stressful wrestling tournament of his season this past weekend. I have never seen him demonstrate such composure and sportsmanship -ever. I was so happy I was fighting back tears. It’s been a long and frustrating road. I am so thankful for your program.”* ~Laura Grogan

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Finishing Strong, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [Pressure is Self-Induced by Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pressure-is-self-induced-by-expectations/)

**Published:** April 11, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Pressure is Self-Induced by Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Pressure-is-self-induced.jpg)

## Expectations equals pressure for athletes…

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Expectations equals pressure for athletes…](#Expectations_equals_pressure_for_athletes%E2%80%A6)
    - [Pressure often comes in the form of expectations you might feel:](#Pressure_often_comes_in_the_form_of_expectations_you_might_feel)
    - [Coping with Pressure When Expectations are High:](#Coping_with_Pressure_When_Expectations_are_High)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Confident_Athlete_Digital_Download)

**Pressure** is a normal part of sports for athletes. In fact, you would be hard pressed to find athletes not make some type of reference about **pressure** they felt.

As you become more competitive, **pressure** seems to increase and, for many athletes, that can be an overwhelming aspect of the athletic experience.

Athletes respond to **pressure** in different ways. That is, **pressure** has different sources, is perceived differently, and affects athletes in different ways.

### Pressure often comes in the form of expectations you might feel:

- I have to be perfect and make no mistakes.
- I have to perform well for my teammates.
- I can’t let down coach or I’ll get benched.

**Pressure** is self-induced most of the time. You think others have high demands for your game–often the same demands or standards you have for your game.

But I have to admit, sometimes parents and coaches can have demands for athletes.

*“What do you have to go to when the garbage hits the fan, because it will hit the fan. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.”* **~Ken Ravizza, Ph.D.**

Some athletes feel the need to carry their teams on their back or outperform previous performances or always have a PR in the race.

Most of this **pressure** comes from the perception of excessively high expectations, which lead to the feeling or **pressure**. Some athlete thrive, while others might choke.

But guess what? When you feel the weight of expectations and the pressure to **perform**, you might try to do too much. This leads to trying to be perfect and avoid mistakes.

But the opposite can happen… Athletes under **pressure** might feel the need to play it safe and perform tentatively.

Anyway, the **pressure** to perform can be heightened for athletes in the playoffs…

*“**Pressure** is self-inflicted because you’re focused too much on results. You want to ask yourself, ‘what do I have to do each day so you can win a championship’?”* **~Nick Saban**

But make no mistake about it, you can’t heap expectations upon yourself and perform freely. It’s big ask to think you need to hoist your team on your back, have a PR every race, or score a hat trick every game.

### Coping with Pressure When Expectations are High:

Here’s the deal: Performing with self-induced **pressure** requires that you “play within yourself” and not play safe no matter if it is regular season, playoffs or a championship competition.

In order to cope with perceived **pressure**, you want to manage both your expectations and the expectations you feel from others…

What expectations (high standards) do you place on your performance leading up to a competition?

Most of the athletes we coach on the mental game perform their best when they don’t have strict expectations going into the competition.

To cope better with **pressure**, start by not caring so much about what you think others expect of your performance, including parents, coaches, fans, and friends.

This way you can let go of the expectations you perceive from others and free yourself to focus on execution of the game plan, one play at a time.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-under-pressure-with-confidence/ "How to Perform Under Pressure with Confidence ")
- [How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/ "How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments")
- [How to Perform Big in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-big-in-pressure-moments/ "How to Perform Big in Pressure Moments")

---

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### [The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital "The Confident Athlete (Digital Download)")

“*The Confident Athlete*” audio and workbook program helps you feel confident before you walk onto the field, track or court. You discover how to have stable and proactive confidence so you can think like a champion.

*“I just finished ‘**The Confident Athlete Program**.’ Improving confidence is a never-ending process. I think that confidence boosting is an awesome area. Having a daily mental plan for mental “work outs” can turbo charge anyone’s confidence level…. Studying almost all of Dr. Cohn’s mental game materials gives me a real EDGE over my competitions and most importantly – a boost in my daily life.”* ~Radek Sefcik, Peak Performance Sports Customer

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mindset in Sports, Self Criticism in Sports, Self Esteem in Sports

---

### [How Top Athletes Improve Focus](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-top-athletes-improve-focus/)

**Published:** April 25, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Top Athletes Improve Focus](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete.jpg)

## How do you improve your focus in competitions?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do you improve your focus in competitions?](#How_do_you_improve_your_focus_in_competitions)
    - [You have the power to improve your competitive focus. Just as with any other skill, focus requires the following:](#You_have_the_power_to_improve_your_competitive_focus_Just_as_with_any_other_skill_focus_requires_the_following)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Most athletes show up to competitions and try to force themselves to focus throughout the competition. This focusing strategy rarely, if ever, works.

It is easy to **focus** early in competitions or when you are on top of your game.

However, when the pressure builds, distractions increase. Competing elements vie for your attention, such as crowd noise, fear of failure, previous mistakes, trash-talking opponents, the importance of the competition, high expectations, bad officiating, etc.

If you haven’t trained yourself to focus in pressure situations, you will underperform when it matters most.

At the 2024 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships, LSU demonstrated the impact of a laser **focus** on performance. The LSU Tigers trailed Utah going into the final rotation. LSU responded by producing a record-setting performance on the beam to capture the program’s first NCAA title.

LSU senior Sierra Ballard was the first on the beam and nailed her routine with a career-high score of 9.95.

LSU senior Haleigh Bryant, who won the 2024 NCAA all-around individual title, heralded teammate Sierra Ballard’s ability to block out distractions.

**BRYANT**: *“\[Ballard\] started us on beam on the best note we could possibly have. She’s so locked in, and she does it every single day.”*

Being “locked in” is a skill requiring repetition.

### You have the power to improve your competitive focus. Just as with any other skill, focus requires the following:

- Setting the goal and creating a detailed action plan for developing your competitive focus. For example, when and how will you work on improving your focus? When you have clear objectives for each training session, you will be able to direct your efforts to maximize building the mental skill of focusing.
- Learning to be process-oriented. Understand that developing **focus** is not achieved overnight. Focus is improved over time, which requires long-term repetition.
- Utilizing performance cues. Develop personalized performance cues, phrases, gestures, or mental images to help you focus or refocus to perform your best during competitions.
- Practicing staying present in the moment during training sessions. Staying present means focusing on the task at hand. As you improve your focus in training sessions, you will feel more comfortable with your ability to focus during competitions.
- Visualize competing with a laser focus. Daily visualization will help you develop your competitive focus faster.
- Use breathing techniques to ground yourself in the moment. Deep breathing helps you manage stress and anxiety and promotes optimal concentration.
- Reflect on your progress and learn from each competition. Evaluating your level of focus and problem areas during a competition provides valuable feedback on what you are doing well and what you need to improve.

You work hard to perform at a high level in competition. However, it is important to remember that being your best requires honing your mental and physical skills to the best of your ability.

Just as performance cues can remind you of key technical aspects of mechanics, you can utilize performance cues to remind yourself to **focus**.

Create a personal performance cue, such as saying the word “focus” or tapping your thigh to remind yourself to focus.

Use these performance cues consistently through training sessions to build your ability to “lock in” during competitions.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Refocus After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [How to Refocus in Competition After a Mistake](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-in-competition-after-a-mistake/)
- [Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)

---

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download) ](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download) ")

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mentally Focused

---

### [How to Develop a Hungry Mindset in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-cultivate-a-hungry-mindset-in-sports/)

**Published:** May 2, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/hungry-mindset-in-sports.jpg)

## How Can You Improve Your Mindset?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Can You Improve Your Mindset?](#How_Can_You_Improve_Your_Mindset)
    - [Maxey’s motto motivates him to strive to improve his game daily.](#Maxeys_motto_motivates_him_to_strive_to_improve_his_game_daily)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Many athletes reach a point where they believe they have maxed their potential or can no longer improve. Some set career goals, and when they accomplish their objective, they become satisfied and lose their motivation to achieve more.

For instance, maybe you set a goal of playing in college. Throughout high school, you consistently pushed yourself in practice.

In the summer, you attended clinics to sharpen your skills. During practices, you were **motivated** to refine your mechanics to maximize performance.

During the offseason, you ran regularly to improve your conditioning and started a weight training regimen to increase your physical strength.

During your senior year in high school, college coaches expressed an interest in you joining their team.

Eventually, your work paid off during college tryouts, and your dream became a reality; you made the team!

However, after you achieved your goal, your performance leveled off. Instead of resetting your goal or furthering your game in college, you were just happy to be there.

**A “satisfied” mindset** often leads to regrets after an athletic career ends. Many athletes agonize over what could have been during their post-athletic careers. They wonder, “What could I have achieved if I had continued to work on my game?”

The opposite of a “satisfied” mindset is a **“hungry” mindset. In a “hungry” mindset**, you continually want more for yourself. You want to achieve greater heights, contribute more to your team, and maximize your athletic potential.

Athletes with a **“hungry” mindset** ask themselves, “What can I specifically do to further my game?”

Without a clear guiding principle, your progress can stagnate, leading to a plateau in performance. It’s crucial to have a guiding principle that keeps pushing you forward, even when you accomplish a long-term goal set early in your career.

For example, Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey averaged 25.9 points and 6.2 assists during the 2023-24 NBA regular season.

Maxey, now in his fourth season in the league, was named an All-Star for the first time and earned the Most Improved Player award for the 2023-24 season.

### Maxey’s motto motivates him to strive to improve his game daily.

**MAXEY**: “My goal is to get **one percent better** every single day.”

Maxey has a “hungry” mindset, one he has cultivated throughout his athletic career.

**MAXEY**: “When I got drafted I said I’d work extremely hard and I’ll make sure it’s not a regret. I really meant those things. I wanna keep building and keep getting better every single day… It’s something that I preach. Something that I live by and it’s not fake or something I started last year. I’ve been saying that for a very long time. My pop’s been on me about it. He always said proper preparation prevents poor performance so, for me, it does really mean a lot.”

Consistent improvement throughout your athletic career requires motivation and a **driven mindset.** Taking an active role in fueling your motivation keeps your drive alive for long-term athletic success.

Create a motto, a guiding principle, that motivates you to push yourself mentally and physically, such as “one percent better every day.”

Write the motto on your equipment or an index card that you place in your equipment bag. When training is monotonous or boring, remind yourself of your motto to keep your motivation high.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Mindset and Closing Out a Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-closing-out-a-game/)
- [Lessons from Mahomes Winning Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/lessons-from-mahomes-winning-mindset/)
- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)

---

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download) ")

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Pro Mindset to Play Your Best in Big Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pro-mindset-to-play-your-best-in-big-games/)

**Published:** May 10, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/pro-mindset.jpg)

## Ultimate Mindset for Athletes Playing in Big Games

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Ultimate Mindset for Athletes Playing in Big Games](#Ultimate_Mindset_for_Athletes_Playing_in_Big_Games)
    - [Examining Zibanejad’s mindset, you can understand why he has played at a high level during the playoffs.](#Examining_Zibanejads_mindset_you_can_understand_why_he_has_played_at_a_high_level_during_the_playoffs)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Fearless_Athlete_Digital_Download)

What does it take to perform at your peak during the playoffs?

Pressure increases a notch in the playoffs. A loss during the regular season is just a loss, just one game. However, in the playoffs, one game may be the difference between going home or going to the championship.

Elite athletes can regulate the pressure, while other players have difficulty controlling the volume of pressure.

Four factors help players perform at their peak during the playoffs. These four interrelated factors help players regulate pressure so they can perform their best given the circumstances:

- **Mindset** – Don’t make the game too big or try to be a playoff hero. The key is understanding and performing your role to the best of your abilities.
- **Focus** – Stay present and look for opportunities to make plays in the moment. Competing in the present minimizes worry about making mistakes or losing the game.
- **Preparation** – Prepare in the same manner as you have all year. Try to normalize the game to prevent becoming overwhelmed by the moment.
- **Confidence** – While each of the three previous elements impacts confidence, it is still essential to tend to your confidence to maintain optimal levels. Many elite athletes visualize previous successful performances or performing at their peak before a game to keep their confidence high.

If you attend to these four mental factors, you will minimize distractions and perform confidently in the playoffs.

Throughout the first five games of the 2024 NHL playoffs, New York Rangers center Mika Zibanejad has consistently produced despite the pressure.

Zibanejad has 10 points in five games (three goals and one assist) and is tied for second in postseason scoring.

### Examining Zibanejad’s **mindset**, you can understand why he has played at a high level during the playoffs.

**ZIBANEJAD**: “I go out there and try to do my best and do whatever I can in that situation. If things are not clicking offensively, I know I have other areas I can contribute… I think in terms of the goals and the points for an offensive guy they will come, I’ve been just trying to focus on doing the right things and when I have a chance to attack the game.”

It’s not just how Zibanejad has played in the playoffs but how he prepares for each game.

Ranger teammate Jack Roslovic points to Zibanejad’s preparation as the key to his peak playoff performance.

**ROSLOVIC**: “It’s not easy to score big points in the playoffs so for \[Zibanejad\] to do that at this time of the year is important. You see him in practice, his preparation; I don’t think anyone should be surprised at what he’s doing.”

Peak playoff performance results from attending to your mental game. Training your mind to be on top of your game lays the foundation for peak play.

Create a mental playoff preparation plan for the days leading up to a game by answering the following questions:

- How will I tend to my **mindset** to positively contribute to my team?
- How can I be “locked in” during the game?
- How can I prepare over the following days to be mentally, physically, technically, and tactically ready to compete?
- What can I do each day to maintain a high level of confidence?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [Mindset Tips for Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-playoffs/)
- [Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)

---

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

### [The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital "The Fearless Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Fearless Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you overcome fear and anxiety to perform with trust and confidence. Learn how to overcome the mental handcuffs of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading you to perform with unshakeable trust in your skills.

*With the use of the ‘**The Fearless Athlete**’ and ‘**Ultimate Sports Parent**’ workbooks, I see subtle but significant results in a short period of time. My young athlete did not even know about positive self-talk until we started the program.”*

~Adam, Sports Parent

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mindset in Sports, Pro Mindset

---

### [Are You A Fully Committed Athlete?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/leaving-a-positive-legacy-for-athletes/)

**Published:** May 23, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/leave-a-legacy.jpg)

## How to Leave a Legacy

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Leave a Legacy](#How_to_Leave_a_Legacy)
    - [Being all in is:](#Being_all_in_is)
    - [How Will You Be ALL IN?](#How_Will_You_Be_ALL_IN)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](#The_Focused_Athlete_Digital_Download)

Are You a **Fully Committed Athlete?**

Why is being “all in” important during your athletic career?

If you want to accomplish all you can in your sport, achieve your long-term goals, and **maximize your athletic potential**, there is only one way…

BEING ALL IN!

This does not mean obsessing over your sport or limiting your identity to only being an athlete.

Being “all in” means fully committing to maximizing the opportunities in front of you.

### Being all in is:

- Showing up to practice with a plan.
- Focusing fully on performing drills, mechanics, and team play during training.
- Giving 100 percent effort during practice until the session ends
- Preparing for competitions to the best of your ability.
- Taking care of yourself mentally and physically.
- Being fully engaged in competitions, whether on the field or the bench.
- Setting realistic, challenging goals.
- Adding mental toughness training to your training regimen.
- Developing your confidence, focus, and poise through mental training.
- Learning from your losses and your victories.
- Being resilient in the face of adversity.

Does being “all in” mean you will win every game or tournament? No.

Does being “all in” mean you will always be on top of your game? No.

However, not being **fully committed** guarantees under performance, frustration, and less enjoyment of your sport.

Is there a chance you won’t reach your dream? Yes.

Is it possible you may fall short of your long-term objective? Yes.

However, when you have given it all you have, mentally and physically, there will be no regrets at the end of your athletic career. You won’t be haunted by “what could have been?”

You will know, without a doubt, that you achieved all you could in your sport, and you will look back at your career with fondness and pride. That, in and of itself, is worth the commitment and effort.

Italian gymnast Vanessa Ferrari, with her unwavering dedication, has set the goal of making her fifth Olympic team to close out her career.

At 33 years old, **Ferrari is fully committed to her goals** and maximizing her potential. When Ferrari retires, she wants no regrets or thoughts of “what could have been.”

This “all-in” mentality is the legacy she wants to leave behind and the message she wants to send to her younger teammates.

**FERRARI**: *“For me, it’s incredibly important to be able to convey my passion for gymnastics and to make \[young gymnasts\] understand the importance of finding inner strength, of always overcoming obstacles and moving forward.”*

*“Whether for better or for worse, hard work pays off. You can’t always have everything you want, but being content knowing you’ve done everything you can, I believe, is very important and eventually brings satisfaction.”*

Are you willing to commit to your athletic career and leave behind a legacy that you can be proud of?

### How Will You Be ALL IN?

Are you participating for the wrong motivation? Are you looking for rewards, accolades, prestige, or to make others happy.

We even think that proving others wrong–when they said you can’t make it–is not the best motivator.

Start with the perspective of being 100 percent self-motivated–passionate about your sport and you would do it no matter the accolades that come with winning.

Think about the legacy you want to leave behind. Write a statement about how you want to **remember your athletic career.**

Take full responsibility for your career and don’t leave it up to chance or waiting for that “big break.”

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [How to Create a Roadmap for Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-create-a-roadmap-for-mental-toughness/)
- [How to Reach for Your Athletic Potential ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-for-your-athletic-potential/)

---

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

### [The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital "The Focused Athlete (Digital Download)")

“The Focused Athlete” audio and workbook program helps you or your athletes overcome distractions and sharpen your concentration during competition. You learn how to get locked in during practice and competition so you can improve and perform better.

*“First, I would like to thank you for the help given to me through your programs, ‘**The Confident Athlete**’ and ‘**The Focused Athlete**.’ I have made tremendous sacrifices though all these years to become a top Olympic Trap shooter but something was missing. This missing part was with my mental game. My scores increased tremendously in record time and others said that I was a different shooter.“*

~Marios Kapodistria

[Learn More](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Committed Athlete, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Sports Parents and The Problems with Focusing On Kids’ Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-parents-and-the-problems-with-focusing-on-kids-mistakes/)

**Published:** June 6, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this video, sport parents will learn how to be a supportive parent versus a distracting one. Harping on your athletes mistakes after a game can cause your athletes to make even more mistakes knowing they have a dreaded car ride home.

Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. We work with athletes in all sports – junior to professional – via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. Please contact us for more details.

### Watch to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Watch to Learn More:](#Watch_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How to Refocus After Making Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [**How to Prevent Mental Mistakes During Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-prevent-mental-mistakes-during-competition/)
- [**How to Stay Composed When You Make Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[LEARN MORE](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Fear Of Making Mistakes, Mistakes in Sports

---

### [When Sports Parents Dwell on Kids’ Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-sports-parents-dwell-on-kids-mistakes/)

**Published:** June 6, 2024
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

The Sports Psychology Podcast by Peaksports.com and Dr. Patrick Cohn. Learn how to improve your mental game and perform better. Dr. Cohn and Georgia Miller discuss how kids react when their parents dwell on mistakes after competition.

### Listen to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Listen to Learn More:](#Listen_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Stay Composed When You Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)
- [How to Move on After Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-move-on-after-mistakes/)
- [How to Cope With Mistakes Like This Pro](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-cope-with-mistakes-like-this-pro/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[LEARN MORE](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Fear Of Making Mistakes, Mistakes in Sports

---

### [Helping Soccer Players Who are Self-Critical](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-soccer-players-who-are-self-critical/)

**Published:** August 21, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps parents on how to address the self-critical mindset of their daughter when receiving feedback from her coach.

Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode: Sports Parent:

**EVAN**: *“My daughter is a 14-year-old soccer player with a lot of natural ability. But I think that she struggles with her mental game, particularly being too hard on herself, getting down after mistakes, and responding to a coach’s feedback. My question: is there anything that I can do to help her with her being so hard on herself or being criticized? I feel she is hardwired to be this way as her sister is not this way.”*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

- [**How to Stop Being Self-Critical of Your Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stop-being-self-critical-of-your-game/)
- [**Athletes Who Are Self-Critical**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-are-self-critical/)
- [**Helping Athletes Overcome Self-Critical Behavior**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/beating-negativity/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

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“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Self-Critical Athletes, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How to Increase Consistency in Competition?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-increase-consistency-in-competition/)

**Published:** August 25, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Sports Psychology for Ball Players](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/team-usa-basketball.jpg)

## Positive Mental Approach to Maintaining Consistency

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Positive Mental Approach to Maintaining Consistency](#Positive_Mental_Approach_to_Maintaining_Consistency)
    - [The following are thoughts that contribute to inconsistent performances:](#The_following_are_thoughts_that_contribute_to_inconsistent_performances)
    - [To maintain consistency, you must sustain a positive approach:](#To_maintain_consistency_you_must_sustain_a_positive_approach)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

What are the keys to greater consistency in sports **performances**?

Many factors, such as injuries, over training, lack of preparation, unrealistic expectations, contribute to inconsistency. Each of these factors is impacted by your thoughts.

Your thoughts heading into a competition affect your confidence, focus, and **performance**.

### The following are thoughts that contribute to inconsistent performances:

- “I’ve been up and down all season. Can I **perform** well today?”
- “I’m so nervous that I will lose.”
- “What if I make the same mistakes as the last competition?”
- “There is so much pressure on me. I hope I don’t choke.”
- “I played great in the last two games. I’m bound to lose today.”
- “I’ve been so sore from training. There is no way I can be my best.”

These thoughts create doubt, fear of falling apart, increased pressure, and difficulty focusing. Your thoughts hurt your mental game by overwhelming your mind with ‘what ifs.’

In addition, disruptive thoughts set in motion a prolonged stress response. Physiological responses, such as shallow breathing, tense muscle and rapid heart rate interfere with the body’s ability to function efficiently.

The solution is to avoid focusing or thinking about outcomes such as potential mistakes, winning or losing, placing in the Top-5, achieving a personal best, beating a rival, making the playoffs, and a host of other result-oriented thoughts.

How do you avoid disruptive thoughts and improve consistency? The answer is simple but not always easy to apply in competitive situations.

You must manage thoughts or focus your attention on the present moment. Instead of ‘what if’ thoughts, consciously think ‘what now’ thoughts. What should I focus on now in warm-up?” “What is my strategy right now for this point?”

You may not be able to stop disruptive thoughts, but you can choose to focus on productive thoughts. When you mentally train yourself to manage your thoughts constructively, you will increase the likelihood of consistent **performances**.

During the NFL 2022 preseason, Chicago Bears coach Matt Eberflus preached the importance of consistency. Eberflus has an intriguing philosophy about consistency.

“*As you have seen over the course of training camp, a lot of things have changed. There’s a lot of adjustment going on. So, it’s about guys that can sustain the **performance**, that can sustain execution, and then take that to the first week.*“

Eberflus uses the term “sustain.” In other words, athletes should sustain an effective thought process. Athletes should sustain their focus on execution. Athletes should sustain the way they prepare.

You will be more consistent in your play when you sustain a positive and productive approach to competitions.

### To maintain consistency, you must sustain a positive approach:

You can accomplish this feat by asking yourself the right questions: What thoughts can I focus on now in practice to build consistency in my game?

What can I add to my pregame preparation that will lead to consistent **performances**?

Consistent mental and physical preparation leads to consistent **performance**. Be sure to apply the same approach to each competition.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Harness the Power of Consistency](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-harness-the-power-of-consistency/)
- [Strive for Consistency, Not The Zone](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strive-for-consistency-not-the-zone/)
- [Use Your Mind to Improve Your Consistency in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/use-your-mind-to-improve-your-consistency-in-competition/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

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### [How to Turn Negative Criticism into Motivation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-negative-criticism-into-motivation/)

**Published:** September 2, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Perfectionist in the Game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Mistakes-1.jpg)

## What Fuels your Motivation? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Fuels your Motivation?](#What_Fuels_your_Motivation)
    - [Confidence is the second factor that determines how negative messages affects athletes.](#Confidence_is_the_second_factor_that_determines_how_negative_messages_affects_athletes)
    - [To turn negative comments into motivation, you must first work on building confidence.](#To_turn_negative_comments_into_motivation_you_must_first_work_on_building_confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Wins, personal bests, rewards, awards, and compliments are positive forms of motivation for athletes.

When your coaches, teammates, or parents believe in you, you will feel that extra spark to go for it.

But what if others don’t believe in you? Can you be motivated by disparaging remarks by others?

Some athletes view **negative** comments and being discounted as bulletin board material. These athletes are motivated by proving people wrong. Why are some athletes motivated by disparaging remarks while others are **negatively** affected?

First of all, motivational sources differ from one athlete to the next. In other words, motivation is personal.

### Confidence is the second factor that determines how negative messages affects athletes.

When you have shaky confidence, you tend to internalize negative messages. You wonder, “What if other people are right about me? What if I am not a good athlete?”

When you have low confidence, you buy into **negative** messages. Instead of **negative** comments becoming bulletin board material, those **negative** messages become self-affirmations.

When you fully believe in yourself, you don’t need confirmation from others. You know what you are capable of accomplishing. You are confident in your abilities, competitiveness, and mental game.

You have the mindset that no one will tell you what you can or cannot accomplish. You feed off the doubts of others, and that negativity motivates you to dig a bit deeper to prove others wrong.

### To turn **negative** comments into motivation, you must first work on building confidence.

Many tools are available to athletes to build confidence. When you achieve a high level of confidence, you become, in a sense, bulletproof to most negative criticism.

Instead of hurting your performance, **negative** comments become fuel…

Arizona State football coach Herm Edwards doesn’t buy into the negativity from the media. Before every team meeting, Edwards posts the Pac-12 conference rankings. In the 2022 preseason rankings, ASU is projected tenth out of 12 teams.

ASU senior fullback Case Hatch commented that negative media coverage is nothing more than bulletin board material.

**HATCH**: *“Every meeting (Coach Herman Edwards) puts up the Pac 12 conference list, for who’s No. 1, who’s last. We just sit there for a second and look at it. It’s just a reminder of where they have us projected and what we have to prove. The world’s against us.”*

ASU offensive lineman LaDarius Henderson stated outside negativity only serves to motivate the team further.

**HENDERSON**: *“We already heard from every outlet possible that we’re not going to win any games. We’re horrible. We hear it from ex-players and just all types of people. We’re done with that. We’re playing a game. We’re just locking in. Everybody’s gonna see. We’re not overly concerned with what people think of us. We know who we are.”*

Confidence, or knowing who you are, in conjunction with motivation, will strengthen your performance no matter what the outside world believes.

If you look for criticism, you will find it. It’s everywhere. So avoid having your radar up for hearing criticism from others, but if you do…

Use this strategy for staving off **negative** criticism…. When you hear **negativity**, say to yourself, “Just bulletin board material,” then refocus on what you are doing in the moment.

Get motivated instead of allowing it to consume you.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How This Pro Manages Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-pro-manages-criticism/)
- [How Athletes Can Use Constructive Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-use-constructive-criticism/)
- [Athletes Who React Poorly to Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-react-poorly-to-criticism/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Critism in Sports, Motivation in Sports

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### [How to Pros Use Visualization to Improve Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-pros-use-visualization-to-improve-success/)

**Published:** June 30, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Tuning Out Negativity](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Negativity.jpg)

## What is Visualization? How does it Work? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is Visualization? How does it Work?](#What_is_Visualization_How_does_it_Work)
    - [Visualization, sometimes known as guided imagery](#Visualization_sometimes_known_as_guided_imagery)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you ever wonder, “Does **visualization** even work?” Just what is all the hype about **visualization**?

First, have you ever performed at your peak when you catastrophized, thought negatively, expected the worse, and had images of yourself failing?

Definitely not! When you expect the worst, you often get the worst. It is referred to as a self-fulfilling prophecy.

When a baseball player tells himself, “I am probably going to strike out,” during a tied game in the ninth inning, what is the most likely result?

Probably, striking out. After all, you are fostering failure by creating images in your mind of striking out.

What would you predict when a gymnast continuously sees herself falling off the balance beam?

Again, most likely, the gymnast will fall off the balance beam. Not only is she imagining failure, but she is also mentally training herself to fall.

Anything an athlete repeatedly says, sees or does, increases the likelihood of that event happening.

However, you can foster positive results by altering your self-talk and internal images.

**Visualization** is the best strategy to create positive mental images and train your brain to repeat what it sees. In other words, you can achieve athletic success by rehearsing positive outcomes in your mind.

### Visualization, sometimes known as guided imagery

**Visualization** is the process of giving yourself a pre-designed script, then performing that scenario in your mind.

Just as physical skills are refined through repetition, mental repetitions enhance physical performance. In both cases, the more reps you put in, the more likely you will achieve the desired result.

**So to answer the original question, “Does visualization work,” the answer is, without a doubt, yes!**

In fact, the majority of Olympians give credit to visualization for their success.

Even NFL players have included mental rehearsal into their training regimens.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa spends hours before a game visualizing pre-snap calls and post-snap movements.

Even before most players arrive at the stadium, Tua is prepping by simulating dropping back, visualizing reading the field, and throwing the ball to a receiver with pinpoint accuracy.

Tua explained his mental ritual and the benefits of mental rehearsal…

**TAGOVAILOA**: “Mental reps. All the little details. If we run this play, what can stop that play? If we run this play, what can stop that play? It’s going through my entire progression.”

If you are not doing the mental work, you are holding yourself back from your potential. Take the lead from Tua; getting more mental reps gives you the best chance to play at your peak.

Talent only gets you so far in sports. Hard work drives you forward. However, it’s the mental work that finishes the race and beyond.

You don’t have to spend hours and hours **visualizing** your performance to reap the benefits of mental rehearsal.

Commit to 10 minutes a day before bedtime to **visualize** successful performances. Try to use a first-person perspective when you do.

Side note: When we work with athletes for 3 months or more, we help you to build a personal mental imagery program.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Elite Athletes Use Visualization ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-use-visualization/)
- [How Visualization Helps Boost Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-boost-confidence/)
- [How Visualization Helps Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Success in Sports, Visualization in Sports

---

### [Athletes Who Play Too Safe During Games - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-play-too-safe-during-games/)

**Published:** September 23, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Are you or your athlete **playing too safe in games**? This week, Dr. Cohn answers a questions from a sports parent who’s athlete is playing to **safe or passively in games**. This can often be an issue for athletes with **fear of failure.**

Watch this video below to learn how to **[play your game with out fear of failure](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QR6Ux0rUvTs "play your game with out fear of failure"):**

**Video on Dealing with Fear of Failure**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [**When Your Athletes Play Too Safe in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-your-athletes-play-too-safe-in-sports/)
- [**Why Playing Safe Doesn’t Help You Win**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-playing-safe-doesnt-help-you-win/)
- [**Do You Have An Athlete Who Plays It Safe When In The Lead?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-have-an-athlete-who-plays-it-safe-when-in-the-lead/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness

---

### [How to Recover Like the Pros After Losses](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-recover-like-the-pros-after-losses/)

**Published:** September 22, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Reach for Your Athletic Potential](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-potential.jpg)

## Do you Feel Demoralized After a Bad Game? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do you Feel Demoralized After a Bad Game?](#Do_you_Feel_Demoralized_After_a_Bad_Game)
    - [Look at Burrow’s mental process and the reason for his positive outlook:](#Look_at_Burrows_mental_process_and_the_reason_for_his_positive_outlook)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

It’s one thing to have a bad game, but a disastrous game can be mentally deflating.

Even worse are consecutive horrible games. When you have back-to-back disastrous **performances**, those are the times you want to call it quits.

For instance, how would you feel if you were a gymnast who can’t seem to stick the landing on a vault in competitions? Would you be excited for the next competition or fearful that you would “mess up” again?

Let’s look at the 2022 Cincinnati Bengals as an example. The Cincinnati Bengals lost the first two games of the 2022 NFL season after making it to the Super Bowl the previous year.

It’s not just losing two games but how the Bengals lost the games, giving up seven sacks. Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow, the 2021 NFL Comeback Player of the Year, has particularly under performed.

Burrow has thrown four interceptions, and his quarterback ranking is 19th in the league.

However, Burrow is handling his circumstances like a player with a champion mindset. Instead of allowing mistakes to define him, he has put the team’s slow start in perspective and has put a positive spin on the situation.

**BURROW**: “*I’ve got to play better for us to win, but it is what it is at this point. Interceptions are going to happen. You try and limit them the best you can, but you’ve got to move on*.”

Burrow is not worried about the team’s slow start.

**BURROW**: “*No panic. We’ve lost two games before. We lost two straight games several times last year. There’s a lot of football to be played. We moved on from those games and made the corrections we needed to make. We have a great coaching staff that will do that, and we have the players to make it happen.*“

### Look at Burrow’s mental process and the reason for his positive outlook:

- When you take personal responsibility for your **performance**, you will feel empowered that you can turn things around.
- Letting go of the past frees your mind to focus on the present.
- When you realize mistakes are going to happen, you won’t feel devastated when they do occur.
- You can use evidence from the past to support your ability to overcome adversity in the present.
- You can bounce back when you put your circumstances in perspective, and don’t panic.
- “We moved on from those games and made the corrections we needed to make.” Taking action puts you in the driver’s seat and helps you maintain confidence.
- Stable belief in your skills keeps doubts from taking root.

Burrow has laid out a mindset for dealing with disastrous results. Adopting this mindset is the best method for moving forward after bad **performances**.

You need to WORK to move forward after bad games. While you may be tempted to do more physical work, mental work is also beneficial, such as managing how you respond.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How to Learn from Losses ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-learn-from-losses/)
- [How to Learn and Improve from Losses](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-learn-and-improve-from-losses/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Using Warm-ups to Set the Tone Early](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/using-warm-ups-to-set-the-tone-early/)

**Published:** September 29, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Confidence in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/2-4-SR-large.jpg)

## Don’t Wait To Set the Tone

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Don’t Wait To Set the Tone](#Dont_Wait_To_Set_the_Tone)
    - [When you try to ease into a competition, two things generally happen:](#When_you_try_to_ease_into_a_competition_two_things_generally_happen)
    - [You have momentum as the competition begins, and you will have a mental edge over the competition.](#You_have_momentum_as_the_competition_begins_and_you_will_have_a_mental_edge_over_the_competition)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What is your mindset at the start of a competition? Do you tend to play cautiously at the beginning of a game or come out of the gates swinging?

### When you try to ease into a competition, two things generally happen:

**1. You find yourself behind early in the competition. A slow start is due to a cautious mindset.**

When you play cautiously, you will find yourself losing early in a game, panicking, and making more mistakes.

Many athletes fail to regain their composure after a slow start and never rebound from an early deficit.

**2. You set the tone for your play and have difficulty flipping the switch.**

A slow start often translates into a slow finish. It isn’t easy to go from zero to 100 in seconds. No momentum is hard to overcome.

You can’t depend on luck to determine your intensity at the start of a competition. If you rely on luck, you will usually feel emotionally flat or mentally scattered and may not be able to snap out of that emotional state.

The goal is to set the tone early in a competition, that is, in the warm-up.

If you want to play aggressively to start a game, mentally prepare to be firing on all cylinders during warm-up.

If you want to play with confidence, activate a confident mindset during warm-up. Pay attention to your competitive mindset during warm-up so you can perform at your peak from the start of a competition.

When you are energized in warm-up and tend to your competitive mindset, you mentally and physically fuel your performance.

### You have momentum as the competition begins, and you will have a mental edge over the competition.

Early in the 2022 NFL season, two-time Pro Bowler Demarcus Lawrence matched a career-high with three sacks in one game.

Lawrence helped the Dallas defense overwhelm New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in the Cowboys’ 23-16 victory.

With Lawrence’s leadership, the Cowboys sacked Jones five times, recorded 12 QB pressures, and pressured Jones on 40.5% of his dropbacks.

After the game, Lawrence talked about his mindset heading into the game: “The energy was up, my body felt good today, so I attacked it.”

The two important words are “energy” and “attack.” Lawrence’s energy was high due to his preparation during warm-up.

Lawrence prepared his body and mind to get after it as soon as the game started. The word “attack” reminded Lawrence to play aggressively from the game’s first snap.

To play at your peak, you need to decide how you want to play, how you will prepare to play, and how to fuel your mindset before the competition starts.

Before warm-up, identify one word that summarizes how you want to perform, such as “poised,” “confident,” or “attack.”

Use this cue word during warm-up to remind yourself of the mindset you want to take into the competition.

Be sure to raise your intensity to an optimal level that will help you focus your best and start strong!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)
- [The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [Do You Have Fun When Competing?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-have-fun-when-competing/)

**Published:** October 5, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Game Loss Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/losing-a-competition.jpg)

## Does Performance Pressure Outweigh Competing?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Does Performance Pressure Outweigh Competing?](#Does_Performance_Pressure_Outweigh_Competing)
    - [When you manage expectations, you will not over-emphasize the importance of a competition. You will play freely and have fun while competing.](#When_you_manage_expectations_you_will_not_over-emphasize_the_importance_of_a_competition_You_will_play_freely_and_have_fun_while_competing)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you have **fun** competing in games or tournaments? Do you enjoy exploring your potential or does competition make your feel stressed?

Sports are enjoyable for many reasons. You may have fun in practice. You might have a lot of friends on your team. You might like to master skills…

Nevertheless, the tricky question is: are you excited about games and the challenges of competing?

But did you know you can feel pressure, still have **fun**, and perform at your peak? The key is managing your expectations.

When expectations are unrealistically high, you experience greater pressure. Every move you make, you feel, is being scrutinized.

You second-guess every decision. You feel the need to be perfect. When you are unable to manage expectations, your game will be off. No matter your sport, high expectations and pressure make it difficult to enjoy the experience of competing.

For example, a high school soccer player may believe he must score at least one goal per game to earn a scholarship to his dream college. Playing for this college team has been his goal for years.

He thinks if he doesn’t receive a scholarship, he will not be able to afford tuition or play at the Division I level. During games, he second-guesses every shot, even when he is wide-open.

His high expectations cause so much pressure that he overthinks and under performs on the pitch.

Managing expectations is a balancing act between challenging yourself and enjoying what you are doing.

In 2022, Morgan Turner signed her first professional soccer contract with Sport Clube União (S.C.U.) Torreense of the first division of Portuguese women’s soccer.

Before playing in Portugal, Turner had a prolific career at DePaul University, scoring 31 goals in 80 appearances.

Turner is excited by the challenge of playing at the next level and enjoying the moment.

**TURNER**: “I’ve always wanted to play professionally. Playing professionally has been my ultimate goal, so since I’ve been here, I’ve just been enjoying where I’m at and just enjoying the moment… It’s been a blast being here. I really love living in Portugal, and it’s been so much **fun** to play on a new team and start my professional career.”

### When you manage expectations, you will not over-emphasize the importance of a competition. You will play freely and have fun while competing.

Peak performance is a balancing act. To compete at your peak, you need to be excited about the challenge and stretch your abilities while managing expectations to minimize pressure.

You can have **fun** at any competitive level. Enjoying the challenge is the key. Remember, how you view pressure or challenge can change your experience and help ignite your passion for competing.

Ask yourself, “Why did I love playing my sport when I was younger?” “Why did I choose to play my sport?” “What made competing fun?”

You want to take a new perspective into your sport and know why you participate. Worry and pressure lead to being serious. Enjoying the challenge leads to **fun**.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Having Fun While Performing at Your Best](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/having-fun-while-performing-at-your-best/)
- [Flow and Fun in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/flow-and-fun-in-sports/)
- [The Confidence Rollercoaster is No Fun for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-confidence-rollercoaster-is-no-fun-for-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [When Athletes Fail to Meet Expectations - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-athletes-fail-to-meet-others-expectations/)

**Published:** October 7, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

When athletes have **high expectations** about what others expect, they feel more pressure to be perfect and not make mistakes. Is everyone telling you how good you can be at sports, but you are not meeting those expectations?

Watch this video to learn [**how to deal with pressure**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxwjQPwZlgY&feature=youtu.be "how to deal with pressure") from others:

**Video on Expectations Leading to Increased Pressure**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [**Fear of Meeting Other’s Expectations and Pressure**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-meeting-others-expectations-and-pressure/)
- [**Helping Athletes Manage High Expectations**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-athletes-manage-high-expectations/)
- [**How Athletes Can Manage Expectations**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-manage-expectations/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness

---

### [Fear of Meeting Other's Expectations and Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-meeting-others-expectations-and-pressure/)

**Published:** October 8, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

When athletes have high expectations about what others expect, they feel more pressure to be perfect and not make mistakes. Is everyone telling you how good you can be at sports, but you are not meeting those expectations?

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps an athlete who thinks he is not playing to the best of his abilities and battling expectations from people around him.

Listen to this and learn how to deal with pressure from others:

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [When Athletes Fail to Meet Expectations – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-athletes-fail-to-meet-others-expectations/)
- [How Athletes Can Manage Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-manage-expectations/)
- [Helping Athletes Manage High Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-athletes-manage-high-expectations/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

### The Confident Athlete 

Can you experience yourself right now walking out onto the court, diamond, course, or playing field with **complete conviction** in your ability **and unwavering confidence** beaming like a bright light? Imagine feeling dominant, positive with only confident thoughts, and ready to take control of the game.

You can learn how to **think like a champion** and have ultimate self-confidence just like the pros. It’s not hard or impossible to achieve – I help athletes reach their goals every day and you, too, can learn the same strategies I teach to my students who pay me well over $1000 per day for personal coaching.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

---

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts

---

### [Do You Embrace Intra-Team Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-embrace-intra-team-competition/)

**Published:** October 14, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/embracing-team-competition.jpg)

## Nervous Competing Against Teammates in Practice?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Nervous Competing Against Teammates in Practice?](#Nervous_Competing_Against_Teammates_in_Practice)
    - [When nervous athletes compete against teammates, they usually under perform.](#When_nervous_athletes_compete_against_teammates_they_usually_under_perform)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Coaches create competition scenarios in practice and training sessions to improve the team’s ability to perform under pressure and shape each player’s competitive **mindset**.

Competing in practice makes competing in tournaments and games more appealing. Instead of becoming nervous, you feel more confident. You make fewer mistakes.

You take more risks and feel comfortable taking those risks.

Your mindset towards competition determines your level of performance and pushes you to explore your potential.

However, many athletes feel tremendous pressure when competing for starting roles and playing time. Some players fear being replaced…

They believe losing their status on the team is a negative statement about themselves as athletes. They think, “If I lose playing time, it means that I’m not a good athlete,” or “My coach or teammates don’t believe in me.”

### When nervous athletes compete against teammates, they usually under perform.

Other players rise to the challenge. They see competition as an opportunity to develop new skills, raise their game, and improve their mental game. They are not threatened by intra-team competition.

In fact, these athletes look forward to competing. They understand that competition in practice improves their ability to compete in tournaments or games. The **mindset** is, “You may have beaten me last time, but this time I will win.”

Mindsets are trained, either consciously or unconsciously. So, if you are purposeful, aware, and dedicated, you can change your mindset from being apprehensive about competing to being excited about competing.

Sharpening your competitive **mindset** in practice gives you a mental edge in competition…

For example, the Philadelphia Sixers made off-season moves, adding new players to the roster to challenge 6-year veteran Furkan Korkmaz. Korkmaz had an off-year during the 2021-22 season. Now, Korkmaz is battling to keep a consistent spot in the rotation.

Korkmaz has welcomed the competition and is confident in his ability to rise to the challenge.

**KORKMAZ**: *“I see all those signings and new players coming in. This is normal. This is the nature of basketball. The way that I ended last year, I’m not offended or \[angry\] at anybody of who they are signing and everything, but, at the end of the day, if I can be myself, I know what I’m capable of and what I can do. So I’m just gonna try and do my best and give the team whatever it takes to win the championship, and I think I’m gonna be a huge part of it.”*

You can view intra-team competition as the chance of losing playing time or as an opportunity to lift your game. Whichever you choose, your mindset makes all the difference in how you perform.

When you embrace competing against teammates, you will enjoy it more and feel less stress.

Using a competitive mindset – during practice and scrimmages – helps you perform better in games.

When you battle for a position in practice, you are preparing mentally for competition. All opportunities to compete helps you become a mentally stronger athlete.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How to Approach Intra-Team Competition**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-approach-intra-team-competition/)
- [**How to Grow Competition Confidence** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [**How to Prevent Mental Mistakes During Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-prevent-mental-mistakes-during-competition/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Mindset For Playing Rivalries](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-rivalries/)

**Published:** October 21, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/playing-a-rival.jpg)

## Manage Anxiety in Stressful Games

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Manage Anxiety in Stressful Games](#Manage_Anxiety_in_Stressful_Games)
    - [The truth is you have the power to reel in your response and even prevent that negative response altogether.](#The_truth_is_you_have_the_power_to_reel_in_your_response_and_even_prevent_that_negative_response_altogether)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you get psyched up for **rivalry games**, or does the hoopla surrounding rivalry competitions cause you to feel pressure and anxiety?

Rivalries can be highly motivating for some athletes. These athletes look forward to rivalry competitions to prove their superiority over their opponents.

In addition, by winning, they also earn bragging rights until the next time they face off. These athletes experience a physiological and mental boost that psyches them up to perform their best.

However, for some athletes, **rivalries** are competitions filled with anxiety.

Before the competition begins, these athletes experience an intense, prolonged and overwhelming physiological response. This response is caused by excessive anxiety.

In highly anxious moments, you experience significant negative biological changes: heart rate increases muscles tense up, breathing becomes shallow, and adrenaline surges through the body.

Rivalries change more than our body chemistry. Competing against **rivals** can adversely affect focus, thinking, decision-making, and emotions.

For example, imagine you are competing against your long-term rival in a mid-season competition. You feel a lot is riding on this competition.

For days, you have built up this contest to be bigger than it is. When the game starts, you think, “I’m so anxious, I can’t even focus.”

Instead of immersing yourself in your game, you are immersed in how you feel mentally and physically.

### The truth is you have the power to reel in your response and even prevent that negative response altogether.

When you reframe your circumstances, you shrink the importance of the competition. Minimizing the significance of a **rivalry** lessens the stakes of the contest.

In other words, it is not the most important game but just another game. If you lose to a rival, it carries the same weight as any other competition.

For example, the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles have been long-time rivals. Before the 2022 Dallas-Eagles match-up, Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown stated he was aware of the rivalry but not focused on it.

**BROWN**: “*I just don’t take it that serious. I’m not gonna get too caught up in the rivalry. It’s another game, and I’m just trying to do my job so we can go 1-0 this week. Huge division game. Now, that’s the big part about it, trying to get ahead in the division. But all the **rivalry**, the going back and forth stuff? You’ll never see me going back and forth or doing something I’m not supposed to be doing on the football field. I’m playing football, and I’m trying to win games.*“

Focusing on what you need to do to prepare your best and paying attention to your role for the game lessens the pressure, no matter who you play.

Take the word “**rivalry**” out of your vocabulary. When your teammates, coach, parents, or media hype up a game, remember that the competition has no greater significance than any other game. Keep the focus on you and nothing else.

Pressure is not external to you. You create pressure for yourself when you place importance on an important game.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Turn Self-Doubt Into Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-self-doubt-into-confidence/)
- [How to Manage Anxiety in Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-manage-anxiety-in-competitions/)
- [Overcoming Pressure and Anxiety in Matches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcoming-pressure-and-anxiety-in-matches/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Concentration in Sports, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [What Keeps You From Taking Risk](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-keeps-you-from-taking-risk/)

**Published:** October 27, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletes-and-taking-risks.jpg)## Do you Take Risks to Help you Succeed in your Sport? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do you Take Risks to Help you Succeed in your Sport?](#Do_you_Take_Risks_to_Help_you_Succeed_in_your_Sport)
    - [Athletes shy away from taking risks for several reasons:](#Athletes_shy_away_from_taking_risks_for_several_reasons)
    - [Why should you take calculated risks?](#Why_should_you_take_calculated_risks)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Does fear or making mistakes or lack of confidence with a new skill prevent you from taking risks?

We’re not talking about unhealthy or dangerous **risks**, but those tough challenges that push you towards greater heights…

Risk-taking means pushing your limits, getting out of your comfort zone, and setting higher but achievable goals.

You will eventually plateau when you refrain from taking **risks** in competitions or breaking out of your comfort zone in training. Plateauing causes athletes to feel frustrated, less confident, and stuck in performance ruts.

### Athletes shy away from taking risks for several reasons:

- **Fear of failure** – “If I mess up, it means I’m a failure.”
- **Perfectionism** – “If I can’t perform it perfectly, then I don’t want to attempt it at all.”
- **Need for contro**l – “I’m not sure what will happen or if I will fail if I try something new.”
- **Fear of success** – “If I succeed, others will expect more of me.”
- **Lack of confidence** – “I’m not good enough to achieve anything significant in my sport.”

For example, a swimmer may risk going all in to make a national cut in the 100 freestyle. The reward would be achieving a personal best and their first-ever senior national cut.

However, not reaching the cutoff time could lead a swimmer to believe they are not good enough or are a failure.

Holding back will leave you feeling regretful and disappointed…

### Why should you take calculated risks?

- Helps you understand what it takes to get to the next level
- Helps you approach future risks with confidence
- Provides you with positive feedback to succeed in the future
- Breaks you out of your comfort zone
- Leads to growth, improvement, and achievement

For example, American figure skater Ilia Malinin, 17, landed the second-ever quadruple axel in competition at the 2022 Skate America. The difficult jump helped Malinin earn his first gold medal and become the youngest men’s champion in the event’s history.

Some of the best skaters in the world haven’t even attempted the jump in competition. Yet, Malinin took the risk, and the reward was well worth the effort.

**MALININ**: *“This morning, I wasn’t really sure if I would attempt it or not, but I think that it came over my mind that everyone’s watching, I have to go for this, and I went for it, and I landed it.”*

When taking **risks**, you might feel your self-image is threatened if you fail. However, when you take calculated risks and work towards your goals, you will more often than not succeed.

The reward for challenging yourself is breaking new barriers and accomplishing meaningful goals, which can give you a sense of pride and confidence. The rewards are clearly well worth going for it.

Before practicing or competing, ask yourself, “Would I rather play it safe and achieve average results or continue to push and increase my chances of success?”

Define the behaviors for you that would help you take more **risks** when you compete. Set these as objectives when you compete.

Playing it safe is the enemy of reaching your potential. Achieving true success requires taking calculated **risks**. Remember, the reward is well worth the risk.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Making an Impact in Competition – How to Take Risks](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/making-an-impact-in-competition-how-to-take-risks/)
- [How to Benefit From Mistakes in Competition ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-benefit-from-mistakes-in-competition/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Game of Golf

---

### [Is Pressure Your Friend or Foe?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/is-pressure-your-friend-or-foe/)

**Published:** November 3, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Team huddle](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Is-pressure-a-friend-or-foe-1.jpeg)## What is your Relationship With Pressure? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is your Relationship With Pressure?](#What_is_your_Relationship_With_Pressure)
    - [Pressure will help you feel energized and excited instead of weighed down and nervous.](#Pressure_will_help_you_feel_energized_and_excited_instead_of_weighed_down_and_nervous)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Every athlete sees and experiences **pressure** differently…

If pressure is your foe, you will try to avoid **pressure** at all costs. Instead of taking an open shot on goal and risk missing, you will pass the ball. Instead of taking the puck toward the net, you will pass it to avoid a possible mistake.

When you view **pressure** as unfavorable, you will feel more anxiety that prevents you from seeing your surroundings clearly and playing intuitively.

When pressure is your friend, you can play at your peak more often. Embracing pressure allows **pressure** to work for you, not against you.

When you manage **pressure**, you can make the best play instead of the safe one. You will be able to see your opponent clearly and anticipate the action as it unfolds.

### Pressure will help you feel energized and excited instead of weighed down and nervous.

Trying to survive **pressure** or get through a game where pressure doesn’t ruin your performance never leads to peak performance. If you change your relationship with pressure, you will vastly improve your performance.

To change your relationship with pressure, you need to change your view about **pressure** and performance. Managing in-game pressure puts you in command of the situation and keeps your confidence intact.

Portland Thorns forward Sophia Smith has experienced a significant amount of pressure early in her soccer career.

Smith left Stanford University after two seasons and was selected No. 1 overall in the 2020 NWSL draft. Smith, 22 years old, became the league’s youngest-ever MVP and helped the Thorns win their third NWSL title.

In the championship game against the Kansas City Current, Smith scored the first goal for the Thorns en route to a 2-0 victory. In two years with the Thorns, Smith scored 21 goals.

Even before her professional career, Smith successfully managed pressure when she was called up to the USWNT at sixteen years old.

Smith’s mental edge comes from her ability to transform **pressure** into energy and a sharpened focus on the field.

**SMITH**: *“Being an athlete is a very challenging thing, and it’s not just challenging physically; it’s challenging mentally. There’s a lot of pressure that comes with it. You know, everyone says pressure is a privilege, and I completely agree with that because I love what I do. And if I didn’t care, I don’t think I’d feel that pressure. So pressure is a good thing to me.”*

Peak performance happens when you can allow your skills to shine. When you learn to embrace pressure as helpful, pressure becomes your friend, not foe.

It’s all in your perception… Pressure comes from the expectations to feel to win or perform great. When you can manage the expectations you feel and others, you can view **pressure** in a different way.

Contact us if you want help with dealing with pressure that leads to under performance or a lack of consistency.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/)
- [How to Perform Big in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-big-in-pressure-moments/)
- [Performing Well Under Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Overcome the “Average” Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-average-mindset/)

**Published:** November 18, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Football training ](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/how-to-overcome-the-average-mindset.jpeg)

## Do you Think of Yourself as “Just an Average Player”? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do you Think of Yourself as “Just an Average Player”?](#Do_you_Think_of_Yourself_as_%E2%80%9CJust_an_Average_Player%E2%80%9D)
    - [How do you break out of the average mindset around?](#How_do_you_break_out_of_the_average_mindset_around)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you feel you don’t have the talent to get to the next level?

Some athletes feel as though they have plateaued in their sport. They think they have gone as far as they can and their best days are behind them.

For some athletes, these thoughts come as early as high school. Imagine being 14 years old and thinking you are finished as an athlete. You may go on to compete until you are 18, but chances are you will be miserable and anxious every practice, game, or competition.

Rather than trudging through four more years of being “average,” many of these athletes quit before they realize their potential.

Have you ever considered that maybe your thoughts are the problem, not your ability?

You may be just around the corner of a breakout year, but the thought “it’s over” is holding you back.

If you repeat negative messages long enough, you will begin to believe them. Belief precedes confidence, and your commitment to improvement erodes when you lack confidence.

The lack of commitment results in “average” performance, confirming what you believed in the first place. In the sport psychology world, this thought process is called “confirmation bias.”

Confirmation bias is the tendency to use current events to support your existing beliefs.

For example, if a golfer thinks he is not good enough to make his high school golf team, every low finish in a tournament will be used as evidence that he is a below-average golfer, “I knew I was a horrible golfer.”

### How do you break out of the average mindset around?

Quite simply, change your beliefs and **mindset**. For example, after an unfavorable performance, tell yourself, “I’m working hard. I’m going to bust out soon.”

Slanting your thoughts towards the positive improves motivation and confidence. When you change the content of your thoughts, you will be more willing to bust your butt to improve, leading to better performances.

Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena won the 2022 American League Championship Series MVP and the World Series MVP Award. Despite little experience at the major league level, Pena became the first rookie position player to be awarded the World Series MVP.

Pena stated he maintained his confidence by blocking out distractions such as negative thoughts and clearing his mind of mental clutter.

**PENA**: *“I’d say the hardest part was just blocking everything that’s not part of the game. There’s a saying that you can’t sink a ship with water around. It sinks if water gets inside. So, I just try to stay strong and keep the water outside my head. Just keep playing my game, show up every single day, and just trust in my preparation.”*

Astros’ manager Dusty Baker went a step further to state positive self-belief and enhancing self-statements are the motivating factors to reach the next level.

**BAKER**: “*I think about the guys on the taxi squad because Pe–a was on the taxi squad this time last year. I urge them all; you don’t know. You could be next year’s Pe–a because you don’t know how close to stardom you are.*“

Breaking out of the average **mindset** starts with believing that you have NOT maxed out your athletic potential. Keep in mind you just don’t know how close you are to breaking out!

Beating the average **mindset** requires challenging your current **mindset** by asking the following questions:

“Have I maxed out my athletic potential, or am I in a slump?”

“Am I helpless to break out, or can I work my way through it?”

“If I have the power to break out, what is my first step in the process?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-team-drama/)[The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)
- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [Routines vs Superstitions for Athletes ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/routines-vs-superstitions-for-athletes/)

**Published:** November 24, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Soccer Training ](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/routines-vs-superstitions-for-athletes.jpeg)

## The Differences Between Superstitions and Routines?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Differences Between Superstitions and Routines?](#The_Differences_Between_Superstitions_and_Routines)
    - [Routines can be executed before a game or, preshot routines, during a game…](#Routines_can_be_executed_before_a_game_or_preshot_routines_during_a_game%E2%80%A6)
    - [Mental Keys for a Warmup Routine](#Mental_Keys_for_a_Warmup_Routine)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

A superstition can be irrational because it’s based on luck. Another way of putting it is when athletes believe they will achieve positive results by engaging in a random act.

Examples of athlete superstitions include:

\* MLB pitcher Steve Kline never washed his hat for fear of washing away his luck.

\*NHL goalie Ed Belfour would not allow teammates to touch his equipment. Belfour’s superstition was so entrenched he would yell at teammates who came close to his equipment.

\*NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan wore his college practice shorts underneath his game shorts.

Most of the time, a superstition is based on luck only – what’s worked in the past for athletes. Athletes stick with what’s worked for them.

Each of these athletes believed they needed to perform their ritual to perform their best.

Pregame **routines** are quite different. Routines are a series of steps performed to prepare your mind and body to compete. **Routines** are a form of mental and physical preparation and help you get your game face on.

### Routines can be executed before a game or, preshot routines, during a game…

Pregame **routines** are essential for peak performance. For example, you follow a series of steps, such as listening to music, stretching, visualizing, warming up, etc.

When you perform this series of steps consistently, you will minimize distractions, keep your body relaxed, and feel prepared for the start of the competition.

Each step narrows your focus so that you feel mentally and physically ready to go by the start of the competition.

You can use in-game routines to reset for the upcoming moment. In-game **routines** can be utilized between baseball pitches, before a tennis serve, and before putting a ball in golf. Most stop and go sports have a time to perform a routine.

For example, Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Bryce Harper has a specific prepitch routine while in the batter’s box. Harper has repeated the same routine for years which helps him stay composed and focused at the plate.

**HARPER**: *“I think once I got into college, I had that little routine of what I do in the box, I get in, dig in, scrape the dirt. Then I touch out, touch in, then touch out again. Then I hit the front of my foot, like my big toe, pretty much. Then I go up \[with the bat\], look at the pitcher and come back. It actually was a little bit longer in college, but I shortened it up – It’s just something I’ve always done, something I’m comfortable with.”*

Harper includes biting his jersey by his right shoulder in his **routine** as a reminder to keep his front shoulder square to the pitcher longer.

**HARPER**: “*I’ve been doing that my whole life. If I fly open, that’s when I struggle. If I keep in, that’s when I do well.*“

**Routines** have many purposes, all of which help an athlete become immersed in the moment and focused on the task at hand.

### Mental Keys for a Warmup Routine

\*Know what steps help you feel mentally and physically prepared to compete

\*Perform the routine consistently and avoid changing it often–or searching for the perfect routine.

\*Consistently apply your **routine** in competitions and as a warmup.

\*Make sure your routine includes steps you would take with the mental game, such as letting go of expectations before you compete.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Routines Help You Get into the Flow](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-routines-help-you-get-into-the-flow/)
- [Why Warm up Routines Help You Perform Better](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-warm-up-routines-help-you-perform-better/)
- [Do You Have Bizarre Pregame Superstitions?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-have-bizarre-pregame-superstitions/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Emotional Toughness, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Tips to Overcome Self-Doubt](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tips-to-overcome-self-doubt/)

**Published:** December 2, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Golfer Self Doubt](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/self-doubt-athletes.jpg)

## Self-Doubt Makes Competition Harder at a High Level 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Self-Doubt Makes Competition Harder at a High Level](#Self-Doubt_Makes_Competition_Harder_at_a_High_Level)
    - [Even positive criticism from others can be taken the wrong way.](#Even_positive_criticism_from_others_can_be_taken_the_wrong_way)
    - [Three Steps to Managing Self-Doubt](#Three_Steps_to_Managing_Self-Doubt)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

 When you sap your own confidence, your potential is limited…

Even though you might be a talented athlete, **doubts** can weigh down your confidence and not allow it to grow.

However, one thing compounds the problem–listening to other doubters. When your ears are open to the naysayers, you may be tempted to adopt their words as true facts.

When you have **doubts**, it becomes easy to tune into what others say about you. By listening, you give power to the negative opinions of teammates, coaches, friends, family, and spectators.

### Even positive criticism from others can be taken the wrong way.

\* Being told, “You have a lot of potential,” can be misunderstood as you are failing to live up to your potential.

\* When your coach tells you, “You did well, but you could have done better if you finished stronger,” this can be interpreted as you failed.

\* When your parents tell you, “You should not get upset during a competition,” you may feel as if you are being told you are mentally weak.

Many athletes try to ignore doubts as if they will go away on their own. The problem with that strategy is that you are the ONLY one that knows you are doubting…

And thus you are the only one to counter **doubts** with a positive statement of your ability.

The key to overcoming doubts is to recognize the negative thought, then counter it by rationalizing with yourself.

Reframing doubts is a mental game strategy that can help you cope better. With this strategy, you recognize negative thoughts to put a stop to further unproductive thoughts. The next step is to question your **doubt**, “Is this true?”

Then, approach it what a rebuttal statement. For example, you may experience a string of negative thoughts such as, “I’m a horrible athlete. I have no talent and mess up every time I play.”

Start by recognizing the initial negative thought, “I’m a horrible athlete.” Then counter the doubt, “I have accomplished a lot in my athletic career.” Follow up with a positive statement, “I’m a hard worker. I will continue to push and strengthen my game further.”

James Wiseman was selected as the No. 2 overall pick by the Golden State Warriors in the 2020 NBA draft. Since being drafted, Wiseman has not lived up to the hype and has seen limited action.

**WISEMAN**: *“I have been through a lot of hard times. I have seen the negative side of social media in terms of myself. I don’t entertain that stuff anymore because it is negative, and it is all gossip. I just focus on my priorities, getting in the gym and getting better, working on stuff so I can be ready for the games.”*

Wiseman doesn’t accept others’ **doubts** as reality. Instead, he focuses on self-affirming thoughts.

WISEMAN: “But I feel like I can do anything, though. I am confident in myself.”

### Three Steps to Managing Self-Doubt

1\. Write down your most recent doubts from a previous competition.

2\. Rebut or reframe each doubt on paper: What would the most positive teammate say to me right now if he know what I was thinking?

3\. When you recognize your doubt, make the right choice to reframe it and move on with the competition.

Note: If you have any **self-doubt**, you are not fully confident in that moment.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Recognize and Overcome Self-Doubt](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-recognize-and-overcome-self-doubt/)
- [What is Your Self-Doubt Comeback Statement?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-is-your-self-doubt-comeback-statement/)
- [How to Turn Self-Doubt Into Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-self-doubt-into-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips

---

### [How a Mental Reset Can Improve Your Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-a-mental-reset-can-improve-your-game/)

**Published:** December 7, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/embracing-team-competition.jpg)

## The Best Way to Turn your Performance Around

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Best Way to Turn your Performance Around](#The_Best_Way_to_Turn_your_Performance_Around)
    - [How can you break out of performance ruts? The answer is to reset mentally.](#How_can_you_break_out_of_performance_ruts_The_answer_is_to_reset_mentally)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Every athlete experiences rough spots or slumps, which causes periods of under **performance**.

Many times, those athletes get in trouble when they focus on their most recent disappointing results.

Many athletes fall into the trap of being mentally “nearsighted.” That is, they are consumed by their recent bad results or low level of play. They tend to expect their lack of production or effectiveness to continue in the near future.

For example, a baseball player who struck out three times in their last game may expect to strike out several times in the next game.

Or a soccer player who played poorly in the first half of a game may also expect to make more mistakes in the second half.

Here is the problem with negative expectations. If you expect negative results, it will change the way you approach a game. You may give up shots that you would typically take.

If you expect negative results, you may not prepare the same way for the next game. You might play less aggressively. The result will be that you will underperform again.

### How can you break out of performance ruts? The answer is to reset mentally.

A mental reset is no different than resetting your cell phone to improve the **performance** of your device. A smartphone can become cluttered with unwanted apps and dangerous malware. A reset to your smartphone frees up storage space, eliminates potential threats, and speeds up the processing time.

Likewise, a mental reset for athletes clears your headspace, eliminates **destructive thoughts**, and helps speed up your decision-making in competitions. Resetting is like a mental timeout where you can refocus and recharge.

New York Jets quarterback and 2021 first-round pick Zach Wilson has struggled with basic throws during the 2022 season. Wilson’s lack of production resulted in the Jets benching him in Week 12.

Jet’s head coach Robert Saleh believes that Wilson needs a slight reset to get his play back on track.

SALEH: *“The biggest thing with Zach is the young man needs a reset. His decision-making has been fine, his practice habits have been fine. But there are some basic, fundamental things that have gotten really out of whack for him. And this is just an opportunity for him to sit back, focus on those things, find a way to reconnect to all the different things that we fell in love with during the draft process.”*

Resetting can help you clear your mind, objectively evaluate your play and readjust your mindset to perform at your peak again.

Sometimes, you need a hard reset, such as taking a few days off. Other times, a soft reset during a competition will be effective.

Resetting during a competition can be implemented during a timeout or between plays. Take a deep breath, use the cue word “reset,” and refocus your attention on the present.

You can also go back to videos of when you were performing well and see yourself performing with the same confidence and focus in your next competition.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)
- [How to Refocus After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve **performance** and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Composure in Sports, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How to Recognize and Overcome Self-Doubt](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-recognize-and-overcome-self-doubt/)

**Published:** December 15, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Volleyball psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/volleyball-mental-game.jpg)

## How Often have ‘What Ifs’ Bombarded Your Mind?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Often have ‘What Ifs’ Bombarded Your Mind?](#How_Often_have_%E2%80%98What_Ifs_Bombarded_Your_Mind)
    - [Instead, what-ifs are usually negative: ](#Instead_what-ifs_are_usually_negative)
    - [You can change the content of your thoughts by telling yourself:](#You_can_change_the_content_of_your_thoughts_by_telling_yourself)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Rarely are what-ifs positive.

Athletes hardly ever think, “What if I sink the next shot and win the game in overtime?” or “What if I upset my opponent and win the tournament?”

### Instead, what-ifs are usually negative: 

- “What if I choke today?”
- “What if I let my team down?”
- “What if I don’t qualify for finals?”

These internal questions are both confidence destroyers and performance-crushers.

Even worse are what-if thoughts that occur during a competition, such as “What if I don’t land this dismount?” “What if I give up a game-winning hit to this batter?” “What if I double fault and lose this set?”

“What ifs” are another name for **doubt**. When doubt becomes overwhelming, you lose trust in your ability and play it safe.

What is the solution to the what-if problem? The answer is to either change the content of your thoughts or find a way to calm your mind.

### You can change the content of your thoughts by telling yourself:

- “What if I win this match?”
- “What if I achieve a personal best?”
- “I’ve trained hard for this competition. I’m ready.”
- “Who knows what I can accomplish today.”

You can calm your mind by applying any number of relaxation strategies: Deep breathing, visualizing staying calm during the competition, listening to slow-tempo music, etc.

The key is to know the strategies that work for you. So you will want to try different strategies until you find the relaxation strategies that feel comfortable for you.

No matter the strategies you use, it is your mental game that helps you overcome **doubt** and perform under pressure.

The mental game has been important for Jacksonville Jaguars tight end, Evan Engram. After a game where Engram had 11 receptions, 162 yards, and two touchdowns, Engram was asked about the key to performing at a high level.

**ENGRAM**: “*Once you learn some things mentally that you can apply on the field or in a profession or whatever you do, you kind of learn how to become mentally trained and use it to your advantage..*.”

It’s a good tool to have. And so as opportunities came, making plays, getting downfield, making plays with the ball in our hands, (yards after the catch) stuff, that confidence goes up…

But also, it’s important to kind of stay in the moment, stay centered, and focus on your breathing and just be ready for the next play because, a good play or bad play, you want to continue to move on.”

Mental tools to help you be successful are a necessary component to your performance. The first step to overcoming what-ifs is to determine when these **doubts** occur.

What common challenges or situations cause you to doubt your abilities?

Recall past competitions and look for similarities when doubts interfere with your performances.

What do you say to yourself when **doubting**? Write these down. Practice refuting each doubt you listed so you can replace it.

Discover the triggers that foster your what-ifs and be ready to rebut your doubts.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Tips to Overcome Self-Doubt](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tips-to-overcome-self-doubt/)
- [What is Your Self-Doubt Comeback Statement?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-is-your-self-doubt-comeback-statement/)
- [How to Turn Self-Doubt Into Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-self-doubt-into-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

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### [Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)

**Published:** December 22, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![mental game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Mindset-for-Playing-in-Tough-Conditions.jpg)

## Facing the Worst Conditions in a Competition 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Facing the Worst Conditions in a Competition](#Facing_the_Worst_Conditions_in_a_Competition)
    - [You can choose to focus on how you will impact the game instead of focusing on the weather. ](#You_can_choose_to_focus_on_how_you_will_impact_the_game_instead_of_focusing_on_the_weather)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

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 athletes play better in cold weather? Why do some athletes seem to be unaffected by the heat? Why do some athletes find a way to win when weather conditions are adverse?

The answer is simple. Some athletes play better in adverse **conditions** due to a choice they make. That choice is where to apply their focus.

Imagine this scenario. You play on a soccer team that is playing in a weekend tournament. You wake up early morning to 40-degree temperatures and steady rain. You look outside and think, “This is horrible. I don’t want to play in these conditions. The field is going to be muddy. I never play well in the cold.”

On and on, you lament about the weather. You arrive at the field and are miserable. The other team is going through their typical warm-up while your team commiserates about playing in cold, rainy **conditions**.

At this point, the opposing team has a significant mental advantage, even though you are playing on the same field under the same conditions. Why would you give the other team a mental edge before the game even starts?

The issue at hand is not the weather. The problem is your focus. If you focus on rain, mud, cold, heat, or snow, you are not focusing on playing your game.

No matter the weather, teams are mostly playing under the same **conditions**. However, many teams often play with opposing mindsets, and those mindsets are CHOICES!

### You can choose to focus on how you will impact the game instead of focusing on the weather. 

You can gain a significant edge if you change your mindset.

Imagine how well you would play if this were your thought process, “Most players don’t like playing in the rain and cold. This is where I can separate myself from the other players. While they are hesitant on the field, I will be aggressive. These are the conditions where I excel. My focus will be the difference-maker.”

With this mindset, you will start the competition with greater confidence and a mental edge.

In a 2022 mid-season game against the Buffalo Bills, the Miami Dolphins were expected to play in cold temperatures and the strong possibility of snow. Not only were the Bills playing at home, but they were also accustomed to playing in cold **conditions**.

Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa commented he focused on competing, not the potential weather conditions.

**TAGOVAILOA**: *“I think for me, it’s understanding that there could be many things — could be snowing, it could rain, I don’t know. For me, at least, it’s a mindset thing, really. If I’m too focused and worried about, ‘Is it too cold? Can I really grab the ball? Can I not,’ then I would say I’m focused on the wrong things. It’ll be hard to play that way going down there and playing against a good team.”*

Miami head coach Mike McDaniel succinctly stated that playing in unfavorable weather comes down to mindset.

**McDANIEL**: *“To me, you just decide if you’re going to let it factor in or not, and then you adjust as best you can. It is the same field, the same elements, so you just decide mentally how much you will let it affect you.”*

What will you allow to affect your game, or will you choose the mindset to compete no matter the circumstances?

Tip for Gaining a Mental Advantage Playing in Bad Weather

Before leaving your house, establish your mindset. Write three positive statements about how you will mentally approach the upcoming competition.

For example, “Playing in this weather is my advantage. While others are focused on the weather, I will focus on my game. I will remain mentally tough throughout the competition.”

You want to embrace playing in any **conditions** so you’ll have the mental advantage!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [The Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)
- [How To Perform Well Despite Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-well-despite-tough-conditions/)
- [Mental Toughness in Harsh Weather](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-in-harsh-weather-conditions/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Composure in Sports, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How This Pro Manages Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-pro-manages-criticism/)

**Published:** January 6, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-This-Pro-Manages-Criticism.jpg)

## Mental Toughness When being Criticized

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Mental Toughness When being Criticized](#Mental_Toughness_When_being_Criticized)
    - [Mental toughness is the key to tuning out the noise.](#Mental_toughness_is_the_key_to_tuning_out_the_noise)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

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, mental toughness is more than in-game performance. Mental toughness is needed to deal with the pressure off the field and manage team adversity.

In other words, mental toughness is more than the will to win; it’s the ability to effectively handle all the challenges of being an athlete.

One daunting challenge of being an athlete is handling harsh **criticism**.

Whether you are winning or losing, there will be criticism, judgments, and negative statements about you as an athlete and your ability.

Thin-skinned athletes will soak in the negativity and allow outside opinions to affect their in-game performance.

When you buy into harsh **criticism**, you will often play down to the limiting views of others. The reality is that everyone has an opinion, and everyone gets criticized.

Unfortunately, opinions and judgments are highly prevalent in sports.

### Mental toughness is the key to tuning out the noise.

You may still hear the negativity, but you recognize it is uncontrollable and unproductive to peak performance.

For example, if you hear someone say, “He always chokes under pressure,” it only affects your performance if you buy into it.

If you adopt that opinion as your own, you are telling yourself, “I always choke under pressure.” That type of self-statement becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

However, suppose you recognize that statement as someone’s opinion, not fact.

In that case, it is easier to blow off the opinion as just noise and maintain a singular focus on your game, your ability, and your preparation.

Even positive opinions are just opinions, and it is important to recognize them as so. Praise can be fickle. The impact can be devastating when the person who praises you turns around and **criticizes** you.

The biggest challenge for any athlete is to focus on improvement, not opinion.

Detroit Lions quarterback, Jared Goff, understands you cannot change the opinions of others. Instead, Goff focuses on his preparation and performance.

GOFF: *“It’s mental toughness, but to be on both sides of it, like I said, you can’t let praise or criticism get to you either way. It all doesn’t matter, and it’s all very fickle, and our league’s very week to week. You play poorly one week, play better the next week, and you’ll be the greatest thing since sliced bread. It’s the way our league goes, and it’s the way I’ve really approached it since I got in the league.”*

Your goal is to be the best athlete you can be. You are the one who puts in the work. You are the one who puts it on the line in competitions.

You should hold yourself accountable for your preparation and performance.

The goal is to be the best athlete you can be for yourself.

Dismissing outside noise is difficult. However, you can take the sting away from harsh **criticism** by asking yourself the following questions:

- “Is this criticism 100 percent true?”
- “Is this something I can control?”
- “Will this help me perform better?”

If you answer “No” to any of these questions, dismiss the noise and move forward.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Turn Negative Criticism into Motivation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-negative-criticism-into-motivation/)
- [How Athletes Can Use Constructive Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-use-constructive-criticism/)
- [Athletes Who React Poorly to Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-react-poorly-to-criticism/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How to Perform Big in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-big-in-pressure-moments/)

**Published:** January 13, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Perform-Big-in-Pressure-Moments.jpeg)

## Do you Contribute to Pressure During Competitions?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do you Contribute to Pressure During Competitions?](#Do_you_Contribute_to_Pressure_During_Competitions)
    - [What affects your relationship with pressure?](#What_affects_your_relationship_with_pressure)
    - [Start by asking yourself three basic questions:](#Start_by_asking_yourself_three_basic_questions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

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** – If you believe pressure is negative and always hurts performance, then the slightest bit of pressure will tend to freak you out. Have you had a competition when you told yourself in pregame, “I’m so nervous,” and then a few minutes into the competition, you were a total wreck?

In reality, pressure is what you make of it. Pressure can lift your game by energizing you mentally and physically to perform at your peak. If you maintain a neutral belief about pressure, the level of nervousness you feel will be manageable and even beneficial.

\***Perspective** – Pressure is a matter of perspective. When you over-value the significance of a game, you increase the pressure factor. For instance, you build more pressure if you label a game as a ‘must win’ game. From the first minute of the competition, you will think, “I can’t make any mistakes, or I will lose.” Fearful thoughts breed anxiety.

Putting a competition into perspective reels in anxiety, “It may be a playoff game, but it is still just a game. If I focus on my plan, I will put myself in a good position.”

\***Reactions** – How you physically and mentally react to pressure also affects the level of pressure you experience. When some athletes notice their hearts beating more rapidly, they panic, “My heart is pounding. There is no way I will play well under these circumstances.”

Alternatively, you can prevent the “panic” by recognizing an increased heart rate is an essential element to perform at your peak. In addition, if you are proficient in relaxation strategies, you will feel more in control and confident to calm yourself in these competitive situations.

When you change your relationship with pressure, you will change how you respond under pressure.

The Seattle Seahawks entered the final game of the 2022-23 NFL season needing a win to advance to the playoffs.

Despite throwing two bad interceptions earlier in the game, Seattle quarterback Geno Smith rallied the offense and forced the game into overtime.

In overtime, Smith threw a clutch 17-yard pass to teammate Tyler Lockett to set up a successful field goal attempt that gave the Seahawks a 19-16 victory and a spot in the playoffs.

Seattle wide receiver Tyler Lockett commented on Geno Smith’s ability to put the game in perspective and perform big in the big moments.

**LOCKETT**: *“\[Smith\] reminded us when we were in the huddle, ‘Hey, just calm down. It’s just football.’ Geno just showed us who he’s always been. He’s a gamer. Even when it’s all on the line, he’s going to go out there still be poised, still going to play. It’s hard, especially when you go out there and things don’t go your way early on. We had picks and stuff like that, but to show the fight and how you respond, that’s what you want in a player.”*

Just like smith, a shift in perspective will dramatically change your relationship with pressure and how you perform in future competitions.

If you tend to become overwhelmed in competition, it is worth looking at how you interpret pressure.

### Start by asking yourself three basic questions:

1. Is pressure good or bad?
2. What do I do that creates more anxiety during competition?
3. What can I change so I can perform better in bigger moments?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/)
- [Is Pressure Your Friend or Foe?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/is-pressure-your-friend-or-foe/)
- [Performing Well Under Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How Self-Talk Can Help You Rebound ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-self-talk-can-help-you-rebound/)

**Published:** January 19, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Sports Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-Self-Talk-Can-Help-You-Rebound.jpg)

## Have you Thought in a Competition, “We Lost”?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Have you Thought in a Competition, “We Lost”?](#Have_you_Thought_in_a_Competition_%E2%80%9CWe_Lost%E2%80%9D)
    - [Your negative messages will wear you down mentally and physically.](#Your_negative_messages_will_wear_you_down_mentally_and_physically)
    - [To bounce back when trailing late in a game, try the 4-R Strategy:](#To_bounce_back_when_trailing_late_in_a_game_try_the_4-R_Strategy)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

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 chances of victory appear slim?

The reality is that you can talk yourself into or out of accomplishing significant results as an athlete. What you tell yourself is powerful. Your self-talk affects your emotions, physiology, mental processes, and the choices/ risks you are willing to take.

The narrative you tell yourself matters. The messages you feed yourself impact your willingness to bounce back in a **competition**.

For example, if you are losing 4-0 at halftime in a soccer match and tell yourself, “We have ZERO chance to win,” do you feel you will be motivated to push the ball downfield?

### Your negative messages will wear you down mentally and physically.

Instead of focusing on opportunities to score, you will be distracted by negative thoughts.

However, if you change the content of your self-talk, you will enhance your efforts and focus during the game. You will look for opportunities to make plays and be more productive on the field.

In the 2022-23 AFC wild-card playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence led his team back from a 27-point comeback for a 31-30 victory.

**LAWRENCE**: “*You couldn’t write a better script to win a game like that tonight… I’m kind of speechless, just to see what belief can do and to see when a team believes in each other what you can accomplis*h.”

After the game, Jacksonville head coach Doug Pederson talked about how the team’s mentality set a positive tone for the comeback victory.

**PEDERSON**: *“We’ve been in that situation before. I will say that being 27 down, you’re scratching your head, going, ‘Okay, can we do this?’ There was a lot of belief at halftime that we could. The guys felt it, and it just showed me again how close this group is, how tight this group is. No matter what adversity or challenges that face us, we’re willing to take them on, to tackle them and overcome them.”*

Athletic resilience is a crucial component of athletic success, and resilience starts with your ability to be in charge of your self-talk and self-messaging.

Remember, you are in the command center and control your internal messaging.

### To bounce back when trailing late in a game, try the 4-R Strategy:

1. **Recognize** when your self-talk is undermining your confidence.
2. **Reject** messages that don’t help you think confidently.
3. **Reverse** your messaging. Instead of focusing on what you fear will happen (losing), use self-talk to refocus in the present (executing the current play).
4. **Re-engage** and immerse yourself in what you are doing or need to do in the moment.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-team-drama/)[The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)[Having Fun While Performing at Your Best](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/having-fun-while-performing-at-your-best/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Recover From a Poor Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-recover-from-a-poor-performance/)

**Published:** January 27, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Volleyball game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/poor-performance-1.jpg)

## Moving Past an Off Day

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Moving Past an Off Day](#Moving_Past_an_Off_Day)
    - [Move on to the next Game](#Move_on_to_the_next_Game)
    - [Processing the competition is the first step needed to move forward.](#Processing_the_competition_is_the_first_step_needed_to_move_forward)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

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 motivated to work on weaker parts of your game in upcoming practice sessions.

However, if you compete long enough in sports, you will most likely have a competition where nothing goes right.

You will make uncharacteristic mistakes, experience unusual lapses in concentration, miss easy opportunities, and post an awful stat line.

For example, Boston Celtic Jayson Tatum missed 23 shots and had three turnovers in a 2021 game against the New York Knicks…Chicago Cubs pitcher gave up six homeruns in a 2022 game against the New York Yankees…At the 2021 National Bank Open, Aryna Sabalenka double-faulted 18 times in one match.

Awful, subpar performances tend to stick with some athletes. The negative images of failure and embarrassment can be challenging to shake.

You don’t want to be around anything that reminds you of the dreaded experience, including your teammates and practice facility.

### Move on to the next Game

Nonetheless, the quicker you can put the game behind you, the better you will be mentally prepared for the next game.

Therefore, you should process your intense negative post-game emotions, so there is no spill-over effect to the next game or competition.

The key is to avoid ruminating about HOW the mistakes happen and objectively process WHY events unfolded as they did.

This thought-clearing exercise will prevent unproductive images from rearing their heads at inopportune times.

When you have a more precise grasp of past performance circumstances, you can shift gears and focus on preparing for your next competition.

In a 2023 NFC wildcard game, Dallas Cowboys kicker Brett Maher became the first player in NFL history to miss four extra-point attempts in one game.

Despite the missed attempts, the Cowboys won, making it crucial for Maher to recover and prepare for the next playoff game mentally.

Dallas special teams coach John Fassel commented on the importance for Maher to deal with the emotions, then pour his focus into practice and preparation.

**FASSEL**: “*He’s probably going to be mentally hurting pretty bad until he can kind of sweat and kick again. There’s no medicine like being back on the practice field.*“

Maher realizes that a “four-miss” game is an anomaly, not a trend, and he just needs to maintain his next game/ next kick approach to regain his peak form.

**MAHER**: “*Get back at it. Hit some balls, have a great week of practice, get myself ready to go*.”

Bouncing back after an awful game requires you first to process what happened, switch gears, and focus on preparation.

### Processing the competition is the first step needed to move forward.

Did you have any extraneous circumstances occurring, such as injury, sickness, bad weather, or unusual competition conditions?

Were you implementing a newly rehearsed technique? Was your preparation or training inadequate? What mental factors contributed to your performance?

What impact did your emotions play on your level of performance? How can I prepare for or overcome these circumstances in the future?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to React to a Poor Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-react-to-a-poor-performance/)
- [How to Respond to Poor Performances in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-respond-to-poor-performances-in-competition/)
- [Rebounding After a Bad Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/rebounding-after-a-bad-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Why Tell Someone They Have the Yips?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-tell-someone-they-have-the-yips/)

**Published:** February 2, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, Dr. Cohn answers a question from a reader about telling others they might have the yips? It’s not a dirty five letter word.

JOHN: *“Why tell someone they have the yips? Doesn’t this make things worse when you label the person as having a problem?”*

Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. We work with athletes in all sports – junior to professional – via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. Please contact us for more details.

### Listen to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Listen to Learn More:](#Listen_to_Learn_More)
- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
- [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Should You Tell Other Players They Have the Yips – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/should-you-tell-other-players-they-have-the-yips/)
- [The Yips Can Afflict Athletes in Any Sport](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-yips-can-afflict-athletes-in-any-sport/)
- [How Do You Know if You Have the Yips?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-do-you-know-if-you-have-the-yips/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Yips, Yips in Sports

---

### [Should You Tell Other Players They Have the Yips - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/should-you-tell-other-players-they-have-the-yips/)

**Published:** February 2, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this sports psychology video, you learn if you should **[tell others if they have the yips](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Neeily4zopw&feature=youtu.be "tell others if they have the yips")** or not say anything at all. The problem is ball players will make it worse by changing mechanics when it was a mental game issue to start with.

### Watch to Learn more:

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Watch to Learn more:](#Watch_to_Learn_more)
- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)

**Video on Keeping the Yips a Secret** 

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-team-drama/)[The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)**
- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)[Having Fun While Performing at Your Best](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/having-fun-while-performing-at-your-best/)**
- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)**

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---

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 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Baseball Confidence, Baseball Yips

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### [How to Build Stable Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-stable-confidence/)

**Published:** February 2, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Confidence on the field](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/stable-confidence.jpg)

## What is Stable Confidence?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is Stable Confidence?](#What_is_Stable_Confidence)
    - [What is Stable Confidence?](#What_is_Stable_Confidence-2)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

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, preparation, and your game strategy.

When you concentrate on your strengths, preparation, and planning, you gain a sense of control and more stable **confidence**.

### What is Stable Confidence?

Stable confidence is a belief in your skills that is resistant to significant highs and lows. Stable **confidence** remains relatively the same whether you win or lose. It does not vary when you make mistakes.

**What Contributes to Stable Confidence?**

\***Growth Mindset** – Athletes with stable confidence have a growth mindset. They believe they can get stronger, better, and mentally tougher through effort and focus. For that reason, they put in extra time and effort, leading to higher achievement.

\***Present Moment Focus** – Athletes with stable **confidence** stay in the here and now when competing. They don’t worry about past mistakes, losses, or future competitions and outcomes. These athletes do all they can in the present and pay attention to the minute aspects of performance.

\***Dedicated Preparation** – Preparation separates elite athletes from the rest of the pack. Working hard may not always be enjoyable, but it helps you to be ready to deal with competitive pressure and adversity. Preparation can minimizes stress.

\***Sense of Control** – Athletes with stable confidence understand what they can and cannot control. Instead of wasting their energy on uncontrollable aspects of performance, they focus on their attitude, effort, actions, and reactions.

Focus on Process – Athletes with stable **confidence** still set and chase their goals. However, they realize to accomplish significant goals, they must focus on the steps that will lead to achieving their athletic objectives. In other words, they are not distracted by numbers such as wins, rankings, or scores.

The 2023 NFC Championship game pitted the Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) against the San Francisco 49ers (13-4), who finished the season with the best-rated defense and were on a 12-game winning streak. The winner would advance to the Super Bowl.

Before the game, Philadelphia center Jason Kelce described the team’s approach to the game…

KELCE: *“The formula and everything are the same. You lock in during the week, you work hard, you practice hard, you work on your fundamentals and techniques, and you know, trust your coaching, and go out there and play.”*

Philadelphia’s preparation and approach were the same for every game during the regular season. The team’s consistent preparation helped maintain their overall readiness and **confidence** even after losses, significant injuries, and a grueling season.

Stable confidence is a mindset based on years of experience in your sport…

Stable **confidence** comes from knowing you have put in years of training and competing in sports. When you do make mistakes, it’s easier to maintain a full tank of confidence.

Focus on the SELF in self-confidence. Confidence must come from within you! Don’t allow others’ expectations and chatter to dictate your **confidence**.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How to Build Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-stable-confidence-2/)
- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Competition, Confidence in Sports Tips

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### [How Your Emotions Affect Your Team’s Mood](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-your-emotions-affect-your-teams-mood/)

**Published:** February 9, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Motocross race](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/how-your-emotions-affect-your-teams-mood-1.jpg)

## How do your Emotions Affect your Team’s Mindset?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do your Emotions Affect your Team’s Mindset?](#How_do_your_Emotions_Affect_your_Teams_Mindset)
    - [To become aware of your emotional impact on your team, you should consider three key points:](#To_become_aware_of_your_emotional_impact_on_your_team_you_should_consider_three_key_points)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

The impact your emotions have on your **team** is often overlooked. You may feel that negative emotions or outbursts only hurt your game, but the impact is much more wide-reaching.

Let’s look at two scenarios. Imagine a basketball team who is battling for a playoff spot.

One player is particularly volatile on the court if a teammate makes a mistake. He yells at that player and won’t even pass him the ball when he’s open.

All the players on the court and the bench sense his anger and frustration. The tension on the court affects the whole **team** dynamic.

In our second scenario, a quarterback is sacked for the fourth time in a game. He stands on the sideline with his head down, dejected, and isolates himself from his **teammates**.

He appears to have given up on the team, and with five minutes left in the fourth quarter trailing by 10 points, the offense begins to feel the game is lost. Those negative emotions send messages to your **teammates**, affecting how they respond to you and perform in the game.

Negative emotions can trigger a domino effect throughout your team. Negative emotions poison team morale, cohesion, and motivation.

Conversely, positive emotions can also trigger a productive mood among your teammates. If you feel determined, those around you will pick up on those emotions, and your **teammates** will feel energized.

If you make a mistake in a game but maintain your poise, your teammates will take notice.

They will feel confident, motivated, and focused on responding positively. When you are excited to meet a challenge in a game, your **teammates** will rally around you.

One player on a **team** makes a difference!

### To become aware of your emotional impact on your team, you should consider three key points:

1. How have you responded to stressful circumstances in the past?
2. How did your negative emotions affect your performance?
3. How did your emotions impact your teammates’ performance?

Having a productive impact on your team is a quality of positive leadership

As the Philadelphia Eagles headed into the 2023 Super Bowl, defensive tackle Fletcher Cox was asked about Philadelphia’s quarterback Jalen Hurts’ poise and leadership.

**COX**: *“Even when times, things aren’t going our way or his way, you never see him really frustrated. You never see him screaming at a teammate for maybe messing something up, or it didn’t go the way that he wanted it to go. When your quarterback is like that, you definitely want to go out and play harder for him.”*

The spread of emotions between **teammates** impacts team play. Therefore, managing your emotions is a critical mental skill for individual and team peak performance.

Start considering how your emotions affect your performance or the play of your teammates. Think about the message you want to send to your **teammates** in future competitions. How can you respond in stressful situations that motivate and energize your team?

You cannot stop emotions from occurring, but you can learn to manage your emotions through diligent mental training.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Managing Your Emotions When Adversity Hits](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-your-emotions-when-adversity-hits/)
- [How Athletes Can Control Emotions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-control-emotions/)
- [How Elite Athletes Combat Worry](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-combat-worry/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

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### [How to Refocus in Competition After a Mistake](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-in-competition-after-a-mistake/)

**Published:** February 17, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Refocus in Competition After a Mistake](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/refocus-in-competition.jpg)

## Every Athlete Makes Mistakes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Every Athlete Makes Mistakes](#Every_Athlete_Makes_Mistakes)
    - [Why focusing on mistakes interferes with athletic performance:](#Why_focusing_on_mistakes_interferes_with_athletic_performance)
    - [How to counter mistakes:](#How_to_counter_mistakes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

How do you deal with **mistakes** during a competition? Do you quickly refocus on your game, or do you dwell on mistakes for too long?

### Why focusing on mistakes interferes with athletic performance:

1. Fearful of making mistakes can paralyze athletes or cause athletes to be hesitant in competitions and lead to the same mistake you seek to avoid.
2. Ruminating about mistakes fosters negative emotions, lowers confidence, and interferes with decision making.
3. Dwelling on one mistake mentally takes you out of the game. You are no longer fully immersed in the present moment.

When you fail to refocus after a mistake, you give your opponents a significant mental edge.

### How to counter mistakes:

1. Understand mistakes are a part of the game – Every athlete makes **mistakes** from time to time. There is no perfect performance or perfect athlete. When you accept this fact, you will not be so hard on yourself after making a mistake in a competition. In addition, you will be more willing to take risks during a competition.
2. Let go – When you focus forward, you lessen the impact of mistakes. Letting go of mistakes keeps your confidence intact and prevents negative emotions from taking over your game.
3. Refocus on the next play – The goal is to minimize the amount of time between making a mistake and immersing yourself back in the game. The mental skill of refocusing is the hallmark of elite athletes.

In the AFC Championship Game, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes fumbled the ball in the third quarter, giving the Cincinnati Bengals the ball on their 45-yard line. The winner of this game would advance to the Super Bowl.

Instead of panicking, Mahomes remained poised and finished the game with 326 passing yards and two touchdowns, leading his team to a 23-20 victory.

After the victory, Mahomes talked about his mindset after the fumble.

**MAHOMES**: *“I think when you’ve been in some big games now a couple of years in a row, you’ve learned from your mistakes, and I felt like the year before, I let one **mistake** kind of compound into two, three, or whatever it was. Whereas this game, this last one, instead of worrying about, ‘Man, I made a huge mistake when we probably could’ve had a good chance of giving ourselves a big lead,’ (the mindset was) let’s not magnify it. Let’s move on to the next play.”*

The mistake itself is not the problem. The issue lies in the inability to react with composure after the mistake.

Since focusing is a skill, you can learn to become proficient in your ability to refocus. When you learn to refocus quickly, you will feel confident you can rebound after a **mistake** in stressful circumstances.

Acknowledge the mistake without self-judgment. “Instead of saying, “I’m so stupid for throwing an interception” tell yourself, “Look for the open receiver or scan the field for receivers in single coverage.”

Remind yourself that the mistake is in the past and you can’t change it or get it back–you can only move on to the next play.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Refocus After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [How To Refocus Quickly When Distracted](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/refocus-quickly-when-distracted/)
- [How to Prevent Mental Mistakes During Competition ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-prevent-mental-mistakes-during-competition/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Approach Intra-Team Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-approach-intra-team-competition/)

**Published:** February 24, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Returning to Competition After Injury](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/post-injury.jpg)

## Are you a Starter Who Worries about being Replaced?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Are you a Starter Who Worries about being Replaced?](#Are_you_a_Starter_Who_Worries_about_being_Replaced)
    - [However, many factors are under your direct control:](#However_many_factors_are_under_your_direct_control)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Maybe you can relate to the following…

You strive to be the best you can to earn a starting role. You feel proud of your improvement and accomplishment. Your hard work in practice has paid off, and you proved yourself to your **teammates** and coaches.

However, an up-and-coming teammate has shown great promise and is challenging you for your starting position.

In practice, you become over-focused on your teammate, worrying that you will be outperformed. When your coach compliments your **teammate**, you take it as a negative statement of your ability.

During games, you are afraid of making mistakes. Your fear of mistakes creates doubt in your ability. So, instead of playing aggressively, you hold back and are cautious during competitions. The result is under performance and even lower confidence.

Constantly looking over your shoulder and worrying about what coach might think and who may take over your role–prevents you from performing well when you need to.

Rather than worrying about the “other guy,” the best approach to intra-team competition is to focus on your development as an athlete.

The first step is to understand what you can and cannot control.

For example, you cannot control your **teammate’s** ability, motivation to improve, or work ethic. Also, you cannot control your coach’s decision-making.

### However, many factors are under your direct control:

\* You CAN control your attitude. 
\* You CAN control how you view competition with your teammates. 
\* You CAN control your work ethic and focus during practice. 
\* You CAN control improving your mental game. 
\* You CAN control your preparation for each game.
\* You CAN control your intensity and focus during games.
\* You CAN control how you respond to mistakes during a competition.
\* You CAN control being a team player and supporting your teammates.

When you focus on controllable aspects of your game, you will feel empowered, confident, and motivated to grow your game.

Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields was selected 11th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. Despite showing promise through his first two years in the league, many outside sources question his status on the **team**.

Now that the Bears have the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft, there are rumors that Chicago may replace Fields and select a quarterback with their pick.

Fields talked about staying focused on being the best quarterback he could be when asked how he felt about the rumors.

**FIELDS**: *“How I look at it is just controlling the controllables. No matter what happens with me, I can control what I can control, and that’s how I approach the game. That’s how I train for the game and how I carry myself within the game. It’s just those three aspects to where I kind of just have to look myself in the mirror and say what can I control? And it is what it is, and just move on and be the best quarterback I can be.”*

The path to potential requires controlling what you can control under your current circumstances and letting the chips fall where they may.

Focusing on yourself is the best way to achieve athletic excellence. Make a list of all parts of your game that you can control. Be specific.

Next to each item, write down how you will focus on each controllable. Review your list before practices, training sessions, and competitions.

Learn to let go of uncontrollables helps you focus on improvement!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Be Prepared When You Go in For a Starter ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/be-prepared-when-you-go-in-for-a-starter/)
- [Quarterback Jalen Hurts Ready to Compete, Even on the Bench](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/quarterback-jalen-hurts-ready-to-compete-even-on-the-bench/)
- [How to Resolve Conflicts with Your Teammates and Coaches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-resolve-conflicts-with-your-teammates-and-coaches/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How to Learn and Improve from Losses](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-learn-and-improve-from-losses/)

**Published:** March 2, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Learn and Improve from Losses](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/learning-from-losses.jpg)

## What do you do After a Loss? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What do you do After a Loss?](#What_do_you_do_After_a_Loss)
    - [The most practical perspective is “If you lose, learn.” ](#The_most_practical_perspective_is_%E2%80%9CIf_you_lose_learn%E2%80%9D)
    - [How do you learn from losses?](#How_do_you_learn_from_losses)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

It’s probably a question you haven’t given much thought.

Often after a **loss**, athletes allow their emotions to take over. The more invested you are in a competition, the more intense feelings you experience.

For example, losing a playoff game MIGHT generate much more intense and negative feelings. Failing to drop time after a taper MIGHT make you feel like your season was a waste.

Getting knocked out early in a tournament that you were favored to win MIGHT ruin your confidence over the next several weeks.

The significant word is MIGHT! Might is a conditional word, meaning it could either happen or not happen, and that condition is based on perspective.

Perspective is how you see an event. Your confidence may decrease when you see a **loss** as a negative statement about your ability. When you see your teammates drop time during a taper and you don’t, you might feel something is wrong with you.

When you are favored to win a tournament and don’t advance in the beginning rounds, you may see yourself as an athlete who chokes.

When you make negative assumptions after losing, you learn nothing about improving future performances.

### The most practical perspective is “If you lose, learn.” 

An example of learning from a **loss** is how Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts responded after the team’s 38-35 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs at the 2023 Super Bowl.

Hurts commented on the importance of finding the lessons from a loss.

HURTS: *“You either win or you learn. “You know, I think the beautiful part about it is, everyone experiences different pains, everyone’s experience is different, but you decide if you want to learn from it. You decide if you want to use that to be a teachable moment. And I know what I’ll do.”*

Even though Hurts set three NFL records in the game, Hurts is still committed to learning from the experience and growing his game.

### How do you learn from losses?

1. Take some time to settle your emotions. This period of time should be short. It’s essential to move on instead of ruminating about the game.
2. Objectively, reflect on the game. Identify what you did well and what you did not do well. This process should be objective. You are not looking to replay the bad events in your mind.
3. Identify how you can improve areas of your game that contributed to the loss.
4. Create an practice plan and what you will do to improve your game’s weaker aspects.

Feeling sorry for yourself never improves performance and often leads to repeating the same mistakes. The only strategy to improve from losses is to learn.

Evaluating your performance should become a habit that includes identifying mistakes, ineffective game plans, and mental **losses**, as well as pointing out positive aspects of your performance.

The evaluation process should be the same after every performance, regardless of the outcome.

You can’t control past losses, but you can always focus on improving your game from the lessons you learned.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How to Learn from Losses ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-learn-from-losses/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Learning from Losses, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How Elite Athletes Gain Trust in their Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-gain-trust-in-their-game/)

**Published:** June 30, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Elite Athletes Gain Trust in their Game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/trusting-your-game.jpg)

## Learning to be Comfortable with Your Game

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Learning to be Comfortable with Your Game](#Learning_to_be_Comfortable_with_Your_Game)
    - [What impedes feeling confident and trusting your game?](#What_impedes_feeling_confident_and_trusting_your_game)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What does it mean to be comfortable with your game? You can view “**comfort**” in two ways…

One way to view comfort is the acceptance of the status quo. In that sense, athletes train within a comfort zone impeding progress. To grow as an athlete, you should push past comfort and challenge yourself.

The phrase “getting comfortable with being uncomfortable” is often associated with the “push your limits” mindset.

Also, you can view “**comfort**” through a different lens, such as being comfortable with the speed of the game, being comfortable implementing new skills in competition, or being comfortable playing against top players or teams.

In this view, feeling comfortable builds **CONFIDENCE** and **TRUST** in your game.

### What impedes feeling confident and trusting your game?

\* **High Expectations** – When expectations are high, you will often feel that you need to be perfect to meet or exceed those expectations. These athletes heap an extraordinary amount of pressure on themselves and constantly battle with anxiety.

\* **Comparison to Other Athletes** – When you constantly use other athletes to gauge your abilities, you will feel you don’t measure up or lack the ability to perform at a high level. Many of these athletes drop out of sports at an early age.

\* **Persistent Fear** – Fear halts progress. When you give in to fear, such as fear of embarrassment, fear of making mistakes, fear of failure, or fear that you lack ability or talent, you will hold back in training, play cautiously, consistently under perform and fall short of your goals.

Feeling comfortable with your game comes down to three words: PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE! Practice is how you build repetition and muscle memory!

1. Practice with **Intensity** – Take advantage of your practice time to push yourself to the max. You will feel confident performing late in games because you are physically prepared.
2. Practice with **Focus** – The more you hone your skills in training, the more you trust your ability to perform those skills in competitions or under pressure.
3. Practice with a **Competitive Mindset** – Developing a competitive mindset starts in practice. You should approach practice with the same mentality you want to have in competitions. If you want to play aggressively in games, you should be aggressive in practice.

Take, for instance, Philadelphia 76ers’ second-year guard Jaden Springer. Springer has played only nine games in his first two seasons in the NBA…

Despite being the 28th overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft, Springer has played primarily with the Sixers’ affiliate Delaware Blue Coats of the G League. In the G League, Springer has played significant minutes, averaging 18.6 points per game as he continues to grow his game and confidence.

**SPRINGER**: *“I feel like I definitely feel more confident in my game. I know I put the work in. I got the whole team, the whole staff working with me, so I feel like that’s a big part of why I feel like I’m more comfortable out there.”*

Even his Blue Coats coach Coby Karl has seen significant growth in Springer’s game.

**KARL**: *“I think his decision-making has sped up. He’s getting used to spacing at the NBA game. He’s getting used to taking those 3-pointers that come to him. He’s not reluctant at all. He’s starting to build up his confidence and trust his work.”*

Trust in your game isn’t developed overnight. While working on your game, persist through the ups and downs. The payoff will be worth the work.

Athletes often attempt to work on too many aspects of their game simultaneously.

Identify 1-2 areas of your physical game and one aspect of your mental game that need improvement.

Set up a practice plan to help you improve these areas each day in your training. And of course, if you want help with your mental game improvement, please contact us.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Play Well When You Feel Uncomfortable](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-play-well-when-you-feel-uncomfortable/)
- [Have Trust in Your Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)
- [Trust and Confidence are Complementary](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/trust-and-confidence-are-complementary-to-top-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Trust in Your Skills for Athletes

---

### [How to Keep Calm after a Poor Officiating Call](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-calm-after-a-poor-officiating-call/)

**Published:** June 30, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Keep Calm after a Poor Officiating Call](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/keep-calm.jpg)

## Do Emotions Get the Best of you After a Bad Call? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do Emotions Get the Best of you After a Bad Call?](#Do_Emotions_Get_the_Best_of_you_After_a_Bad_Call)
    - [Runaway emotions hurt your performance in several ways:](#Runaway_emotions_hurt_your_performance_in_several_ways)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Do your emotional outbursts lead to a loss of focus and uncharacteristic mistakes?

You can’t take emotions out of the game. By nature, we are emotional beings. However, when you don’t reel in your emotions, they will intensify, and your performance will decline rapidly.

For example, Mary S. is a high school basketball player. After she received two questionable fouls early in the first quarter, she quickly became angry. She felt the referee was singling her out and not calling fouls on defenders covering her.

She lost her focus and turned the ball over three times afterward, leading to scores from the opposing team. In an act of frustration, she committed a hard foul on a player on a breakaway at the end of the quarter, and her coach pulled her from the game.

She was never able to find her rhythm for the rest of the game due to her inability to regain control of her emotions.

### Runaway emotions hurt your performance in several ways:

- Negative thoughts and negative emotions go hand in hand. Thoughts such as “This official has something against me” intensify negative emotions.
- When you are bothered by bad calls, you lose your focus. Instead of focusing on performance cues, you are angry about past calls.
- Intense emotions cause anxiety and heightened physical arousal. Your breathing becomes shallow; your heart beats more rapidly; your muscles become tight, and your energy level declines.
- When you feel officials are being unfair or singling you out, you will expect additional bad calls against you. As a result, you will play cautiously for the remainder of the competition.
- You make an increased number of uncharacteristic mistakes. Your technical game is thrown off, and your performance spirals downward quickly.

Managing emotions is an essential mental skill for elite performers. When you brush off bad calls and keep your emotions in check, you will be able to maintain your poise, redirect your thoughts, regain your focus, and perform at a high level.

In a 108-100 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, Toronto Raptors’ Fred VanVleet was upset after receiving a technical foul. After the game, where the Raptors were called for 23 fouls, VanVleet voiced his displeasure with the officiating.

**VANVLEET**: “You come out tonight, you’re competing pretty hard, third quarter, I get a tech, \[it\] changes the whole dynamic of the game, changes the whole flow of the game.”

In the postgame press conference, VanVleet criticized the NBA’s officiating and believes he has become the target of one referee in particular.

**VANVLEET**: “On most nights, out of the three (referees), there’s one or two that just \[mess up\] the game up, and it’s been like that a couple of games in a row.”

One bad call doesn’t mess up the game. Your reaction to the call messes up your mindset and thus performance.

When you learn to manage your emotions, you can refocus your attention on the game and perform like you do when calm.

You want to stay in the moment and not dwell on the call. You do this by refocusing when you notice your mind is in the past.

You can also take a few deep breaths from your abdomen combined with self-talk, such as “it’s behind me, move on” or “that’s in the past, let’s go.”

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Bounce Back after a Bad Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-bounce-back-after-a-bad-performance/)
- [Do You Always Have Bad Luck in Sports?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-always-have-bad-luck-in-sports/)
- [How to Let Go of Bad Shots And Stay Composed](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-let-go-of-bad-shots-and-stay-composed/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Athletes  in the Zone to Perform Well - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-athletes-have-to-be-in-the-zone-to-perform-well/)

**Published:** March 17, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## The Answer Might Surprise You

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Answer Might Surprise You](#The_Answer_Might_Surprise_You)
- [Watch this video to learn more:](#Watch_this_video_to_learn_more)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)

Do you feel like you should always be **in the zone** during competition?

Watch this video to learn how to [**find your flow and get in the zone**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9K_nbavFpE "find your flow and get in the zone") when you may not have your best game that day.

## Watch this video to learn more:

**Video on Performing in the Zone**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-team-drama/)[The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)**
- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)[Having Fun While Performing at Your Best](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/having-fun-while-performing-at-your-best/)**
- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)**

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

---

### [Playing in the Flow all the Time?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/playing-in-the-flow-all-the-time/)

**Published:** March 17, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, Dr. Cohn answers a question from a reader playing in the flow all the time. Here’s the question of the week:

WILLIAM: *“I think to play well, I have to be in flow. But I can’t seem to enter flow at will. How do I always enter into the flow for every time I compete?”*

### Listen to this episode to learn more:

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Listen to this episode to learn more:](#Listen_to_this_episode_to_learn_more)
- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Routines Help You Get into the Flow](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-routines-help-you-get-into-the-flow/)
- [Flow and Fun in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/flow-and-fun-in-sports/)
- [What Is Flow And How Does It Affect Your Game?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-is-flow-and-how-does-it-affect-your-game/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How to Become a Sports Cinderella Story Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-become-a-sports-cinderella-story-team/)

**Published:** March 24, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Become a Sports Cinderella Story Team ](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/cinderella-sports-story.jpg)

## Be the Team that Catches the League by Surprise

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Be the Team that Catches the League by Surprise](#Be_the_Team_that_Catches_the_League_by_Surprise)
    - [Teams that become “Cinderella” stories have several common characteristics:](#Teams_that_become_%E2%80%9CCinderella%E2%80%9D_stories_have_several_common_characteristics)
    - [Developing an elite team mindset requires several steps:](#Developing_an_elite_team_mindset_requires_several_steps)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What are the makings of a “Cinderella” story? In sports, we hear inspiring stories of Cinderella teams upsetting highly-ranked teams or advancing deep in tournaments.

Teams that become Cinderella stories have the mindset that they will battle until the end, no matter who they are playing, where they are playing, or when they are playing.

These teams are so focused on their game that they are not deterred by the ranking or accomplishments of their opponents.

What separates teams that become Cinderella stories from teams that live up to low expectations?

Teams that become Cinderella stories do not see themselves as “Cinderella” teams. The term “Cinderella team” implies a team has a slim chance of winning.

Teams that become Cinderella stories have supreme, stable confidence in their abilities and don’t see themselves as underdogs. They believe they have the same chance to win as their opponents.

### Teams that become “Cinderella” stories have several common characteristics:

\* Are united and have a common goal. Together, team members pull in the same direction with one objective.

\* Trust one another and hold each other to a high standard. Team members expect each player, including themselves, to give their all in their preparation, practice, training, and competition.

\* Supportive and encourage each other. When one team member is down, the others pick up the slack.

\* Are hungry to achieve success and not afraid to put in the work.

\* Are confident and possess team mental toughness to overcome obstacles.

\* Believe anything is possible and compete until the final whistle.

In the 2023 NCAA March Madness basketball tournament, fifteenth-seed Princeton upset seventh-seed Missouri, 78-63, to advance to the Sweet 16.

Commentators have labeled Princeton’s run as a Cinderella story. The Princeton Tigers are only the fourth fifteenth-seed to reach the Sweet 16 in men’s March Madness history.

Princeton dominated most of the game, only trailing 3-2 in the opening minutes of the first half. The 15-point win was the largest margin victory in tournament history for a 15 seed.

Senior guard Blake Peters scored 17 points, including 5-of-8 shots from the three-point line.

Peters attributed Princeton’s success to belief, unshakeable confidence, and team unity. Peters did not see the victory as an upset.

**PETERS**: *“I have no words for you. I have the best teammates in the world. When we go out and believe in each other, anything is possible. I know it’s cliche, but anything is possible.”*

Princeton’s mindset has given themselves a mental edge over its opponents. The team does not attribute their success to luck. Princeton put in the work and honed its mindset throughout the season.

When you pay attention to mental and physical details, you will always have the chance to succeed and accomplish your objectives.

### **Developing an elite team mindset requires several steps:**

\* Work diligently in practice 
\* Develop trust among teammates.
\* Build team cohesion
\* Put team first over individual goals
\* Challenge each other in practice

The more your team works together to develop a positive team mentality, the greater the chance for team success, no matter who is the opposing team.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Thrive as an Underdog in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-thrive-as-an-underdog-in-sports/)
- [Mental Toughness as an Underdog](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-as-an-underdog/)
- [How to Perform Well on the Court in Big Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-well-on-the-court-in-big-moments/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness

---

### [How to Remain Confident When Behind](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-remain-confident-when-behind/)

**Published:** June 30, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Remain Confident When Behind](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-when-down.jpg)

## Does your Confidence Depend on Winning?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Does your Confidence Depend on Winning?](#Does_your_Confidence_Depend_on_Winning)
    - [True confidence is not dependent upon circumstances.](#True_confidence_is_not_dependent_upon_circumstances)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

When teams are winning, playing with confidence is easy. You don’t second-guess decisions when you are ahead. You play loose and free and are not adversely affected by one or two mistakes.

In fact, when you play with the lead, you and your teammates play as a cohesive unit and feel pretty confident you will win.

However, many teams react differently when they are trailing in a game. These teams lose confidence, have difficulty focusing and blame each other for mistakes during the game.

Teams trailing in a game often give less effort and become easily frustrated.

Why do some teams change their mindset when they are losing? Isn’t it possible to maintain focus, confidence, and poise despite trailing in a game?

Championship teams play with the same mindset, whether they have a lead or are losing by ten points. Their confidence remains stable. Championship teams focus on opportunities rather than what happened in the previous possession.

When championship teams are losing, they are still mentally in the game, immersed in the moment. They are laser-focused and do not feel defeated despite their circumstances.

\*Championship baseball and softball teams focus on one pitch at a time.

\*Championship basketball teams focus on one possession at a time.

\*Championship hockey teams focus on one play at a time.

### True confidence is not dependent upon circumstances.

The reason some teams continue to play hard and remain confident throughout the entirety of a game is that their mindset never changes!

In the 2023 NCAA basketball tournament, Florida Atlantic University beat Kansas State, 79-76, to advance to the Final Four for the first time in program history.

With 8 minutes and 37 seconds remaining in the game, Florida Atlantic was trailing by six points. Nevertheless, Florida Atlantic kept its same aggressive mindset rather than panicking.

FAU went on a 15-1 run that propelled the 9-seed FAU to a win over the 3-seed Kansas State.

FAU Junior guard Bryan Greenlee commented on the team’s mindset when trailing in a game.

**GREENLEE**: *“We don’t really get rattled in situations where we’re down. We’ve been in too many of them. So just taking it one possession at a time and focusing on getting stops.”*

The most significant revelation into the mindset of playing from behind comes from FAU head coach Dusty May.

**MAY**: *“\[We\] weren’t afraid to lose today and go home. \[We’re\] not afraid of failure. We lay it on the floor, and whatever happens after that is more than enough because we’ve done that every single day. So there’s never a moment when we get tight because we’re not afraid of what happens if we don’t get it done.”*

Fear of losing is a focus on the future. Thoughts of your mistakes are a focus on the past. Confidence exists in the now or in looking to make the most of your opportunities in the present.

During competition, confidence is at its highest point in the present moment.

Therefore, maintaining your confidence throughout a competition is a matter of focusing on making one positive play at a time.

Avoid judging your game each play as this only hurts confidence. Look for ways to gain momentum or shift momentum in your favor.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Do You Or Your Team Have The Comeback Mindset?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)
- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How Visualization Helps Boost Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-boost-confidence/)

**Published:** April 7, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Visualization Helps Boost Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/visualization-and-confidence.jpg)

## Belief, Confidence, and Accomplishment

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Belief, Confidence, and Accomplishment](#Belief_Confidence_and_Accomplishment)
    - [To build belief, athletes have a powerful mental tool at their disposal…VISUALIZATION!](#To_build_belief_athletes_have_a_powerful_mental_tool_at_their_disposal%E2%80%A6VISUALIZATION)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

When you believe you can achieve a goal, you build confidence to go after that goal. When you have unshakeable **confidence**, you are more resilient, overcome obstacles and increase the likelihood of accomplishing your goal.

The relationship between belief, confidence, and accomplishment is cyclical.

Belief sets the cycle in motion, but what creates belief?

Indeed, you have heard the term “seeing is believing.” This phrase refers to experience. When you are successful in an attempt, you can see yourself capturing another win, another championship, another national cut, or another playoff win.

What if you have NEVER won a title?

What if your team has NEVER advanced to the post-season?

What if you NEVER achieved a national cut?

How can you believe if you have never seen yourself accomplishing a significant athletic achievement? How can you believe without seeing?

Belief is the sticking point for many athletes. The lack of belief causes many athletes to become stuck in a rut of mediocrity.

Without belief, these athletes lose **confidence** in their abilities. Their goal seems impractical or impossible, so they give up working for it at the first setback.

### To build belief, athletes have a powerful mental tool at their disposal…VISUALIZATION!

Visualization is a technique where you create a mental movie or mental images of accomplishing a future goal. When you regularly visualize performing successfully, you increase your belief and embed those images in your mind.

Visualization helps you feel prepared to handle the pressure of the moment. When you visualize success, you build the **self-confidence** necessary to accomplish your goals.

Simply stated, visualization is the “seeing” that helps you believe.

Let’s look at the following 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament example.

Iowa defeated Louisville, 97-83, in their elite eight matchup to advance to their first Final Four since 1993. Not one player on the Iowa squad was even born when Iowa accomplished that feat.

That did not stop junior forward Caitlin Clark from believing. Clark accomplished something no male or female player in Division I NCAA Tournament history by registering the first-ever 40-point triple-double.

Clark had often visualized herself winning this game, which helped her develop unshakeable **confidence**.

**CLARK**: *“I believed, and I visualized \[being\] in this press conference with a hat and a shirt around me. So here we are… I’ve dreamed of this moment since I was a little girl. I’ve always wanted to take a team to the Final Four and be in these moments and have confetti fall down on me.”*

Seeing is believing. Visualization gives you the feeling you have done it before and can do it again.

Visualization uses specific and vivid images that elicit positive emotions and builds your confidence.

To start visualizing, write down vivid details of the event you want to experience success. Use all your senses so you can immerse yourself in the experience. Include how you will feel after accomplishing your goal.

Vivid images leave a lasting impression on your mind, so when the event arises, you will feel that you have accomplished this feat before.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Pros Use Visualization to Improve Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-pros-use-visualization-to-improve-success/)
- [How Elite Athletes Use Visualization ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-use-visualization/)
- [Visualization Can Give You a Mental Edge](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/visualization-can-give-you-a-mental-edge/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Build Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-stable-confidence-2/)

**Published:** April 14, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Build Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/stable-confidence-1.jpg)

## How to Shape and Improve your Athletic Confidence

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Shape and Improve your Athletic Confidence](#How_to_Shape_and_Improve_your_Athletic_Confidence)
    - [Mental Development and Growth](#Mental_Development_and_Growth)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Confidence is not something that happens to you. Building confidence is an action. If you do nothing, your confidence becomes dependent on results.

When you are not an active participant in growing your confidence, one day, your confidence will be up, and the next, it will be down, as if you are on a confidence roller coaster.

Most athletes think winning a game or tournament builds confidence, but that’s not always the case. Of course, winning can help you believe you can win again.

However, athletes with low confidence may attribute their success to luck.

Those athletes see the victory as a “one-and-done” event. They expect to return to their previous level of performance. In these instances, athletes feel confidence is not within their direct control.

Conversely, athletes with stable confidence spend time actively building self-belief. When these athletes win, they attribute their successes to their preparation, effort, and mental training.

When you understand confidence requires action, you will commit to proactively building it and keeping it.

Even a loss or bad performance won’t deplete your confidence. With stable, high confidence, you will learn from the experience, look for ways to improve for the next competition, then go to practice and get to work.

As you can see, the value of this mental skill is immeasurable to your athletic and personal development.

### Mental Development and Growth

Let’s take a look at Philadelphia Sixers guard Jaden Springer.

Springer was selected with the 28th pick in the 2021 NBA draft by the Sixers. In his first year, the Sixers assigned Springer to their G League affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats.

In his second year with Delaware, Springer consciously decided to build his confidence, and his dedication paid off. Springer was the second-leading scorer for Delaware and helped the Blue Coats win the NBA G League title.

After winning the championship game, Springer was named the most valuable player. Springer grew his confidence by utilizing various methods, such as intense training, elite-level preparation, attention to detail, and developing positive body posture.

**SPRINGER**: *“Really details, man — the little things, \[such as\] my base, my foundation, my posture. Even just moving through (drills), nothing lazy — don’t have any bad posture, hanging over. Just keep your body up straight. Stay focused. And he always coaches the little things — how I carry myself, how I walk in. All that stuff matters.”*

You should never underestimate the impact of even the slightest improvement in confidence. As with any technical or mental skill, improvement is within your direct control.

If your goal is to create high confidence, you need an action plan.

What steps will you take to improve your confidence? What strategies will you use? How will you keep confidence each week no matter your results?

Who will you enlist to help you with your goal? How will you measure your progress?

When you design an action plan, you are more likely to stick to your plan and focus your efforts on accomplishing your goal. Contact us if you want help developing the confidence plan.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How Visualization Helps Boost Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-boost-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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---

### [How to Win Close Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-win-close-competitions/)

**Published:** April 20, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Win Close Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/how-to-win.jpg)

## How do Long Games Impact your Performance?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How do Long Games Impact your Performance?](#How_do_Long_Games_Impact_your_Performance)
    - [How to win the game of attrition?](#How_to_win_the_game_of_attrition)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

More than physical factors, mental factors affect the outcome of close games. Back-and-forth games are often a game of attrition or who can wear down their opponent.

Some athletes feel more comfortable during close **competitions** than other athletes.

For example, some basketball players are better able to focus when the lead changes hands several times.

Some golfers remain confident when they rise or fall on the leaderboard.

You can battle until the end of a competition when mentally prepared for tough competitions.

We recently received an email from an experienced tennis player who asked:

“How can I stay confident, calm, and focused during a close, long tennis match? The longer the match goes, the more I become nervous, which throws off my game.”

For many athletes, as highly-contested **competitions** go on, the fear of mistakes and losing becomes the focal point.

Instead of trying to score, you try not to mess up.

You play it safe at critical moments in the competition, but the stress causes your body to tighten, increasing errors and bad decisions.

The player with a mentally tougher mindset during competitive contests often wins by physically and mentally wearing down their opponent.

### How to win the game of attrition?

- **Fully Prepare** — When you are prepared for battle, you will feel comfortable even as **competitions** drag on.
- **Work on your Confidence** — Confidence doesn’t appear out of the clear blue sky. It is a skill that demands attention and effort.
- **Be Determined** — Playing each point with resolve wears down opponents and helps you grind out the victory.
- **Remain Patient** — One play doesn’t determine the outcome of a contest. If you lose a point, reset, refocus, maintain your poise, and battle for the next point.

For example, Daniil Medvedev saved two match points and beat Alexander Zverev 3-6, 7-5, 7-6(7) at the 2023 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters for a third-round victory. The match was back-and-forth in both the second and third sets.

However, Medvedev continued to battle, outlasted Zverev, and won the deciding set tie-break.

**MEDVEDEV**: “That was a crazy match. He served two times for the match…I tried to watch a lot of tennis before playing in this tournament, and one thing that I saw is you can come back at any moment…That’s what I managed to do.”

In all sports, victory doesn’t always go to the most skilled, the more talented athlete or the team with a better record. The player that often wins is the one who has strong mental skills and is mentally tough enough to wear their opponent down.

Adding Mental Toughness Training into your regimen increases your chances of winning the battle of attrition during close **competitions**.

In other words, mental training gives you a distinct advantage over your opponent, especially in the closing minutes of a competition.

It is essential to remind yourself that the player or team who wins a **competition** is the one who is better able to battle under pressure.

Winning the war of attrition is a matter of winning the small battles. When you win the majority of the small battles, you guarantee yourself a victory.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/)
- [How to Start Firing on All Cylinders](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-start-firing-on-all-cylinders/)
- [How to Perform Well When Leading the Match](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-well-when-leading-the-match/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

**Published:** April 27, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/boots-confidence.jpg)

## Do You See Yourself as a Confident Athlete?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do You See Yourself as a Confident Athlete?](#Do_You_See_Yourself_as_a_Confident_Athlete)
    - [What factor most affects confidence?](#What_factor_most_affects_confidence)
    - [How to increase your level of preparation?](#How_to_increase_your_level_of_preparation)
    - [To build confidence for your next competition, ask yourself:](#To_build_confidence_for_your_next_competition_ask_yourself)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Does your confidence go up and down throughout the season?

For many athletes, confidence is dependent upon their circumstances or opponents.

When these athletes compete against lower-ranked opponents, they “feel” confident. When their chances of success are high, they “feel” confident.

However, when they face undefeated opponents or competitors they have never beaten, they “feel” less confident.

The reality is that confidence comes from within. It is more than just a “feeling.” It’s a strong belief in your abilities, strengths, and ability to perform across a wide range of circumstances.

Confidence is controllable; it is within your power to build a strong belief in your ability to perform. This level of belief is referred to as “stable confidence,” or believing you can perform to your capabilities regardless of circumstances.

### What factor most affects confidence?

The answer is quite simple…PREPARATION!

For example, if you decide to take a week off practice or merely go through the motions in training, you may question if you will be on top of your game. You might feel a lack of conditioning will hurt you late in a competition.

You may doubt your technical game and lack the trust in your skills to perform under pressure. This lack of preparation detracts from your confidence.

On the flip side, increased preparation improves confidence. When you are prepared, you are comfortable with your skills, improving your trust.

Preparation also leads to a sense of control. Preparation reduces anxiety because you are ready for most potential circumstances before and during a game.

Being prepared allows you to respond positively to the challenges throughout a competition. Self-belief provides the reassurance that you can handle anything that comes your way.

### How to increase your level of preparation?

- Work on your technical skills
- Improve your conditioning, strength, speed, agility, reaction times, etc.
- Pay attention to your recovery
- Implement a mental skills training program
- Visualize performing at your peak
- Gameplan for each opponent

Victory often goes to the athlete or team who is most prepared, not necessarily the team with a better record or the athlete who is ranked higher.

In the 2023 NBA playoffs’ first round, the Boston Celtics beat the Atlanta Hawks 112-99. The Celtics led by as many as 32 points in the game.

Even though the Celtics dominated throughout the game, Celtics forward Jaylen Brown stated Boston needs to prepare even more for the next game.

**BROWN**: “We expect to get \[Atlanta’s\] best shot next game. Can’t take a team for granted. I expect for them the next game to be a little bit more prepared, so we’ve got to be a little more prepared as well.”

Preparation is a controllable factor that gives you a distinct advantage over your competition.

Out-preparing your competition gives you the confidence to out-work and out-perform your opponents throughout a game.

Tip for Building Confidence Through Preparation

### To build confidence for your next competition, ask yourself:

- What do I need to do to prepare for the next game?
- What must I do to perform at my peak?
- How can I prepare for adversity or being slightly off my game?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Consistent Preparation is Key to Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-consistent-preparation-is-key-to-performance/)
- [Athletes Who Worry About Preparation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-worry-about-preparation/)
- [Anticipation and Mental Preparation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-expect-the-unexpected/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/)

**Published:** May 5, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/pressure-moments.jpg)

## Do You Crumble During Crunch Time?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do You Crumble During Crunch Time?](#Do_You_Crumble_During_Crunch_Time)
    - [A negative mindset lays the foundation for fear and anxiety….](#A_negative_mindset_lays_the_foundation_for_fear_and_anxiety%E2%80%A6)
    - [A positive mindset sets the tone for success…](#A_positive_mindset_sets_the_tone_for_success%E2%80%A6)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Time and time again, we hear from athletes who talk about having difficulties competing under pressure. These athletes believe the ability to handle pressure is an inborn trait.

However, there is no such thing as a “clutch” gene. Performing successfully under pressure is a learnable mental skill.

Even if you see yourself as the “nervous” type, you can learn the mental skills of managing nerves, competing with confidence, focusing under pressure, and performing at your peak at critical moments in a competition.

Often athletes brainwash themselves by repeating negative and counter-productive thoughts. Reversing your negative thought trend is the first step in performing positively under pressure.

For example, if you can make a 3-pointer in practice, you can make a 3-pointer late in a game. If you can stick the landing off the balance beam in practice, you can do the same in gymnastics meets. If you can make ten-foot putts regularly in practice, you can sink a ten-foot putt on the 18th hole in a tournament.

If you dedicate time and effort to developing your mental game, you can perform consistently and successfully in competition.

Does that guarantee you will never miss a shot, landing, or putt? No. Perfection is unreasonable. However, solid mental skills dramatically increase your chances for success under pressure.

Athletes who rise to the occasion and athletes who crumble under pressure often have similar physical traits and athletic abilities. However, the difference-maker is an athlete’s mindset.

### A negative mindset lays the foundation for fear and anxiety….

Athletes who crumble under pressure:

\* Are not ready for the moment
\* Have images of missing or failing
\* Fear failure and lack confidence in their abilities
\* Are not comfortable because they never practice pressure situations
\* Remember and relive past failures
\* Expect to fail because they failed in the past
\* Are distracted by uncontrollable circumstances

### A positive mindset sets the tone for success…

Athletes who rise to the occasion:

\* Prepare for pressure moments
\* Visualize playing at their peak late in competitions
\* Look forward to challenges
\* Feel comfortable because they practice performing under pressure
\* Have a short memory when it comes to misses, mistakes, and losses
\* Believe the previous moment does dictate performance in the present
\* Focus on what they can control

Take, for example, Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James. In Game 4 of the 2023 NBA playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies, James scored with less than 30 seconds in overtime to lead the Lakers to victory.

Throughout his career, James has worked to develop a positive mindset to help him compete under pressure.

**JAMES**: *“These are the moments that I love. I love the postseason. I’ve been a part of a lot of the games, and I just love being able to make plays and be out there with my teammates.”*

James doesn’t deny that more is at stake in the playoffs, but he has prepared mentally and physically for those moments.

**JAMES**: *“The closeout game is always the hardest game of the series. It’s the most tiring one. It’s the most brutal one. And we better be ready for it. And I think we’ll be ready for it.”*

The key to performing at your peak under pressure is to be ready for the moment by learning mental skills and how to apply those skills in competitive situations.

No magic potion exists for performing well under pressure. Competing at your peak in competition requires the mental skills of confidence, focus, managing emotions, trust in skills and dealing with fear of failure.

To take your practice game to competition with the same focus and freedom requires your trust in your skills. And to do this, you must let go of worry about the outcome and what others think.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Perform Big in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-big-in-pressure-moments/)
- [Is Pressure Your Friend or Foe?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/is-pressure-your-friend-or-foe/)
- [Performing Well Under Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Game of Golf, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Mindset Tips for Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-playoffs/)

**Published:** May 20, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mindset Tips for Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/play-off-tips.jpg)

## What is Your Mindset During a Playoff Series? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What is Your Mindset During a Playoff Series?](#What_is_Your_Mindset_During_a_Playoff_Series)
    - [How does the One-Game-at-a-Time mentality affect playoff performance?](#How_does_the_One-Game-at-a-Time_mentality_affect_playoff_performance)
    - [To help you refocus after a playoff game, ask yourself three questions:](#To_help_you_refocus_after_a_playoff_game_ask_yourself_three_questions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Are your emotions dictated by winning or losing?

Many players ride the roller coaster of emotions during a playoff series. When they win, they feel emotionally energized. When they lose, they feel deflated and anxious.

Likewise, if players had a better-than-average performance, they expect to be on top of their game when the Series resumes. They will feel confident, psyched, and play aggressively from the first minute.

They will compete, take calculated risks and look to contribute to their team in any way possible.

For example, a basketball player coming off a win or top performance will look for his shot early in the game, fight for rebounds and ramp up the defensive pressure.

A baseball player will be aggressive in the batter’s box and confident he can drive the ball to all fields.

Players in this position have the mindset, “If I did it once, I could do it again.”

However, if the player under performed, they may expect more of the same.

Instead of trying for a breakout game, they will be hesitant, flat-footed, anxious, and lack energy and focus. Instead of looking for ways to contribute to the team’s success, they try not to be the reason their team loses. These players have a fearful mindset.

For example, a soccer player who under performed in a tournament may be timid during the next game and fearful of making mistakes.

Playoffs already have an added incentive…

One game can determine if you advance to the next round or are eliminated. For that reason, the One-Game-at-a-Time mentality is crucial for team success.

### How does the One-Game-at-a-Time mentality affect playoff performance?

- **Allows for closure** – Once a game is finished, you can process your performance and make the necessary adjustments.
- **Provides a transition** – Once you process the feedback, it helps you to refocus on the next game.
- **Enhances preparation** – After a game, a positive mindset assists you in dedicating your full attention to preparing for the next game.

One example of how mindset affects playoff performance is the 2023 NBA playoffs. In the second round of the playoffs, the Philadelphia Sixers faced off against the defending Eastern Conference champion Boston Celtics.

After beating the Celtics in a dominant performance in Game 5, 115-103, the Sixers were stoic as they walked off the court.

There was no celebration for Sixers center Joel Embiid. Embiid’s mindset was to get back to work and prepare for a Game 6 battle.

**EMBIID**: *“It’s not over. We have to get one more. All of us. We have to show up. What we did tonight it’s easier said than done. But we have to do it again.”*

You should see each game as a stand-alone competition during playoffs and tournaments. The previous game, whether a win or loss, should have little impact on your next performance.

With a one-game-at-a-time mentality, your next game becomes a new opportunity for you to perform at your highest level.

### To help you refocus after a playoff game, ask yourself three questions:

1. What can I learn from this game?
2. How will I apply this feedback to practice and the next game?
3. How will I prepare for the next game to perform at my peak?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [What’s the Best Mindset for Playoffs?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-your-playoff-mindset/)
- [How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [Cleveland Cavilers Mindset For Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/cleveland-cavilers-mindset-for-playoffs/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

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### [Why Choking Hurts Athletic Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-choking-hurts-athletic-performance/)

**Published:** May 12, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Why Choking Hurts Athletic Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/chocking-as-an-athlete.jpg)

## No One Wants to be Labeled a “Choker.”

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [No One Wants to be Labeled a “Choker.”](#No_One_Wants_to_be_Labeled_a_%E2%80%9CChoker%E2%80%9D)
    - [Even Hall of Fame kickers have missed extra points late in games.](#Even_Hall_of_Fame_kickers_have_missed_extra_points_late_in_games)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

 Some athletes use the term “choking” to describe athletes who crumble under pressure.

For example, the basketball player who misses two free throws with seconds left in the game and down by one point.

Or the baseball closer who melts down in the 9th inning and gives up four runs to blow the save.

Or the football kicker who shanks the extra point to tie the game in the fourth quarter.

What is choking? Choking is under performing in pressure moments of a game or competition.

The problem does not lie in your ability to perform. When left unchecked, the issue is that pressure becomes overwhelming and interferes with performing in the moment.

More problematic is when YOU “label” yourself a “choker.”

The reality is the best basketball players have missed free throws late in a game. Most baseball pitchers have had innings when everything seems to unravel.

### Even Hall of Fame kickers have missed extra points late in games.

However, when you label something, you accept it as truth and set the expectation for future results.

Let’s go back to our basketball example. “I am a choker” means “I will probably miss these free throws.”

Those thoughts create anxiety and bring about images of past missed attempts. When you are anxious, your forearms tighten, which throws off your technique.

Conversely, if you had no expectations going to the free throw line, you would be free to focus on each shot separately.

You may still feel jitters, but not so much that your mechanics are affected. In this scenario, you didn’t learn to shoot better; you just improved your ability to manage pressure, focus and stay physically relaxed.

The key to performing under pressure is managing nerves or preventing your “nerves” from building to performance-declining anxiety. Learning to reel in your nerves is a valuable mental skill worth developing.

World No. 3 tennis player Jessica Pegula dislikes the word ‘choking.’ Pegula believes that the choker label hurts an athlete’s identity and performance. Pegula views tough losses as an inability to manage nerves when the momentum shifts in a competition.

**PEGULA**: “Choking? It’s very harsh. It’s a harsh word. I think everyone kind of does to some extent. I think it’s just because you get nervous…I think it’s more of a momentum shift and maybe more nerves and just how you’re kind of handling those nerves.”

When your nerves get out of hand, you panic and lose focus. Athletes perform best when they can stay calm and maintain a sense of objectivity as they compete.

**PEGULA**: “Some days, there’s no rhyme or reason. Some days you can feel like you’re a little tense, and for some reason, you can feel like maybe the momentum is shifting in a match, and you’re just putting a lot of pressure on yourself to do the right thing. I think maybe instead of thinking clearly, you’re more panicking a little bit instead of trying to think of the big picture.”

In Pegula’s perspective, all athletes can learn to manage their nerves and perform at their peak under pressure.

Knowing you can manage your nerves in any situation will make you feel empowered and confident under any challenging situations.

Since all athletes experience nerves during a competition, it’s important to know how to perform at a high level when you feel the pressure to produce.

When performing your best, what helps you manage your nerves? Are you locked into the moment? Are you fully confident in your skills? Do you play on auto-pilot?

You want to use past performances to help you find the ideal mindset for managing nerves.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Are You a Choker in Big Games?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/are-you-a-gamer-or-a-choker-in-big-games/)
- [Discover What Type of Athlete You Are](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/discover-what-type-of-athlete-you-are/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Athletes who Choke, Confidence in Sports Tips

---

### [Distracting Parents Who Coach from the Side - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/distracting-parents-who-coach-from-the-sideline/)

**Published:** May 17, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Do you coach young athletes whose parents are constantly yelling and coaching from the sideline? Dr. Patrick Cohn explains why it is not helpful for parents to yell during games and how to **[set ground rules ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAeELRUdpdw "set ground rules ")**at the start of the season as a coach.

## Watch to Learn More: 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Watch to Learn More:](#Watch_to_Learn_More)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

**Parents Coaching on the Side**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Annoying Sports Parents Who Yell from the Sideline**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/annoying-sports-parents-who-yell-from-the-sideline/)
- [**Concentration Tips for Sports Kids and Parents**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/concentration-tips-for-sports-kids-and-parents-2/)
- [**How Parents Who Are Coaches Can Instill Confidence in Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-parents-who-are-coaches-can-instill-confidence-in-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Video

---

### [Annoying Sports Parents Who Yell from the Sideline](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/annoying-sports-parents-who-yell-from-the-sideline/)

**Published:** May 18, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this episode, Dr. Cohn answers a question from a reader about how sports parents can be annoying to other parents watching their kids play. Here’s the question of the week:

COACH LESLIE: “What do you do when you have a parent on the sideline that is constantly yelling to the kids on the field to pass the ball, cross it or boot it? Parents are coaching the kids on what to do and also it doesn’t allow the kids to think on their own.”

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

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- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)[Having Fun While Performing at Your Best](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/having-fun-while-performing-at-your-best/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

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---

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Parents Success Tips

---

### [How Consistent Preparation is Key to Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-consistent-preparation-is-key-to-performance/)

**Published:** May 25, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Consistent Preparation is Key to Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/consistence.jpg)

## Does Performance Change Based on your Opponent?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Does Performance Change Based on your Opponent?](#Does_Performance_Change_Based_on_your_Opponent)
    - [Prepare for the Upcoming Match](#Prepare_for_the_Upcoming_Match)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you prepare or train differently when you are the underdog as opposed to being the one favored to win?

Many athletes or athletic teams prepare and play to the level of their competition.

The problem with inconsistent preparation is that it leads to inconsistent performance.

When you take an opponent for granted, you are claiming victory before the competition even begins. You see lowered-ranked opponents as easy victories.

Instead of preparing for competitions with equal importance, you tend to ease into some competitions and give your opponents a significant mental edge.

While your opponents start the competition in attack mode, you are overconfident. You allow your opponents to take advantage of your lack of preparation.

You may think you can turn up the intensity at any time, but often it’s too late, and you suffer an upset loss.

However, if you approach each competition equally, you will train, prepare, and approach every opponent as a competitive challenge.

Instead of focusing on who you compete against, you will focus on how you prepare. You will evaluate performance according to your level of improvement, not merely wins and loses.

For example, the Philadelphia Eagles won 14 games during the 2022-23 NFL season and earned the right to compete in the Super Bowl.

### Prepare for the Upcoming Match

Despite the team’s success during the previous year, they refuse to see themselves as favorites for the upcoming season. Eagles’ linebacker Nakobe Dean stated the team’s mindset for the season is to see themselves as the hunter, not the hunted.

“We’ve got a lot of underdogs on the team, a lot of people who play with a lot of chips on their shoulders, so we’ll never sit back and act like we’re the one with the targets on our backs. We don’t look at it like we’ve got the target on our back. We look at it like we’re the ones out there hunting,” said Dean.

Being on the hunt is a proactive approach to competition. In other words, you prepare to be your best for every competition, regardless of your opponent.

This approach to competition helps you maintain high, stable confidence because you have prepared to the best of your ability.

You are hungry for success no matter what happened yesterday, so you are willing to put in the time, effort, and focus to lift your game higher every day.

Success starts with preparation. When mentally, physically, technically, and emotionally prepared, you enter the competition with a significant edge over your opponents.

Paying attention to details takes teams from good to great and inconsistent athletes to peak performers.

The goal of competing against a lower-ranked opponent is not to prevent an emotional letdown.

Be sure you are focused, ready to complete, confident, and in a mindset that helps you play athletically.

When you view each competition as an opportunity to explore your potential, you will commit to the necessary preparation to raise your game.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)
- [Athletes Who Worry About Preparation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-worry-about-preparation/)
- [Anticipation and Mental Preparation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-expect-the-unexpected/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How You Can Become A Peak Performer in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-you-can-become-a-peak-performer-in-sports/)

**Published:** June 1, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How You Can Become A Peak Performer in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/peak-athlete.jpg)

## What Makes an Elite Athlete “Elite”? 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What Makes an Elite Athlete “Elite”?](#What_Makes_an_Elite_Athlete_%E2%80%9CElite%E2%80%9D)
    - [Among the mental skills of elite athletes that you can develop are the following:](#Among_the_mental_skills_of_elite_athletes_that_you_can_develop_are_the_following)
    - [Three key elements to develop your mental skills are:](#Three_key_elements_to_develop_your_mental_skills_are)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Elite athletes aren’t elite just because they are talented. Plenty of talented athletes have not lived up to their potential.

Do elite athletes just have better coaching? Again, many athletes have risen to the top without the best coaching. Likewise, many talented athletes have elite coaches and still consistently under perform.

Elite athletes are peak performers because they are mentally tough and make things happen.

Elite athletes experience similar circumstances as their counterparts, such as slumps, mistakes, and losses. In addition, elite athletes aren’t superheroes. They don’t always have their ‘A’ game.

They get tired and frustrated. Sometimes, elite athletes, like all athletes, want to skip practice.

\* Elite ballplayers go through stretches where they can’t get on base. They respond by looking for an answer, taking extra time in the batting cages, and working on their swing mechanics with their hitting coaches.

\* Elite basketball players miss shots with the game on the line. Yet they work to manage pressure, maintain confidence and focus late in games. They file away misses and want the ball in their hands the next game.

\* Elite swimmers and track athletes miss national cuts early in the season but respond by refining their mechanics and continuing to push themselves in training sessions.

\* Elite tennis players lose to lower-ranked opponents, but they learn from their mistakes and mentally reset for their next match.

In all these cases, elite athletes DO extra. They take action by working on their mental and physical games. They find a way around obstacles and keep grinding through the long season.

They know they can turn things around and take personal responsibility for their performances.

These solutions give elite athletes a sense of control over their athletic destinies and help them maximize their potential.

The things that help make an elite athlete “elite” are not an inborn quality but a combination of mental skills and decisive actions.

Those same mental skills are available to you and help you consistently overcome adversity to perform at your peak.

### Among the mental skills of elite athletes that you can develop are the following:

\* High stable confidence
\* Laser-focus
\* Emotional management
\* Visualization
\* Goal setting
\* Performing under pressure
\* Dealing with mistakes

In his first season with the New York Mets, elite pitcher Justin Verlander has been trying to find his stride. Over his 18-year career, Verlander has been one of the most consistent and dominating pitchers in the MLB, racking up 246 wins.

However, Verlander has started the season slow with a 2-2 record, and the early-season favorite Mets are 20-23 over the first 43 games in the 2023 MLB season.

Verlander admitted to being frustrated, but he is not giving in to frustration.

**VERLANDER**: “Everybody’s frustrated. We expect to be better. I expect to be better. I think this entire organization expects to be better. There’s only one thing left to do, and that’s put your head down, work hard and find your way out of this slump.”

Like all elite athletes, Verlander is committed to taking action to turn his season around.

**VERLANDER**: “But I think we’re past the point of waiting for that to happen. We need to make it happen.”

Talent is important, but mental toughness and strong mental skills are necessary for peak performance, and all athletes can learn those skills.

### Three key elements to develop your mental skills are:

1. **Commitment** – You must be willing to work and dedicate time to developing your mental game.
2. **Planning** – You need to know how you can learn mental skills and the resources available to you.
3. **Practice** – Mere knowledge about the mental aspects of peak performance won’t improve your game. You must work to develop your mental game and apply those skills to competitions.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Elite Athletes Prove Themselves at the Next Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-prove-themselves-at-the-next-level/)
- [How Elite Athletes Combat Worry](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-combat-worry/)
- [Get the Mental Edge. Train Like an Elite Athlete.](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/get-the-mental-edge-train-like-an-elite-athlete/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How to Deal With Team Drama](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-team-drama/)

**Published:** February 18, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Focusing on The Controllables in Volleyball](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Focusing-on-The-Controllables-in-Volleyball.jpg)

## Focus On Your Team Goal

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Focus On Your Team Goal](#Focus_On_Your_Team_Goal)
    - [Some sources of conflict include:](#Some_sources_of_conflict_include)
    - [Blocking out Team Drama](#Blocking_out_Team_Drama)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

How well are you able to deal with the drama on your team?

Let’s be honest, drama happens on sports teams. Sometimes, athletes clash with coaches, coaches get angry with athletes, or teammates argue amongst themselves.

You can probably recall times when conflict or drama affected your team in the past or even currently.

### Some sources of conflict include:

- Teammates blaming other team members for losses.
- Teammates yelling at others for lack of effort in practices.
- Coaches benching athletes for attitude issues.
- Coaches being angry over losses.
- Athletes believing they are being unjustly punished.

Whatever the reason, team drama can drive a wedge between teammates. With a lack of team cohesion, performance suffers.

One word can best describe team drama… DISTRACTION!

Anything that doesn’t bring a team together, push a team forward, or help a team succeed is a distraction. Distractions interfere with focus during competition and prevent players from pulling together and working towards a common goal.

Also, distractions can occur in the locker room or during practice and have the same negative effect on performance.

For example, if two basketball players are yelling at each other during a game. That drama affects team focus, communication, and decision-making. One player may choose not to pass the ball when the other player is open.

Instead, he might try to force the ball to another teammate and have the ball stolen. Just this one play can further the conflict on the court.

No matter the drama, if you treat it the same way as any other distraction and refocus on playing your game, you can minimize the impact of that conflict.

Late in the 2022 NFL season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Brown stormed off the field in dramatic fashion during the middle of a game.

Brown took off some of his equipment on the sidelines and threw some in the stands as he departed. The scene was a hot topic for talk radio but not for the Buccaneers.

In a post-game interview, Tampa Bay tight end Rob Gronkowski commented on how the team dealt with the drama on the field:

**GRONKOWSKI**: *“A lot of professionals in the locker room just stayed focused on what \[they had to do\], and that’s basically what I did too. That outside noise, it can affect you if you let it get to you. But you just block it out. That’s one thing I learned in New England big time in the nine years I was there, block out the outside noise.”*

Distractions (drama) are just noise. If you tune into the noise, it will take your focus away from competing. When you tune out the noise, you free up yourself to give 100 percent effort and focus on competing. Managing external distractions is the hallmark of championship teams.

### Blocking out Team Drama

Remember, drama equals distraction, and distractions lead to poor performance. Remind yourself of what is important, the team’s success, then refocus on what matters.

Define what you must attend to during your performance. Commit to focusing on those cues only. When you’re distracted by outside noise, refocus on your task.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Resolve Conflicts with Your Teammates and Coaches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-resolve-conflicts-with-your-teammates-and-coaches/)
- [How to Approach Intra-Team Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-approach-intra-team-competition/)
- [How Team Culture Impacts Team Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-team-culture-impacts-team-success/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Overcome Negative Self-talk in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcome-negative-self-talk-in-sports/)

**Published:** February 25, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![From negative to positive self-talk](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/positive-self-tak.jpg)

## A Positive Mindset Helps to Perform Better

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [A Positive Mindset Helps to Perform Better](#A_Positive_Mindset_Helps_to_Perform_Better)
    - [Do Not Focus on the Negatives](#Do_Not_Focus_on_the_Negatives)
    - [How to Create Positive Self-Messages](#How_to_Create_Positive_Self-Messages)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you view self-talk as something you can control? Do you think self-talk has any impact on **performance**?

Imagine how you would feel if your parents told you that you had no chance of winning because you were competing against a “more talented” opponent before the start of a competition.

Would those words affect your confidence? Imagine your coach yelling at you in the middle of a competition after a mistake. Would you still be motivated to push hard?

Most athletes feel hurt by negative comments, which detracts from their performance. Outside messages can hurt performance, but internal messages or self-talk are even more impactful.

When your self-talk becomes judgmental, confidence drops, **performance** declines, and feelings about yourself become negative.

Let’s go back to our earlier scenarios and make one slight adjustment. Imagine if YOU told yourself that you had no chance of winning before the start of the competition.

For example, “I can’t beat her. She is so much better than me. She crushes me every time I compete against her. She is a record-holder and the best athlete in the state. I am going to lose.”

How would those self-messages affect your confidence? Do you think you would be motivated for the challenge? When you put yourself down, especially before the start of a competition, you give your opponent a huge advantage.

Most likely, you will buy into those internal messages and perform poorly.

### Do Not Focus on the Negatives

Now, imagine YOU berated yourself in the middle of a competition. Would that motivate you to keep fighting? If you were tired and told yourself, “I can’t finish,” would that message help you find a boost of energy to finish strong?

The messages you send to yourself are directions for your body to follow.

When you tell yourself you are tired, you will feel worn down and back off the effort. When you are critical of yourself after a mistake, you will feel unmotivated and not take risks needed to get back on track.

The key to enhancing **performance** or overcoming mistakes is to change the tone and content of your messages.

The following is a tremendous example of the positive impact of self-talk. US Olympic skier Jessie Diggins won the silver medal at the 2022 Beijing Olympics after finishing second in the 30-kilometer freestyle skiing event.

The night before the event, Diggins came down with food poisoning. In the morning, she struggled to keep food down. Diggins could easily have bailed on her event or attempted to finish.

And midway through the event, Diggins began cramping with approximately 45 minutes remaining in the race. Tired, cold, hungry, and hurting, Diggins gave herself positive messages to keep pushing onward.

**DIGGINGS**: *“I was like, ‘Oh, boy,’ I was drinking, and I kept trying to put down more sugar. I focused on the parts of my body that did feel good, and I had to give myself pep talks.”*

Diggins utilized positive self-talk throughout the race to keep herself focused and motivated.

**DIGGINS**: *“I felt like the whole world was helping me get up those hills said. I just kept thinking, ‘I’ve got to keep pushing as hard as I can. I can’t back down.’ . . . That was so hard. But it was so special.”*

At the finish line, Diggins collapsed on the snow. Diggins won the silver medal by giving herself positive directions, “I just kept thinking, ‘I’ve got to keep pushing as hard as I can. I can’t back down.”

You will not stop the flow of messages that pass through your mind. However, when you can focus on helpful and supportive messages, you will push forward during tough moments in competition.

### **How to Create Positive Self-Messages**

Start by being more aware of your negative self-talk. Write each statement down on paper just like you are thinking the message. Next, rebut or reframe each negative message. Create a new message, such as:

“I hate this event and never **perform** well here.”

You can change your self-talk by giving yourself a pep-talk using positive statements such as “Keep pushing.”

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How Self-Talk Can Help You Rebound** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-self-talk-can-help-you-rebound/)
- [**Improve Self-Talk to Reach Your Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improve-self-talk-to-reach-your-peak-performance/)
- [**Positive or Negative Self-Talk. Which One Do You Use?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/positive-self-talk/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)

**Published:** March 4, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Focused Training Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Traning-Hard-for-Success.jpg)

## Working Hard Leads to Confidence

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Working Hard Leads to Confidence](#Working_Hard_Leads_to_Confidence)
    - [As you can see, hard work is as much mental as physical…](#As_you_can_see_hard_work_is_as_much_mental_as_physical%E2%80%A6)
    - [Dedicated Training Sessions](#Dedicated_Training_Sessions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

What is the key to athletic success? You can give dozens of answers to the this question. However, I’m sure we can all agree that working hard is part of the equation.

A diligent work ethic doesn’t just improve technical skills and physiological capabilities. Hard work has a mental benefit; it leads to higher **confidence**.

When you put in dedicated practice to improve your skills, you also improve confidence… And that **confidence** leads to success. When you buy into this equation, you become motivated to put in the effort continually.

Just because an athlete has the physical attributes (strength, size, speed, power, etc.) doesn’t guarantee success. Too often, athletes rely on their natural gifts and gradually peter out. These athletes waste their talents because they don’t buy into the value of hard work.

You will often feel too tired to put in the effort during training. This is the point where an athlete’s mental skills kick in. When you are exhausted during a training session, you can focus on how your body feels or concentrate on pushing hard for the next minute.

When you have made a few mistakes in practice, you can decide to give in for the day and go through the motions, or you can choose to hit the reset button and focus on the next drill.

You can choose to work as hard as some of your teammates, or you can set a practice goal of outworking those on your team.

### As you can see, hard work is as much mental as physical…

Resting on natural ability does not build **confidence** but relying on hard work does. Confidence comes from something you do, not something you have.

In the NBA, you often see players play better than expected when they receive an opportunity. Boston Celtics backup point guard Payton Pritchard has reaped the benefits of hard work. Pritchard was the 26th pick in 2020, and his work ethic has earned him playing time.

Teammate and Boston Celtics leading scorer Jaylen Brown has taken notice of Pritchard’s work ethic.

**BROWN**: “*\[Pritchard\] is a guy that’s talented, and he wants to prove himself… So it was tough on him in stretches where he didn’t play as much and things like that. But Payton got a great work ethic, so I think that supersedes it all. He has a great mentality, and that’s half the battle.*”

Brown also highlighted how Pritchard’s hard work had built unshakeable **confidence** in his game.

**BROWN**: *\[Pritchard’s\] belief in himself and his confidence in himself is high… Payton is one of those people that he’s never going to give up on himself; he always believes in himself no matter what the situation is. It doesn’t matter if the cards are stacked up against him; Payton is the type of guy to bet on himself.*”

Hard work improve your mental and physical game. A diligent work ethic gives you the **confidence** to trust your skills in competition.

### Dedicated Training Sessions

Practice and training in not just about the time your spend in training. Quality practice is about focus and high intensity, and practicing in a way that matches what you do in competition.

One way to keep your effort and intensity high in training is to break up your practice into sections.

If you have a 1.5-hour practice, you can break it down to three 30 minutes sessions in your mind. Concentrate on giving max effort and focus throughout the 30-minute session.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Defining Athletic Success on Your Terms ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/defining-athletic-success-on-your-terms/)
- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [How to Pros Use Visualization to Improve Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-pros-use-visualization-to-improve-success/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Mental Toughness Tips for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-tips-for-athletes/)

**Published:** March 11, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental Toughness for Peak Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Formula-for-Mental-toughness.jpg)

## Formula for Mental Toughness

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Formula for Mental Toughness](#Formula_for_Mental_Toughness)
    - [Let’s challenge this belief for a moment…](#Lets_challenge_this_belief_for_a_moment%E2%80%A6)
    - [Mental Toughness Recipe](#Mental_Toughness_Recipe)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What is the source of **mental toughness**? Is mental toughness something you are born with, or can it be developed?

If you think mental toughness is just a personality trait, you believe you either have it or don’t. When you view mental toughness as merely a personality trait, you will feel helpless when facing adversity.

In other words, if **mental toughness** is genetic, you are powerless to: get out of a slump, recover mentally from injuries, perform under pressure, or deal with any obstacle outside of sport.

### Let’s challenge this belief for a moment…

You have see two components of mental toughness: your thoughts about adversity and your response to adverse conditions. However, your overall perspective about the source of mental toughness fuels your thoughts and reactions.

Let’s use the following scenario to illustrate **mental toughness**. A baseball or softball player is in a 0-20 slump at the plate. If that player views mental toughness as a personality trait, they will believe there is nothing in their power they can do to get out of the slump.

In practice, they will go through the motions. They will feel less excited about games and will often hope they are not in the lineup. They will feel anxious at the plate, throwing off their timing.

These players will experience tense muscles, interfering with mechanics and prolonging the slump.

The other view is that **mental toughness** can be developed through training. This type of player will still experience a bit of frustration, but they believe the solution is within them.

The answer may be a tweak in mechanics, watching the film, changing their approach in the batter’s box, or merely trusting their swing and having patience.

Their confidence may drop a little, but they know they have the power to resolve their slump.

**Mental toughness** allows you to persist and focus despite your circumstances. When you respond with mental toughness, you build even more mental strength to help overcome adversity in the future.

Mental toughness is an asset for athletes of all levels. For example, in a stretch of 20 games in the 2021-22 NBA season, the New York Knicks won only three games and had several meltdowns late in games. As the Knicks faced a rough patch in the season, head coach Tom Thibodeau commented on the team’s need for mental toughness.

**THIBODEAU**: *“We have to have the mental toughness to get through this. When you face adversity, being mentally tough is the most important thing to be in any situation. We can’t hang our heads. We can’t feel sorry for ourselves. We’ve got to get out there and fight. That’s what this is about right now. This is about our fight, our will, determination, togetherness, our spirit, all of that. We’ve got to make it happen.”*

As you can see, **mental toughness** requires action and the mindset that mental strength can be developed through training.

### Mental Toughness Recipe

Two ways you can build mental toughness include remembering when you overcame adversity or developing mental strength through mental training.

Mental skills such as refocusing, managing expectations, proactive confidence, coping with mistakes, and trust in skills contribute to your overall **mental toughness**.

You can also improve mental toughness by looking for solutions instead of dwelling on the problem, maintaining a high level of preparation, putting in qualify work with effective practice.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)
- [How to Build Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)
- [Mental Toughness in Harsh Weather](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-in-harsh-weather-conditions/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Accepting Your Team Role](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/accepting-your-team-role/)

**Published:** March 18, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Accepting Your Team Role](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Accepting-Your-Team-Role.jpg)

## Athletes Who Embrace Their Role on Team

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Athletes Who Embrace Their Role on Team](#Athletes_Who_Embrace_Their_Role_on_Team)
    - [Anyway, no athlete has ever complained their way to the top. So, what is the resolution?](#Anyway_no_athlete_has_ever_complained_their_way_to_the_top_So_what_is_the_resolution)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Are you a **team player**? Do you complain about a lack of playing time?

Successful athletes make sacrifices. Yet, one of the most challenging sacrifices for some athletes is accepting their role on the team.

Player roles can frequently change due to injuries, roster shake-ups, changes in playing style, coach preferences, or a high level of production by a new **team member**.

Whether you are relegated to a backup role or have your minutes significantly reduced, you can have difficulty adjusting to your new role.

After all, you worked so hard to build your skills and hone your game. You are talented and were a significant contributor to the team in the past. You played a lot better than most of your **teammates** in practice.

You feel you deserve to start or earned the right to play. You may even question why another player receives more playing time than you. You may think your coach is unfair or has something against you personally.

Not only does a negative attitude hurt your performance, but it also stirs negative energy throughout the team. Negative attitudes hurt the **team** and worsen your standing in your coach’s eyes.

### Anyway, no athlete has ever complained their way to the top. So, what is the resolution?

First, even though your role has changed, there are several ways you can still contribute to the team’s success and simultaneously improve your game.

1\. Learn by watching – You can develop your game and better understand strategy by watching others compete.

2\. Push your teammates – When you push your limits in training, you push your **teammates** to become better. This mentality fosters team play and cohesion.

3\. Hone your skills – Even though you have less playing time, you can take advantage of the opportunities in practice to develop your skills through focused repetition.

4\. Showcase your abilities – Each practice, you have the opportunity to display your skills, work ethic, and positive mindset, possibly resulting in more playing time.

5\. Contribute to **teamwork** – Just as negativity infects a team’s morale, positivity can improve the collective team mindset.

Always keep in mind that a team’s success results from all players pulling in the same direction towards a common goal.

Take, for example, shooting guard Nik Stauskas. Stauskas entered the NBA after being drafted No. 8 overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Kings. Stauskas found himself battling for playing minutes and never lived up to his potential as a rookie.

Stauskas bounced around the league playing for eight different teams, which affected his effort and energy. In 2022, Stauskas contemplated retirement. However, after a 10-day successful stint in the NBA ‘G’ League, the Boston Celtics signed Stauskas to a two-year contract.

Stauskas has since decided to accept his role, contribute wherever he can and maintain a positive attitude.

**STAUSKAS**: *“I just have a different appreciation now for being in this \[situation\], having this opportunity. Trying to make the most of it. If I’m not going to play, I’m going to be the first guy waving the towel, pumping everyone else up. For me, that’s growth because that’s something that I wasn’t willing to do just a couple years ago in my first stint in the league.”*

Defining and accepting your role on the **team** keeps your motivation high. You become a valuable team asset when you approach each practice and game with a positive mentality.

**Tip for Taking Advantage of your Role on your Team:**

It is easy to complain, but complaining does nothing to improve your circumstances. However, you can contribute to the team success in many ways…

Instead, work on a mindset to help you and your **team** by compiling a list of how you can contribute to your team’s success as a leader, a challenger, coach-player, or a helper.

Read your list before practice and commit yourself to be a team player.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Using Your Mind to Mount a Comeback](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/using-your-mind-to-mount-a-comeback/)
- [Be Mentally Prepared When Coach Calls You To Play](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/be-mentally-prepared-when-coach-calls-you-to-play/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Team Culture in Sports, Teamwork

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### [Mental Toughness as an Underdog](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-as-an-underdog/)

**Published:** March 25, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental Toughness as an Underdog](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Playing-as-an-Underdog.jpg)

## Mindset for Tough Conditions

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Mindset for Tough Conditions](#Mindset_for_Tough_Conditions)
    - [It’s clear that young athletes can’t complain their way to the top. What can they do instead?](#Its_clear_that_young_athletes_cant_complain_their_way_to_the_top_What_can_they_do_instead)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do your sports kids complain about not getting enough playing time?

Successful athletes often make sacrifices. Yet, one of the most challenging sacrifices for some athletes is accepting their role on the team.

Players’ roles can frequently change due to injuries, roster shake-ups, changes in playing style, coach preferences, or a new team members’ successes.

When young athletes are relegated to a backup role or have their playing time reduced, they can have difficulty adjusting to their new role.

They will say they worked hard to build their skills and hone their game. They’re talented and have been important contributors to the team. They played a lot better than most of their teammates in practice, they’ll tell you.

Often, young athletes who have had their role changed feel they deserve to start or earned the right to play. They may question why another player receives more playing time. They may think their coach is unfair or has something against them personally.

This type of negative thinking can hurt kids’ performance, and it also sparks negative energy on the team. Negative attitudes hurt the team and hurt sports kids’ standing in their coaches’ eyes.

### It’s clear that young athletes can’t complain their way to the top. What can they do instead?

First, even when kids’ roles have changed, they can still contribute to the team’s success and improve their game. They can:

1\. Learn by watching. They can develop their game and better understand strategy by watching others compete.

2\. Push their teammates. When athletes push their limits in training, they also push their teammates to become better. This **mentality** fosters team play and cohesion.

3\. Hone their skills. Even though they have less playing time, they can take advantage of the opportunities in practice to develop their skills through focused repetition.

4\. Showcase their abilities. Each practice, kids have the opportunity to display their skills, work ethic, and positive **mindset**. This can lead to more playing time.

5\. Contribute to teamwork. Just as negativity infects a team’s morale, positivity can improve the collective mindset.

Remind kids to keep in mind that a team’s success results from all players pulling in the same direction toward a common goal.

Take, for example, shooting guard Nik Stauskas. Stauskas entered the NBA after being drafted No. 8 overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Kings. Stauskas found himself battling for playing minutes and never lived up to his potential as a rookie.

Stauskas bounced around the league, playing for eight different teams, which affected his effort and energy. In 2022, Stauskas contemplated retirement.

However, after he had a 10-day successful stint in the NBA ‘G’ League, Stauskas was signed to a two-year contract with the Boston Celtics. Stauskas has since decided to accept his role, contribute wherever he can and maintain a positive attitude.

“I just have a different appreciation now for being in this \[situation\], having this opportunity,” he said. “Trying to make the most of it. If I’m not going to play, I’m going to be the first guy waving the towel, pumping everyone else up. For me, that’s growth because that’s something that I wasn’t willing to do just a couple years ago in my first stint in the league.”

When kids define and accept their roles on a team, their motivation stays high. They become valuable team assets when they approach each practice and game with a positive **mentality**.

It’s easy to complain, but complaining does nothing to improve young athletes’ circumstances. Instead, they can contribute to the team’s success in many ways.

Encourage young athletes to work on a **mindset** aimed at helping their team. Help them compile a list of how they can contribute to their team’s success as a leader, a challenger, coach-player, or a helper.

Young athletes should read this list before practice and commit themselves to being team players. Being good team members is just as important as scoring or winning!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Thrive as an Underdog in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-thrive-as-an-underdog-in-sports/)
- [How to Counter The Upset When Playing an Underdog](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-counter-the-upset-when-playing-an-underdog/)
- [How to Become a Sports Cinderella Story Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-become-a-sports-cinderella-story-team/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Overcome the Imposter Syndrome](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcome-the-imposter-syndrome/)

**Published:** April 1, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-success.jpg)

## Improve Your Mental Game

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Improve Your Mental Game](#Improve_Your_Mental_Game)
    - [Common signs of imposter syndrome include:](#Common_signs_of_imposter_syndrome_include)
    - [How to Overcome the Imposter Syndrome:](#How_to_Overcome_the_Imposter_Syndrome)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Have you ever wondered, “Can I compete at this level? Do I have what it takes? Everyone is so much better than me”?

Even though some athletes achieve a certain level, they doubt their ability to compete at the next level. At the very foundation of confidence is the question, “Do I belong here?”

Sometimes, you may think it was a fluke to make the roster, or you were lucky in a competition. You may dismiss your successes because you feel your competition just had a bad day. You may view a personal best as a one-time event.

We have a name for those times when you feel like a fake or lucky: the “imposter syndrome.” The imposter syndrome occurs when you doubt your successes and feel like a fraud.

The impostor syndrome is the belief that you are not as competent as others perceive you to be. It’s the feeling of being a phony. You think you are not talented and fear your teammates will come to the same realization.

### Common signs of imposter syndrome include:

\* Attributing your success to luck
\* Frequently putting yourself down
\* Fear that you won’t live up to expectations 
\* Sabotaging your success by putting in less preparation and effort

To counter the imposter syndrome, you can:

\* Steer clear of perfectionism.
\* Put in the necessary work.
\* Don’t be afraid to ask your coach for help improve your skills.
\* Work on your mental game.
\* Challenge your thoughts. 
\* Stop comparing yourself to others. 
\* Know that you belong and chase down new goals.

To understand the issue at hand, let’s look at Los Angeles Angels’ outfielder Brandon Marsh…

Marsh was a second-round pick in the 2016 MLB draft. After five successful years in the minor leagues, Marsh was called up to the big leagues.

In 70 games with the Angels, Marsh struggled with a batting average of .254. Though he had difficulty early in the season, Marsh found his stride and hit .297, with two homers and 17 RBIs in his final 46 games.

Marsh credited his turnaround to changing his perspective and simplifying the process:

**MARSH**: *“I don’t want to feel like I’m not supposed to be here because then I’m already out. The game is already hard enough. You don’t want to make it any harder.”*

*“We just have to keep it simple, don’t try to be a Superman. We have a phenomenal lineup, top to bottom, and depth, guys who are going to make the big plays, so stick to yourself, play your role, and do you.”*

The first step to overcoming the imposter syndrome is recognizing that you belong where you are. Since you achieved a certain standard or performed at a high level, you have earned your place in your sport.

### How to Overcome the Imposter Syndrome:

The first step to overcoming the imposter syndrome is awareness. If you think you might have imposter syndrome, ask yourself the following questions:

Do you attribute your success to luck or outside factors?
Do you feel you will eventually be “found out”?
Do you downplay your skills and successes?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Confidence And Knowing You Belong](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/confidence-and-knowing-you-belong/)
- [How Elite Athletes Prove Themselves at the Next Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-prove-themselves-at-the-next-level/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukPAfxPlVp9edldc-Way9A?sub_confirmation=1) on YouTube

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Peak Perfromance, Sports Psychologist, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [When Missing Shots Early in Game - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/missing-shots-early/)

**Published:** April 21, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Stay Confident in Your Shot 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Stay Confident in Your Shot](#How_to_Stay_Confident_in_Your_Shot)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you lose confidence and stop shooting after you miss early in the game? Learn how to **keep your confidence** and keep shooting when missing.

In this sports psychology video, Dr. Cohn helps teach athletes how to keep their confidence after missing early in the game. Many athletes struggle staying confident after missing early in the game. It is important to **trust in your skills** even when you are missing.

In addition, Dr. Cohn talks about having fragile confidence and how that impacts your shot. Watch the video below and learn how to [**play aggressively instead of passively.** ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4eaaaDGUXo&feature=youtu.be "play aggressively instead of passively. ")

**Video on Overcoming Fragile Confidence**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How to Keep Shooting After Missing Shots**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-shooting-after-missing-shots/)
- [**Golf Podcast: Do You See Your Shots Before Execution?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/golf-podcast-do-you-see-your-shots-before-execution/)
- [**Helping Basketball Players Adopt the Shooter’s Mindset**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-basketball-players-adopt-the-shooters-mindset/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Mentally Prepare for Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-prepare-for-adversity/)

**Published:** April 26, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Moving Forward After a Bad Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Poor-Performance.jpg)

## Staying Mentally Tough When Facing Adversity 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Staying Mentally Tough When Facing Adversity](#Staying_Mentally_Tough_When_Facing_Adversity)
    - [The Mental Toll of Adversity](#The_Mental_Toll_of_Adversity)
    - [Training your Mind to Cope with Adversity](#Training_your_Mind_to_Cope_with_Adversity)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Most athletes pay no attention to purposefully training their minds. Instead, these athletes leave their mental response to chance.

You want to consistently train your brain by sending yourself positive messages. If you are not actively training your brain, you passively train your brain. That is, whatever messages pop up in your mind, either negative or positive, will affect future performances.

For example, if you haven’t actively trained your brain and a referee or official blows a call, your mental response may be, “This always happens to me. The officials are out to get me. The officials are favoring the other team.”

This negative response will cause you to become frustrated and angry. You will not be able to focus, and you will make more mistakes.

In the same situation, you can train your brain to respond with mental toughness, “No matter what the official does, It doesn’t matter. I can handle anything.”

If you keep sending yourself consistent empowering messages, you will respond with mental toughness automatically.

### The Mental Toll of Adversity

The best way to train your brain to handle adversity is to learn to cope with adverse conditions in practice and respond positively. In other words, respond the way you want to react in competitions.

You never want to leave your mental game to chance. You control how you respond in adversity by anticipating challenges and being ready to respond.

If you want to play hard when you are tired in competitions, you can train your brain by pushing yourself hard at the end of practice and sending yourself strong messages:

“I will outwork everyone at the end of practice. I will work hard until the very last second. Nothing can stop me.” The key is to train your brain actively.

### Training your Mind to Cope with Adversity

You can learn to cope with adversity by imagining scenarios you might see during a game and how you will cope with it, such as going into the game cold on short notice.

Visualization is not always about rehearsing yourself perform at your peak!

Start by thinking about what might be challenging for you during a game. An interception? Missing a tackle? Harsh weather conditions?

Next, how will you cope with each situation so that you can perform your best despite the challenge?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Managing Your Emotions When Adversity Hits](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-your-emotions-when-adversity-hits/)
- [How to Overcome Adversity for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)
- [How Adversity Can Improve Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-adversity-can-improve-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukPAfxPlVp9edldc-Way9A?sub_confirmation=1) on YouTube

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

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### [Creating a Healthy Experience for Young Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/creating-a-healthy-experience-for-young-athletes/)

**Published:** April 26, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Healthy Young Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/youth-sports-psychology.jpg)

## How to Become a Well-Rounded Athlete 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Become a Well-Rounded Athlete](#How_to_Become_a_Well-Rounded_Athlete)
    - [Misconceptions About Starting Age](#Misconceptions_About_Starting_Age)
    - [Building a Positive Sports Experience](#Building_a_Positive_Sports_Experience)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

How do you become a **well-rounded athlete**? What ways help to gain overall physical strength? How can you prevent burnout at an early age?

The answer to these questions is the same… Variety.

Many young athletes and parents believe more is better. Young athletes specialize in a sport at an early age. Not only do kids start at an early age in one sport, but they also specialize in one position.

Let’s look at the sport of soccer, for example. Some kids start soccer as early as five years old. A young player may choose to strictly focus on being a goaltender.

Young players attend soccer camps and play indoor and outdoor soccer throughout the season.

These young athletes go on to play travel soccer and spend increasingly more time practicing, working one-on-one with coaches, and training with strength and conditioning coaches.

By the time some of these players enter high school, they lose their passion for the game. Some develop overuse injuries that hurt their game for years. When those athletes are beaten out for a starting position, they are devastated.

They look back at the time and work they put in, their sacrifices, and it all seems like a waste. A lot of these players become burned out and quit the sport.

### Misconceptions About Starting Age

The belief is that if an athlete doesn’t start at an early age, they are at a disadvantage. Again, more does not mean better.

Parents and kids will hear stories of professional or Olympic athletes who started competing when they were young.

They don’t hear about the countless athletes who quit because they were fed up with their sport. Or athletes who had injuries forcing them to move on from competing.

In addition, they don’t hear of the **athletes who had successful careers** who started competing when they were 10 or 11. Or successful athletes who played multiple sports as a child before specializing in one sport in high school.

Florida Panthers forward Jonathan Huberdeau is a well-accomplished NHL player. Huberdeau won the 2012-13 Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year. He is the Panthers’ all-time leading scorer (588 points), is second in goals (189), first in assists (399), and has played more games in Florida history (656).

Huberdeau credits his successful hockey career to a **broad sports interests as a youth**, not specializing in hockey at an early age. Huberdeau enjoyed soccer, tennis, and basketball in addition to hockey.

**HUBERDEAU**: *“I enjoy variety, and it’s always good to learn and play other sports. They give you other tools, and things you learn in other sports can help you in hockey. A lot of kids play hockey all the time, but for me, playing other sports taught me many things. I’d encourage kids today to do that too.”*

Playing various sports and having interests outside of competing provides a more significant benefit for younger athletes. It builds physiological balance and a life balance that contributes to a healthy sporting experience and lifestyle.

### Building a Positive Sports Experience

Remember the phrase “more is not necessarily” better, but more variety is beneficial.

It’s important to understand this philosophy. Think of the realistic risk-reward and know that success depends on balance.

Be careful of the expectations you might place on your athletes as this leads to feeling more pressure to perform well for coach.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-team-drama/)[The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)
- [Embrace Healthy Competition within Your Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embrace-healthy-competition-within-your-team/)
- [Achieve Proactive Confidence for a Healthy Life Balance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/achieve-proactive-confidence-for-a-healthy-life-balance/)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Have Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-have-stable-confidence/)

**Published:** April 28, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Manage Pressure Like](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Manage-Pressure-Like.jpg)

## Playing With More Confidence in Competition 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Playing With More Confidence in Competition](#Playing_With_More_Confidence_in_Competition)
    - [Players with stable confidence will still believe in their ability to make plays and contribute to the team.](#Players_with_stable_confidence_will_still_believe_in_their_ability_to_make_plays_and_contribute_to_the_team)
    - [How to Have Stable Confidence](#How_to_Have_Stable_Confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What is stable confidence? What is fragile **confidence**? Is winning or performing well the best way to gain confidence?

If you consider winning as the only source of confidence, you will have fragile or “roller coaster confidence.”

Roller coaster **confidence** is when your belief depends on winning or performing well in the moment. In other words, after a win, you feel confident, and after a loss, your confidence drops.

With fragile confidence, you are not in control of your confidence. You are at the whim of outcomes.

**Stable confidence** results from years of training, preparing, and defining yourself by your strengths. Stable confidence is built through what have done and not what has happened.

In this mindset, your level of belief is within your direct control and remains steady despite outcomes.

Let’s look at a hypothetical of a basketball player who missed three open shots in a game and made two turnovers…

A player with roller coaster confidence will be less confident in the next game. On the other hand, a player with stable confidence will view the last game as an anomaly. He will realize bad games are a part of being an athlete.

### Players with stable confidence will still believe in their ability to make plays and contribute to the team.

He will continue to prepare at a high level and approach the next game as a new opportunity. He will stick to his game plan for the current game rather than bringing up memories of bad games.

Take, for example, the 2022 Boston Celtics. The Celtics were under .500 at the midpoint of their season. As Boston’s confidence improved, the team turned the season around and went 31-10 in the second half of the season to earn a playoff spot.

The Celtics faced the Brooklyn Nets in the first round of the playoffs. Many predicted the Nets to make a strong run for the championship due to having two of the most prolific scorers in the league.

However, the highly confident Celtics dominated the series and swept the Brooklyn Nets to advance to the second round.

Celtics guard Marcus Smart alluded to the team’s confidence and how the Celtics approach each game.

SMART: “It’s funny to us because we don’t duck and dodge anybody. We knew what we were going to come in here and do.”

The Celtics worked on building their confidence through practice and training throughout the year. The Celtics’ stable confidence was crucial for playing their game and winning in four straight games.

You can’t wait for confidence to happen. That is not how confidence works. Confidence is an action. So what steps are you going to take to grow your confidence?

### How to Have Stable Confidence

List 10 reasons why you deserve to feel confident in your skills and have stable confidence. Remind yourself every day of the work you have put in over the last few years.

The next time you blow a play or make a mistake, remember that one mistake does not negate years of confidence-building!

If you want to fast track your confidence-building, contact us for one-on-one live mental performance coaching via video conference from anywhere in the world.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Sports Psychology

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How Coach Val Whiting Helps Sports Parents](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-coach-val-whiting-helps-sports-parents/)

**Published:** May 3, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this week’s podcast, Dr. Cohn interviews a former WNBA player, Coach Val Whiting. She was part of two NCAA Championship and she works with U Sports and serves in the National Advisory Board for the Positive Coaching Alliance.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [Annoying Sports Parents Who Yell from the Sideline](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/annoying-sports-parents-who-yell-from-the-sideline/)
- [Sports Parents Who Pressure Their Kids – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-parents-who-pressure-their-kids/)
- [Sports Parents: Do Your Sports Kids Lack Confidence – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-parents-do-your-sports-kids-lack-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

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“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Mental Game of Golf, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [When Your Athletes Play Too Safe in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-your-athletes-play-too-safe-in-sports/)

**Published:** May 3, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps parents understand a young athlete who has fragile confidence. Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode this question from a sports parent:

Sports Parent: *“My son plays for a top soccer team in the state. He does great at practice, and he does amazing in other sports when he’s one of the best in the team. Right now, he is not the best on the team, and he has this fear of messing up during the game and does play less confidently. How Can I help him with this?”*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
- [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

- [Athletes Who Play Too Safe During Games – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-play-too-safe-during-games/)
- [Why Playing Safe Doesn’t Help You Win](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-playing-safe-doesnt-help-you-win/)
- [Tennis Focus for Tournament Players – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tennis-focus-for-tournament-players/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How to Keep Shooting After Missing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keeping-after-missing/)

**Published:** May 3, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps a player on how to stay confident in shooting after a couple of misses during the game, Dr. Cohn answers a question from Sam who had to say this about his game.

Sam said: *“If I miss a couple of shots in the game, I lose confidence. Or if somebody makes a negative comment, I lose confidence. Eventually, I end up being more hesitant and not play as aggressive. And I miss everything then. Inside, outside, drives. It’s hard for me to get out of it. Any ideas on how to get out of that?*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[How to Keep Shooting After Missing Shots – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-shooting-after-missing-shots/)
- [Shooting For Excellence: Going For It In Golf](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/shooting-excellence-going-for-it-in-your-golf-game/)
- [When Missing Shots Early in Game – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/missing-shots-early/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Improve Team Communication Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-team-communication/)

**Published:** May 3, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps a soccer player understand the importance of team communication to achieve success. In addition, he highlights the mindset of moving on from past mistakes and staying in the moment of the game. In this episode, Dr. Cohn Answers a question from Lee who had to say this about this about his game:

**LEE**: *“I play goalie on my soccer league team. I am wanting to improve my inner game. Sometimes I have games where I shut down. I get quiet and don’t communicate with my team well. I also make unnecessary errors that could be avoided if my mind was right. How can I be more consistent with my mental game and not go into a shell and stop talking?”*

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [Importance of Team Communication](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/importance-of-team-communication/)
- [Communication For Team Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/communication-for-team-success/)
- [How to be a Team Player Like Kevin Durant](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-a-team-player-like-kevin-durant/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How to Communicate With Teammates - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-communicate-with-teammates/)

**Published:** May 5, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

When you’re not performing your best, do you sometimes shut down and stop communicating with your teammates? Many athletes **struggle with communication** when they aren’t performing well in competition.

However, in this sports psychology video, Dr. Cohn helps athletes **effectively communicate** with their teammates. What can you do continuously communicate with your teammates instead of shutting now? Learn how to continue to communicate and **[address your mind game.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xo3t0TTz9PY&feature=youtu.be "address your mind game.")**

**Video on How to Best Communicate**

---

### Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent](#Resources_for_Athletes_Coach_and_Sports_Parent)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- Learn about [Mental Game Coaching For Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)
- Download our a FREE [Mental Toughness Report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/)
- Read our [Sports Psychology Articles](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/)
- Check out our [Sports Psychology Audio Programs](https://shop.peaksports.com/)

[\*Subscribe to ](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)**[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

 [ ![social network 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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How to Perform Well When Leading the Match](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-well-when-leading-the-match/)

**Published:** May 5, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Tennis and Game Plans](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-1-4.jpg)

## Closing Out Your Tennis Matches

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Closing Out Your Tennis Matches](#Closing_Out_Your_Tennis_Matches)
    - [Why change when things are going well?](#Why_change_when_things_are_going_well)
    - [Getting it Done When Leading:](#Getting_it_Done_When_Leading)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Many tennis players struggle to **close out matches**. They stop playing the way that got them into position to win. They change their game…

We see tennis players react in two ways when leading:

(1) Athletes may sit on the lead and get protective. Here, you stay to worry about missing and you wait for your opponent to miss.

(2) They begin to be overly aggressive: serving with more pace, and trying to paint the lines.

Deviating from an already successful game plan causes you to overthink, lose focus and allows your opponent to slowly chip away at your lead. You essentially give your opponent momentum as you falter down the stretch.

### Why change when things are going well?

Here’s what players tell us: “I tend to change my style of play when I have a big lead. I seem to blow big leads and always let my opponent back in the match.”

You might relate to the following scenario… You dominated the first set.

You felt great. All aspects of your game clicked, and your game plan was going well. Midway through the second set, you decided to play it safe and now miss your shots. Instead of hitting well-placed deep shots, you decided to hit shots down the middle and keep it between the lines.

After giving your opponent several weak balls in the center, your opponent hit some winners and started to climb back into the match.

You couldn’t seem to regain your form and you felt yourself becoming angry and frustrated. You felt the match slipping away from you and started to worry about losing the match and how awful that would feel…

The reality is that you can **close out matches** if you stay focused on what is working and stay aggressive or don’t protect the lead.

When you stay focused on what is working, stay aggressive, and play one point at a time, you are more likely to finish the match strong.

### Getting it Done When Leading:

Remember, avoid playing safe with in the lead. Continue with the same tactics that helped you get into the lead. If you were going into the net often–keep doing it!

Avoid slamming on the breaks and protecting the lead when up in the match. That means don’t wait for the opponent to hand you the match.

Instead, focus on closing the points out quickly and staying on offense. You do this by swinging freely or taking full swings and not pushing the ball down the middle of the court.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Win Close Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-win-close-competitions/)
- [How to Finish The Tournament When Playing With a Lead](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-finish-the-tournament-when-playing-with-a-lead/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[How to Overcome the Fear of Negative Outcomes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness

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### [How to Improve Your Preshot Routine](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/follow-these-steps-to-improve-your-preshot-routine/)

**Published:** October 23, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Grow Confidence Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-1-2.jpg)

## Top Mistakes Golfers Make With Preshot Routines

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Top Mistakes Golfers Make With Preshot Routines](#Top_Mistakes_Golfers_Make_With_Preshot_Routines)
    - [Steps in Your Preshot Routine:](#Steps_in_Your_Preshot_Routine)
    - [Related Golf Psychology Articles](#Related_Golf_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Subscribe to Our Podcasts](#Subscribe_to_Our_Podcasts)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0](#Golfers_Mental_Edge_20)

How many times has indecision and self-doubt interfered with playing good shots?

Spending extra time standing over the ball questioning your shot strategy, thinking of last second adjustments and possible outcomes is a surefire method to interfere with making a good swing.

When you overthink, over-analyze or have too many swing thoughts, you inhibit your ability to pull the trigger on your shot.

Your mind has to be clear of indecision and doubt when you step up and address the ball. When you are indecisive that leads to a wishy-washy swing.

And golfer who spend too much time over the ball leave room for overthinking, second-guessing, and doubt. The final stage of your **preshot** routine is critical to help you perform more consistently.

When you take too much time over the ball…

You question whether you are playing the right shot. You become indecisive about club selection. You might question your set up. And the worst thing golfers do is think about 3-4 swing thoughts as they pull the club back.

The more time you have to think, debate and analyze, the greater the opportunity for negative thoughts and indecision.

This is when the **preshot** routine comes to your rescue. Committing to your plan early in your routine is critical! Making your decisions early and sticking with them will help you stop over thinking over the ball.

The decision-making process early in the routine helps to clear your mind when you are over the ball. So picking your target, club, type of shot based on the lie and distance will help you focus on execution over the ball.

Over the ball, the time for debate is over and you should execute and carry out the plan.

### Steps in Your Preshot Routine:

1\. Start by planning the shot you want based on your homework.

2\. After your “homework,” you want to plan the shot.

3\. Get committed to the shot be seeing or feeling the shot in your mind.

4\. Step up to the ball with an image of the shot in your mind.

5\. Once you have a plan for the shot or putt, no more debate in your mind about it. Time to commit. At this point, no second-guessing as you move into your setup and execution!

6\. Focus on one swing thought only, such as tempo.

---

### Related Golf Psychology Articles

- [**Golfers, Do You Lose Focus During Your Preshot Routine?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/goflers-do-you-lose-focus-during-your-preshot-routine/)
- [**How to Improve Your Mental Game**](https://www.sportspsychologygolf.com/how-to-step-up-your-golf-game/)
- [**How Your Preshot Routine Can Make You A Consistent Performer On The Green**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-your-preshot-routine-can-make-you-a-consistent-performer-on-the-green/)

### Subscribe to Our Podcasts

\*Subscribe to [**The Golf Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-golf-psychology-podcast/id253984147) on Apple Podcasts
\*Subscribe to [**The Golf Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/5NpJLRxJc1nSiiDj8hL0aU) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**The Peak Performance Sports, LLC** ](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukPAfxPlVp9edldc-Way9A)on YouTube

---

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

### [Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)

Do you suffer from **fragile self-confidence**after missed hitting shots or making mistakes, playing with strict or high expectations that undermine confidence, or the inability to play freely and relaxed on the course?

If you lack focus, have **low self-confidence** or other mental game obstacles on the course, you cant reach your true golf potential…

Successful golfers have learned how to perform with ultimate confidence in competition, so we’ve developed **The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0 Workbook and Audio program** to help you do this!

The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0 program includes the top 11 mental training sessions I do with my personal students to help them boost their mental game and improve consistency on the course.

**The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0 audio program** includes 11 confidence-boosting CDs, MP3 audio recordings, and an 8-session golfer’s mental edge workbook–plus several bonus programs. **Available Now!**

[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Mental Game of Golf

---

### [Tips to Manage Anger on the Soccer Field](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tips-to-manage-anger-on-the-soccer-field/)

**Published:** May 5, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Be a Confident Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Be-a-Confident-Athlete.jpg)

## How to Control Your Emotions on the Field

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Control Your Emotions on the Field](#How_to_Control_Your_Emotions_on_the_Field)
    - [Emotions on the Field](#Emotions_on_the_Field)
    - [When you fail to reach your own expectations, that’s when you deem you are under performing.](#When_you_fail_to_reach_your_own_expectations_thats_when_you_deem_you_are_under_performing)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Soccer Confidence 2.0](#Soccer_Confidence_20)

Do you have difficulty controlling your **emotions** during a soccer game?

Have you ever become so angry after a bad play that you yelled at your teammates, coach or even the ref?

Some soccer players get so upset that they just want to walk off the field in the middle of the game.

Negative **emotions**, such as anger, are difficult for some soccer players to manage and those runaway emotions can have a snowball effect on the mistakes they make throughout a game.

By far, the most taxing emotion in soccer is anger. Anger wears on a soccer player mentally and physically.

Anger is emotionally draining and pulls your attention away from playing soccer to a world inside your head of negative thoughts, fueling your anger even further.

### Emotions on the Field

Surely you can relate to feeling physically exhausted after a soccer game when anger raged inside of you.

We are asked this question a lot: How do I not get angry after mistakes and control my emotions?

First of all, don’t feel as if you are the only athlete who has a hard time with anger while performing; it is quite common among athletes in varying degrees.

Several mistakes in a row or missed chances can build your level of frustration. Hitting an open shot off the crossbar can turn that frustration into full blown anger.

That anger can lead to giving up on focusing and lunging wildly at the ball with no goal in mind. As you continue to add poor decisions, you can feel the anger swell inside.

While it may feel impossible–in that moment–to control your anger, you definitely can. You may not be able to prevent mistakes, but you can learn mental strategies to prevent losing your cool and accumulating stupid fouls.

You may notice that when you become angry, you retreat into your mind and become overly-critical of every little mistake.

Not only are there mental ramifications, physical consequences also become a challenge. When your anger rages, your heart rate becomes elevated and your breathing becomes shallow and rapid.

Soccer players stop communicating with teammates or lash out. They take longer to react because the are dwelling on the past.

You can learn to manage your negative **emotions**. For example, learning to refocus can help turn your attention away from replaying bad moments in your mind and help you focus on making the right decision in front of you.

Another way to manage your anger is to use relaxation strategies to calm your body and thus your mind.

Either way, it is important to realize that you are, ultimately, in the driver’s seat and not your emotions.

Managing Anger in Check on the Field

Most often, when soccer players get upset, they are failing to play up to their expectations, such as “I shouldn’t make any mistakes” or “I should win all 1v1 situations.”

### When you fail to reach your own expectations, that’s when you deem you are under performing.

First, you have to manage your pregame expectations and not put standards on your game before the start of the game.

Second, what are the top 5 triggers that make you angry while playing. What makes each mistake so awful for you? Write the trigger and your reaction as well.

Next, how can you respond differently in each of the same situations? How can you stop dwelling on the mistake? You want to have a new reaction to the mistake that will help you play on with composure.

The key is to understand that mistakes do not make you angry! How you react to mistakes makes you angry!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Turning Athletic Failure Into Growth and Learning](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/turning-athletic-failure-into-growth-and-learning/)
- [Why Athletes “Check Out” After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-athletes-check-out-after-making-mistakes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

###  Soccer Confidence 2.0

![Soccer Confidence 2.0 Workbook and Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/soccer-confidence-small-1.jpg)

You might be the most skilled player on your team and train harder or longer than anyone else, but if self-doubt enters your mind prior to or during competition, you simply will not reach your true potential in soccer.

If you are ready to improve your mental toughness and perform with ultimate self-confidence in games, we have a program that will do just that.

Your **soccer mental game expert** Dr. Patrick Cohn want to share with you **powerful mental strategies** to help you (or your team) perform your best in practice and games…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/soccer-confidence-cd/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/soccer-confidence-cd)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [How Athletes Can Manage High Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-manage-high-expectations/)

**Published:** August 30, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this sports psychology video, Dr. Cohn helps athletes improve their mental game for sports. Learn how to get your mindset right when you compete so you can perform your best.

In this podcast, you learn about how athletes place expectations on themselves and also feel them from parents and others. Dr. Cohn answers a question from an athlete who is struggling with expectations from others.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes. Listen to the podcast below…

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [How to Overcome High Expectations Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-high-expectations-video/)
- [High Expectations During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/high-expectations-during-competition/)
- [How High Expectations Sabotage Athletes’ Mental Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-high-expectations-sabotage-athletes-mental-game/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness

---

### [Social Approval for Athletes in Today's World](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/social-approval-for-athletes-in-todays-world/)

**Published:** August 10, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this sports psychology podcast, Dr. Patrick Cohn interviews former Team Canada Junior National Snowboarder. They discuss social approval for athletes in today’s world of social media.

How expectations from others and social media can impact athletes’ mindset and performance. Natalie Allport is a former Team Canada snowboarder, CrossFit athlete, content creator, and mental health advocate for athletes. She hosts the ALL IN podcast.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [How to Help Young Athletes Overcome Social Approval – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-help-young-athletes-overcome-social-approval/)
- [Social Approval And Distractions – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/social-approval-and-distractions-peaksports-video/)
- [Do You Compete to Gain Others’ Approval?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-compete-to-gain-others-approval/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Do You Seek Instant Gratification or Trust the Process?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-seek-instant-gratification-or-trust-the-process/)

**Published:** May 12, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Superstar Athletes and Labels](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-7.jpg)

## The Instant Gratification Trap & its Negative Impact 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Instant Gratification Trap & its Negative Impact](#The_Instant_Gratification_Trap_its_Negative_Impact)
    - [For progress to happen, you must be patient, persistent, and trust that your work will eventually pay off.](#For_progress_to_happen_you_must_be_patient_persistent_and_trust_that_your_work_will_eventually_pay_off)
    - [Patience is not just a virtue but an essential element to success.](#Patience_is_not_just_a_virtue_but_an_essential_element_to_success)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you become frustrated when you don’t see results immediately?

Sometimes, athletes expect too much, too quickly. These athletes believe increased efforts will have an immediate impact on their results.

For example, a baseball pitcher spends a lot of time working with a pitching coach to add another pitch to his arsenal. At the beginning of the season, he expects to increase his strikeouts per game dramatically. However, it takes time to gain comfort on the mound in live situations.

Or a swimmer who has put extra effort into honing their freestyle technique. She expects to drop significant time in the 100-meter freestyle but sees no time drop early in the season. Seeing improvement requires a high degree of repetition.

The expectation of immediate success often causes an athlete to give up on their efforts just when improvement may be around the corner.

Improvement requires effort but also patience. You will see the benefits of your work as long as you **trust the process.**

What does it mean to **trust the process?**

**Trusting the process** means focusing on building your game over time. Improvement, of course, requires effort and focus. Although, you should understand that there is no such thing as an overnight success.

Elite athletes are successful because they are committed more to improvement than winning. The results will take care of themselves when you work on your game.

### For progress to happen, you must be patient, persistent, and trust that your work will eventually pay off.

When you have an improvement-oriented mindset and the patience to persist, you will be more equipped to handle disappointment. In addition, when you adopt an improvement mindset throughout your career, you will achieve much more of your potential.

Take, for example, professional tennis player Carlos Alcaraz. No. 9 Alcaraz defeated 21-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal in the quarterfinals and, a day later, edged out world No. 1 Novak Djokovic at the 2022 Mutua Madrid Open. Alcaraz won the tournament, but he is committed to improving his game further.

**ALCARAZ**: “*Well, I think that I have to improve everything still. I have always said that you can improve everything. You never reach a limit. Look at Rafa, Djokovic, \[Roger\] Federer. All of them improve, and they have things to improve. That’s why they are so good, and that’s why they are so much time up there because they don’t stop… That’s what I want to do. I want to keep on progressing. I have really good shots. I don’t say that I don’t have them, but I know that I can improve them, and they can be even better.*“

Alcaraz’s mindset has paid off, but his mentality will continue to raise his game further throughout his career.

### Patience is not just a virtue but an essential element to success.

**Tip for Focusing on the Process:**

Success requires a goal and a goal plan. However, athletic success also requires patience. If you do not see improvement, you can evaluate or alter your plan, but you cannot entirely give up on the plan.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Elite Athletes Gain Trust in their Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-gain-trust-in-their-game/)
- [Have Trust in Your Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)
- [Trust and Confidence are Complementary](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/trust-and-confidence-are-complementary-to-top-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [5 Ways to Maximize Your Athletic Potential](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/5-ways-to-maximize-your-athletic-potential/)

**Published:** May 19, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Perfectionist in the Game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Mistakes-1.jpg)

## How You Can Become the Best Athlete You Can Be 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How You Can Become the Best Athlete You Can Be](#How_You_Can_Become_the_Best_Athlete_You_Can_Be)
    - [5 Essential Ingredients to Maximize your Sporting Experience](#5_Essential_Ingredients_to_Maximize_your_Sporting_Experience)
    - [Tip for Maximizing Athletic Success](#Tip_for_Maximizing_Athletic_Success)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How do you become the best athlete you can be? Why do so many athletes fall well short of their potential?

When you understand the factors that interfere with improvement, you can apply mental strategies to build motivation and move your game forward.

How many times have you dreaded going to practice? You feel practice has become a punishment. Even games are no longer fun.

Many young athletes drop out of their sport at early ages. Many of those athletes feel too much pressure, feel not good enough, or aren’t seeing significant improvement in their game. No matter the reason, sport should be a positive experience for youth athletes.

Let’s look at what elite athletes do to maintain their motivation and strive to reach their potential.

Forward Sophia Smith plays for the United States Women’s National Team and the Portland Thorns FC of the National Women’s Soccer League. Smith was selected by Portland with the first overall pick of the 2020 NWSL College Draft and is highly committed to honing her craft.

Smith believes the key to athletic success is finding a healthy balance between constantly challenging yourself and enjoying the experience.

**SMITH**: *“\[Reaching my potential\] is really hard balance and something that I have always \[worked on\], and I’m still trying to figure out to this day – how to balance it in a healthy way. I always want to push myself and to strive for more, and never be satisfied. And I think that’s great, and I think that’s what all the best players in the world have to do. That’s the mindset that they have to have. And then, at the same time, I think if I am forgetting to have fun, I’m not going to be playing at my best. I’ll be putting too much stress and pressure on myself to the point where it’s showing on the field. And that’s absolutely not what I want.”*

Maintaining confidence, staying motivated, and uncovering your potential involves finding a healthy balance between striving to improve and enjoying the process.

### 5 Essential Ingredients to Maximize your Sporting Experience

1. Don’t compare yourself to other athletes – Comparison is the quickest way to lose confidence in your abilities and talent. Strive to be a better player than you were yesterday.
2. Shoot for progress, not perfection – Trying to be perfect will cause you to give in (give less effort) or give up (quit your sport altogether).
3. Enjoy the grind – Find reasons to challenge yourself each training session or practice. One small practice goal can motivate you to push yourself, even during monotonous training sessions.
4. Be patient – Nothing happens overnight. Elite, Olympic, and professional athletes grind for years. That is the reason they become elite. Even though you don’t see immediate improvement, it does not mean you are not progressing.
5. Have fun – When you have fun, you will persist longer and be more willing to make the sacrifices needed to be your best.

Success is not easy. However, it should not be a miserable experience either.

### Tip for Maximizing Athletic Success

The recipe for success is quite simple: work hard, challenge yourself, find a balance between life inside and outside of sport, and have fun.

If you can accomplish these four tasks regularly, you will achieve more than you can imagine.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Reach for Your Athletic Potential ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-reach-for-your-athletic-potential/)
- [Mindset and How to Reach Your Athletic Potential](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-and-how-to-reach-your-athletic-potential/)
- [8 Tips to Unlock Potential in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/8-tips-to-unlock-potential-in-sports/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How Athletes Can Control Emotions - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-control-emotions/)

**Published:** May 25, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

When you make a bad play or something doesn’t go your way during competition, do you get **frustrated or upset easily?**

In this **[sports psychology video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzd84dEmJVQ)**, Dr. Cohn discusses how to control your emotions when things aren’t going your way.

How do you maintain composure during the game? Learn how to have **emotional control** and maintain composure as an athlete.

Watch this **Sports Psychology Video** to learn more about finding out [**how to control your emotions**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzd84dEmJVQ "how to control your emotions") in difficult moments.

**Video on Controlling Emotions**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

- [**Control Your Emotions When Returning From an Injury**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/control-your-emotions-when-returning-from-an-injury/)
- [**How Your Emotions Affect Your Team’s Mood**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-your-emotions-affect-your-teams-mood/)
- [**Focus on What You Can Control in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness

---

### [How to Become a Clutch Athlete](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-become-a-clutch-athlete/)

**Published:** May 26, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Pro Athletes Improve Their Mental Game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-Pro-Athletes-Improve-Their-Mental-Game.jpg)

## Overcoming Underperformance for Athletes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Overcoming Underperformance for Athletes](#Overcoming_Underperformance_for_Athletes)
    - [Causes of Underperformance](#Causes_of_Underperformance)
    - [How to be a Clutch Performer:](#How_to_be_a_Clutch_Performer)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

How well do you **perform** when your back is up against the wall or when you are playing an elimination game?

Some athletes **perform better** when there is a sense of urgency or perceived pressure. We often call these athletes clutch in those situations.

However, are all athletes who play better when their backs are against the wall clutch? How about an athlete who underperforms against a lower-ranked opponent but kicks it into gear late in the game to steal the victory? Is that athlete clutch?

For example, if a Top-10 tennis player competes against a player ranked No. 200, generally speaking, the player with the better ranking should be able to win handily. Let’s set the stage, the top-10 player loses the first set 6-0 and finds himself down 4-0 in the second set.

He is not necessarily being outplayed as underperforming due to a lack of effort and focus. Late in the second set, the Top-10 player kicks it into gear and wins the second set 6-4 and the third set 6-2 for the victory.

Is that player clutch because he won or just an athlete who overcame underperformance early in the competition?

### Causes of Underperformance

Underperformance is caused by taking another opponent lightly or thinking you can magically flip a switch to turn the game around. If you wait to give your complete preparation, effort, and focus, often, it will be too late.

Underperformance can be avoided by adopting a champion mindset to every game or competition. A champion mindset approaches every competition with equal importance, whether you are competing against a top-ranked opponent or a person ranked 200th, a team with a winning record, or a winless team.

In their Stanley Cup playoff series against the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Florida Panthers were down three games and facing elimination from the playoffs…

The Panthers underperformed throughout the series and lost Game 3, 5-1. Despite averaging a league-high 4.11 goals per game during the regular season, the Panthers have scored only three goals through three games in the second round of the playoffs.

Florida coach Andrew Brunette talked about the team’s underperformance throughout the playoff series.

**BRUNETTE**: “*\[The Lightning\] have more will and more desire than we do. We’re a good team when (our) backs are against the wall, and it looks bleak. Hopefully, we can find some energy and some passion and some joy.*“

Having the ability to perform is not enough to perform at your peak. To be on top of your game, you need to approach each game as a playoff game, a championship meet, or a high-level tournament.

### How to be a Clutch Performer:

Start by understanding what causes you to underperform in competition. Do you prepare differently depending upon the opponent? Do you feel more pressure to be perfect? Are you worried about disappointing others?

When you understand what leads to underperforming, you can take steps to improve…

Most of the time, athletes underperform due to fear of failure. That means you get too worried about outcomes and what others think about your performance.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Perfectionism Hurts Athletes During Competition**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionism-hurts-athletes-during-competition/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)[**Performing Well Under Pressure**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[**Self-Intimidation for Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How to Deal With Outcome Predictions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-outcome-predictions/)

**Published:** June 2, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![facing adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/9-24-sr-large.jpg)

## Do Predictions From Others Affect Your Performance?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do Predictions From Others Affect Your Performance?](#Do_Predictions_From_Others_Affect_Your_Performance)
    - [The best strategy to deal with predictions is to view them as external noise.](#The_best_strategy_to_deal_with_predictions_is_to_view_them_as_external_noise)
    - [Dealing with Predictions and Opinions:](#Dealing_with_Predictions_and_Opinions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

For example, if you overheard your coach telling another person that you would probably lose or win a competition, how much would that comment affect your play? Would you buy into that prediction, or would you stay focused and just “go for it?”

Many athletes hear **predictions** and accept them as facts. In fact, some athletes make predictions in their heads as if they were fortune tellers, “That team is undefeated. They are going to crush us today,” or “That athlete is ranked No. 1. There is no way I can win.”

Buying into a **prediction** makes it more likely to occur. Here’s why… When you predict you will lose, you will become anxious. You feel your muscles tense up. You have difficulty focusing. These conditions will throw off your mechanics.

You will hold back in your effort. These conditions set you up to fail just because you predicted you would fail.

A **prediction** or preconceived ideas about an opponent is a statement about what might happen in the future. Predictions are not facts but guesses about a possible outcome.

Even if the prediction seems likely, it is not a guarantee. Think of how many times a weather forecast was incorrect. Just because a weather person predicts a sunny day, sometimes those predictions are wrong.

Predictions can become expectations, and negative expectations become self-fulfilling prophecies.

### The best strategy to deal with predictions is to view them as external noise.

You may not be able to prevent the noise, but you can choose not to pay attention to it. Paying attention to noise or distractions makes them bigger.

In Game 6 of the 2022 NBA Eastern Conference finals, the Miami Heat faced off against the Boston Celtics. The Celtics were favored to win. With the Celtics being up 3-2 in the series, many thought the Celtics would close out the series in Game 6.

Even Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green said, “We’re gonna play Boston,” after the Warriors eliminated the Dallas Mavericks to reach the NBA Finals.

However, the Heat ignored the “predictions” from others and pulled off an impressive 111-103 victory to force a Game 7.

After the game, veteran Heat forward P.J. Tucker commented about predictions being mere opinions and winning comes down to physically outperforming your opponent.

**TUCKER**: “*Tell Draymond \[Green\] I said, ‘Thank you,’ It’s funny. We laughed. I thought it was funny because he knows better than anybody. We still got to play the game. Got to play. There are no guarantees of anybody winning in this league on a night-in and night-out basis.*“

Predictions from others are opinions and have no impact on the game unless you allow those opinions to seep into your mind and take over your focus.

When you prepare to compete, remember that what you think matters… what you focus on matters… and your effort matters.

### Dealing with Predictions and Opinions:

Remind yourself of the weather example. Just because someone makes a prediction does not mean that opinion will come to pass.

You got to play the game. You need to show up and compete. You have to give yourself a chance. Avoid expectations and predictions about how it should go.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Overcome the Fear of Negative Outcomes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)
- [How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [How to Have Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-have-stable-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

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### [Freeing up Your Strokes in Tennis](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/freeing-up-your-strokes-in-tennis/)

**Published:** June 6, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Do your swings feel tight and controlled when you’re on the tennis court? If you are not swinging fully in matches, watch this video. Most of the time, tennis players are afraid to fail or lose. In this tennis psychology video, Dr. Cohn helps you free up your strokes in matches. Watch this video to learn about swinging freely and fear of failure…

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [Tips For Focusing When Playing 2-3 Strokes Down](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focusing-tips-when-playing-down/)
- [On Comebacks, Meltdowns, and The Mental Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/on-comebacks-meltdowns-and-the-mental-game/)
- [Mental Game Tips for Focusing During Long Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-tips-for-focusing-during-long-competitions/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

---

### [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)

**Published:** June 30, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Perfectionist in the Game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Mistakes-1.jpg)

## Finding Confidence After Failure 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Finding Confidence After Failure](#Finding_Confidence_After_Failure)
    - [Bouncing Back From Mistakes](#Bouncing_Back_From_Mistakes)
    - [Assessing Performance for More Confidence:](#Assessing_Performance_for_More_Confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How do you feel after blowing a lead and losing a game? Do you question your abilities? Do you feel less confident about the next competition?

What you tell yourself after a performance will impact your emotions and **confidence**. In addition, your thoughts about a recent performance will affect your preparation and performance for the following competition.

Perspective is your view of a performance. In other words, perspective is how you evaluate how well you played in a competition. So, your perspective is always true for you.

Perspective may not be based on facts, but it is YOUR point of view or YOUR reality. Unfortunately, outperforming your reality is practically impossible.

For example, if you were a hockey goalie and gave up two goals in the last minutes of play to lose a game, you may see yourself as a below-average goalie.

If you view yourself as a bad goalie, you will likely live up to that negative assessment. You will lack **confidence** for the next game. You will be anxious when the puck is in the defensive zone.

Instead of tracking the puck, you will be distracted by thoughts of the other team scoring. You will be tight, and your reaction time will be slow. You will stay back in the goal and not challenge shooters.

### Bouncing Back From Mistakes

These times are when you allow the opposing team to score easy goals. In essence, according to your last game, you proved yourself correct when you thought you were a bad goalie.

Imagine how different you would prepare and play for the next game if you evaluated your performance more positively. Now, you cannot change the results of a game that has already been played, but you can look at your performance objectively.

You may have given up some late-game goals, but does that mean you made no positive plays the entire game?

Looking for your successes in a game, no matter how small, helps keep your **confidence** high. You will prepare better for the next game when you have high confidence.

You may think looking for something positive is essentially lying to yourself but seeing everything as unfavorable is the biggest lie.

After a disastrous fourth quarter, the Golden State Warriors lost to the Boston Celtics 120-108 in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Golden State entered the fourth quarter with a 12-point lead, but the Celtics stormed back to outscore the Warriors 40-16.

After the game, Warriors forward Draymond Green viewd Golden State’s performance in a positive perspective.

**GREEN**: *“They stayed within striking distance, and they made shots late. We’ll be fine. We’ll figure out the ways we can stop them from getting those threes and take them away. But I don’t think it was a rhythm thing. We pretty much dominated the game for the first 41, 42 minutes, so we’ll be fine.”*

The result of this perspective was a dominant performance in Game two, where the Warriors won 107-88.

Perspective is seeing your whole performance, not dwelling only on bad plays.

### Assessing Performance for More Confidence:

View your performance objectively. After competition, think about two things you did well first. It might help you cool down for 30 minutes first.

Then, think about two areas of your game you want to improve in the next week of training. Take a growth perspective to your game.

A positive post-competition evaluation can impact your motivation in future practices, training sessions, and competitions.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Improve Self-Talk to Reach Your Peak Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improve-self-talk-to-reach-your-peak-performance/)

**Published:** June 9, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![facing adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/9-24-sr-large.jpg)

## Your Internal Talk and Peak Performance 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Your Internal Talk and Peak Performance](#Your_Internal_Talk_and_Peak_Performance)
    - [The issue is not your initial response to a bad game. The problem is your persistent negative response.](#The_issue_is_not_your_initial_response_to_a_bad_game_The_problem_is_your_persistent_negative_response)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you tend to be excessively self-critical? After every mistake, error, or bad game, do you put yourself down?

Excessive self-criticism leads to fractured confidence, low motivation, and underperformance.

Constant self-criticism is a loop: bad performance… excessive self-criticism… low confidence and motivation… poor performance…

Breaking the cycle starts with changing your self-talk.

When you are playing below your ability, of course, you will be upset. You may be critical of your lapse in focus or judgment after a couple of wild pitches, throwing errors, or mistakes. While doubts may pop up during a three-game hitting slump. These are normal reactions.

When you dedicate a lot of time and effort, you want to see the fruits of your labor. Initial emotional responses are a sign that you care.

### The issue is not your initial response to a bad game. The problem is your persistent negative response.

When you bombard your mind with negative criticism, one bad game turns into two, three, or four bad games. A hit-less game turns into a slump. Booting an easy grounder leads to more errors.

In reality, what does hyper self-criticism do for you? Does it make you a better ballplayer? Is there any benefit to being overcritical of yourself?

Stopping the cycle by changing your self-talk is the first step in getting back on track.

Think of what you would say to a teammate who was struggling. Would you tell them that they should quit? Would you tell your struggling teammate they will probably underperform for the rest of the season?

No! You would highlight their strengths. You would tell them to keep working hard. You would say to them they will break through soon.

If you would feed a struggling teammate positive messages, you should tell yourself the same messages.

Baltimore Orioles manager Brandon Hyde has been feeding positive messages to rookie catcher Adley Rutschman. Rutschman has been disappointed with his early performance at the major league level. Rutschman is batting .149 in 12 games since being promoted from Triple-A and has been charged with two throwing errors.

Still, Hyde fully keeps feeding Rutschman messages to get his offense on track. Hyde is confident Rutschman will be a solid major league player.

**HYDE**: “*I told \[Rutschman\] when he first got here, ‘I just want you to relax. It’s going to be impossible to relax, but relax as best you possibly can and have fun with it… It just takes adjustments, and it takes a little bit of time, and he’s doing just fine.*”

Hyde knows that positive messages lead to positive performance.

**HYDE**: “*I know how hard it’s going to be and difficult it is, and he just has to kind of get over the early stage of being a major league player. It’s not easy. I just think support, that’s what we’re going to do, and that’s what we’re here for is to stay positive with him.*”

When you send yourself the message to be patient, you will be more patient in games. When you tell yourself you can succeed at the next level, you will perform better.

**Developing Patience:**

Talk to yourself, in the same manner you would to a struggling teammate.

Develop the positive self-talk off the field that you can use on the field such as “stay patient, let the game come to me.”

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Self-Talk Can Help You Rebound ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-self-talk-can-help-you-rebound/)
- [Overcome Negative Self-talk in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcome-negative-self-talk-in-sports/)
- [Positive or Negative Self-Talk. Which One Do You Use?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/positive-self-talk/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Why Athletes Quit Sports: Good and Not Good Reasons - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-athletes-quit-sports-good-and-not-reasons/)

**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this sports psychology video, I discuss **why athletes quit sports** and the right and wrong reasons to quit:

Here’s the question of the week:

*“I’m playing soccer and I’m thinking about quitting because I am literally the worst one on the team. I tried to tell my parents that I don’t want to play soccer anymore, but they just kept me in. I think it’s stupid to keep playing for their enjoyment. What should I do?”*

Watch the video now to learn what you should do when you or your athletes feel like quitting your sport. What are the **[right and wrong reasons to stop playing sports](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRzH-w4h3HE "right and wrong reasons to stop playing sports")**?

**Video on Why an Athlete Wants to Quit**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [**When Soccer Players Want to Quit**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-soccer-players-want-to-quit/)
- [**Parents: Helping Young Athlete Who Wants to Quit**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/parents-helping-young-athlete-who-wants-to-quit/)
- [**Parents: When Athletes Want to Quit Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/parents-athletes-quitting-sports/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How Athletes Can Use Constructive Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-use-constructive-criticism/)

**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Moving Forward After a Bad Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Poor-Performance.jpg)

## Tips for Receiving Constructive Criticism

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Tips for Receiving Constructive Criticism](#Tips_for_Receiving_Constructive_Criticism)
    - [Never Take Constructive Criticism Personally](#Never_Take_Constructive_Criticism_Personally)
    - [How to Use Constructive Criticism:](#How_to_Use_Constructive_Criticism)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

How do you respond to **constructive criticism**? Do you reject it outright or welcome it from coaches?

Why do some athletes reject corrections or **constructive feedback** from their coach?

Athletes fear receiving **constructive criticism** for several reasons:

- They feel they are negatively being judged.
- The criticism confirms some self-doubt they have about themselves.
- They have perfectionist standards.
- They fear they are letting down others.
- They are given feedback in an aggressive or disapproving tone.

Some athletes see the criticism as a list of everything they do wrong. In these instances, the feedback is dismissed or ignored. Other athletes view criticism as constructive or advice on how to improve their game.

Accepting and using feedback is a critical mental skill for athletes. When you develop this mental skill, feedback will not feel like an attack on your ability but like a suggestion on how to improve your performance.

### Never Take Constructive Criticism Personally

However, not every coach or parent is skilled in how to provide feedback effectively. So finding the message in the criticism is up to you.

Here’s a practical example from the Boston Celtics. The Celtics had built an 18-point lead against the Golden State Warriors in the first half of Game 3 in the 2022 NBA Finals.

Boston built the lead by playing tough defense and controlling the ball on offense. The Celtics became reckless with the ball, committing foolish turnovers and allowing the Warriors to climb back into the game.

In the fourth quarter, Boston head coach Ime Udoka was fuming during a timeout. After the timeout, the Celtics collected themselves, regained their composure, and eventually won the game 116-100.

After the game, Boston guard Marcus Smart commented on how the team acted on the coach’s feedback and was not offended by the tone of the message.

**SMART**: “*You want to know what you’re doing wrong so you can fix it. You can’t fix nothing if you don’t know what the problem is. So we definitely appreciate his honesty and his openness*.”

Criticism can feel like an attack, but often there is a message that you can focus on and disregard the negative tone.

It is normal for your defense mechanism to kick in, but criticism can be helpful or, at least, the message within the criticism. Rather than throwing out the message due to the negative delivery and the person delivering the message, grab hold of the parts of the feedback that can help your game.

### How to Use Constructive Criticism:

When you receive criticism, ask yourself three questions:

1\. What is the message?
2\. Does this message apply to me?
3\. If yes, how can I use this feedback to improve my game?

**And do this:**

1\. Communicate with the person giving you feedback. Clarify the message.

2\. Challenge your defensiveness. Find out why are you bothered by receiving feedback?

3\. Focus on the message itself, not how the message is delivered. How the message was given is not as important as the information.

4\. Ask yourself if the feedback can help you and, if so, how you can apply it to your game.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How This Pro Manages Criticism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-pro-manages-criticism/)
- [How to Turn Negative Criticism into Motivation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-negative-criticism-into-motivation/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [The Mental Keys to Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mental-keys-to-stable-confidence/)

**Published:** July 21, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Confidence in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-big-2-1.jpg)

## Confidence Can be a Game Changer if You Master It

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Confidence Can be a Game Changer if You Master It](#Confidence_Can_be_a_Game_Changer_if_You_Master_It)
    - [What is Stable Confidence?](#What_is_Stable_Confidence)
    - [Sources of Confidence](#Sources_of_Confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What gives you the biggest boost of **confidence**? Knowing what fuels your **confidence** is essential so you can refill your **confidence** tank or keep it high…

**Confidence** can go up and down for athletes. You probably have experienced several times through your athletic career where your confidence stores were low due to a slump or injury.

You need more than just **confidence** to perform at your peak. You need stable **confidence**.

### What is Stable Confidence?

Often, athletes have fragile **confidence**. In other words, winning makes you feel skilled, **confident**, and on top. However, when you lose, you feel in the dumps, lacking talent and less **confidence**.

Stable **confidence** is a strong belief in your abilities regardless of results. When you win, you feel **confident**, and when you lose, you still maintain a high belief in your ability to perform.

### Sources of Confidence

You maintain stable **confidence** by fueling those reserves daily.

The following strategies will help you develop and maintain stable **confidence**:

Think of Best-Case Scenarios – Instead of thinking of the bottom dropping out during a competition, think about how you would perform when firing on all cylinders.

Visualize Success – Seeing yourself performing an impeccable routine, running a personal best, or driving in a game-winning run are effective ways to fuel your **confidence**.

Flip on the Positive Self-Talk Switch – Consciously feed yourself positive thoughts. Affirmations are a sound strategy for building mental strength and **confidence**.

Relive Success – Mental reviewing past successes helps to remind you of your strengths and abilities.

Put in the Work – Mental and physical training help prepare you for peak performance. Nothing beats hard work and peak preparation to maintain high **confidence**.

**The 2022 Track and Field World Championships**

At the World Championships, the best of the best gather to compete. Winning is often determined by fractions of a second or by centimeters. The athlete in your heat or event is very similar in ability. The difference-maker is mental factors, more specifically **confidence**.

Take, for instance, U.S. track athlete Fred Kerley. Kerley, who earned the silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, won the men’s 100-meter final at the 2022 Track and Field World Championships by two-hundredths of a second.

Kerley finished in 9.86 seconds to win his first world championship. In a pre-event news conference, Kerley appeared highly **confident**, as if he had no doubts about winning the title.

**KERLEY**: *“I believe in myself, first and foremost. I put the work in to be great. I don’t come to run to be second-best.”*

Kerley exhibited high **confidence** and belief in his ability before stepping into the arena.

High **confidence** is not something that magically appears in competition. It comes from being proactive every day.

Identify three skills you have to add to your **confidence tank, such as quick feet. What helps you perform each of those skills well? Remind yourself every day** what you have instead of what’s missing from your game.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Build Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-stable-confidence-2/)
- [How to Have Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-have-stable-confidence/)
- [How To Have Stable Confidence in Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-have-stable-confidence-in-games/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Evaluating Performance and Maintaining Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/evaluating-performance-and-maintaining-confidence/)

**Published:** August 4, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Confidence in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Mentally-Prepare-For-Tryouts.jpg)

## Keeping your Confidence at a Consistent Level

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Keeping your Confidence at a Consistent Level](#Keeping_your_Confidence_at_a_Consistent_Level)
    - [Here’s an effective assessment model. After each competition, ask yourself the following four questions:](#Heres_an_effective_assessment_model_After_each_competition_ask_yourself_the_following_four_questions)
    - [Tip for Evaluating Performances Objectively:](#Tip_for_Evaluating_Performances_Objectively)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Are you highly self-critical after a competition?

Does your confidence drop after competing?

Many athletes pick apart their **performance**, no matter how well they **perform**.

These athletes create a mental laundry list of every little aspect they didn’t **perform** at the highest level.

You don’t need to be a perfectionist to be highly self-critical. The point is that most athletes ignore the positive and highlight the negative.

When you don’t see the whole picture or evaluate your **performance** objectively, your confidence will be adversely affected.

Let’s look at how harsh self-evaluations affect confidence.

Perhaps you had a coach or your parents nag you after a competition and point out your mistakes.

 You may have achieved a personal best, beat a rival, or made the semi-final, but you were told, “If you did this better, you would have achieved that.”

Unfair assessments of your **performance** hurt your confidence.

However, many athletes do the same thing to themselves.

A negative assessment is short-sighted. Partial assessments rarely provide feedback on how to improve your game.

How to effectively assess **performance** after a competition

### Here’s an effective assessment model. After each competition, ask yourself the following four questions:

1\. **What did I do well?** When you identify positive aspects of your **performance**, you reinforce those actions in future competitions.

2\. **What needs improvement?** When you recognize areas that need to be improved, you gain a clear sense of focus for future training or practice sessions.

3\. **What is my plan for improvement?** An action plan provides directions for how you intend to work on these areas.

4\. **What are the three biggest successes of my performance?** When you highlight your accomplishments, you keep your confidence high.

Objective evaluation of competitive **performances** helps you maintain confidence and sustain motivation to improve your game.
How do elite athletes evaluate **performance**?

Elite athletes achieve elite status because they see the good and not-so-good in their **performances**.

For example, Leanne Wong won the all-around competition and the balance beam and vault titles at the 2022 U.S. Classic. Wong was a 2020 U.S. Olympic alternate and reigning world all-around silver medalist and is gearing up for another Olympic run.

While Wong won, she still has room for improvement.

She fell on uneven bars while attempting a new skill and committed a line violation on her second vault attempt.

Chelsie Memmel, technical lead for Team USA’s women’s program, and Wong viewed the whole picture when evaluating her **performance**.

**MEMMEL**: “*Saw a lot of things that need improvement, beam being one of them. Beam is a little rough, has been a little rough. We definitely have work to do, but I’ve seen a lot of good things and think we are in a good place moving forward.*”

As you can see, Wong and Memmel identified successes and areas of improvement and saw Wong moving in the right direction.

Objectively evaluating your **performance** is a mental skill that produces better **performances** and improved confidence.

### Tip for Evaluating Performances Objectively:

Create a **performance** evaluation notebook. After each **performance**, ask yourself these four questions:

\* What did I do well?
\* What needs improvement? 
\* What is my plan for improvement? 
\* What are the three biggest successes of my **performance**?

By writing your answers in a notebook, you will be able to see your progress throughout the season and build your confidence throughout the year.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How to Build Stable Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-stable-confidence-2/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Mental Well-Being in Athletics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-well-being-in-athletics/)

**Published:** August 11, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Poised During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Poised-During-Competition.jpg)

## The Most Overlooked Aspect of being an Athlete

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Most Overlooked Aspect of being an Athlete](#The_Most_Overlooked_Aspect_of_being_an_Athlete)
    - [3 Misconceptions about the Mental Health of Athletes](#3_Misconceptions_about_the_Mental_Health_of_Athletes)
    - [Tip for Athletes Tending to their Mental Well-Being:](#Tip_for_Athletes_Tending_to_their_Mental_Well-Being)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

You can probably come up with a list of possibilities:

1. Time Management
2. Nutrition
3. Speed and Agility
4. Weight Training
5. Flexibility
6. Quick Decision Making

No doubt that many of these aspects can improve athletic performance.

However, athletes most often neglect themselves or their mental well-being. In recent years, the news has brought to the forefront many athletes who have come forth to talk about mental well-being, such as Lane Johnson (football), Michael Phelps (swimming), Simone Biles (gymnastics), Naomi Osaka (tennis), etc.

These high-profile athletes have highlighted how competitive pressure and life stressors have significantly impacted their lives and mental well-being.

### 3 Misconceptions about the Mental Health of Athletes

**MISCONCEPTION #1: “Focusing on mental health is a sign of mental weakness.”**

Mental health is stigmatized, especially in the world of sport. Recognizing the importance of mental well-being or the need for tending to mental health is a sign of strength.

The term “mental toughness” is often thrown around in the sporting world. However, mental toughness is not putting your head down and blasting through adversity. Mental toughness is recognizing the existence of adverse times, determining the cause and scope of the issues, and finding solutions or assistance to face our hardships.

**MISCONCEPTION #2: “Elite athletes do not have mental health issues.”**

When you think of a word to describe elite, Olympic, and professional athletes, you probably think of “warrior.” However, watching athletes compete, you only see a tiny portion of who they are. Just because an athlete has not publicly admitted to experiencing mental health issues doesn’t mean problems are nonexistent.

Athletes are more than physical beings. Prioritizing mental health helps you deal with the pressure of competition and life stressors.

**MISCONCEPTION #3: “Mental health does not affect athletic performance.”**

Some athletes can compete at a high level while experiencing emotional turmoil. However, athletes are not two separate people. It is ludicrous to think you can take the athlete out of the person or the person out of the athlete.

While we can learn to minimize mental health effects with outside help, putting a lid on our problems can have devastating impacts on who we are as athletes and humans in a stress-filled world.

NBA basketball player Kevin Love summed up mental health in the following statement.

**LOVE**: “*Everyone is going through something that we can’t see. The thing is because we can’t see it, we don’t know who is going through what and we don’t know when and we don’t always know why. Mental health is an invisible thing, but it touches all of us at some point or another. It is part of life.*“

It all boils down to one guiding principle. Athletes are people. People are emotional beings. Emotional beings will experience problems in many areas of life. You can become the best versions of yourself when you reach out for support.

Your mental well-being affects every aspect of your life. If you want to become successful in athletics, education, business, relationships, and life in general, you cannot afford to neglect your mental well-being.

### Tip for Athletes Tending to their Mental Well-Being:

This tip is essential. Mental well-being is crucial for our overall health. It is vital to overcome the stigma of mental well-being and the belief that personal issues are a sign of weakness.

Not only is it okay to ask for support, but support is also necessary to become the best athlete and person we can become.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Succeed Against the Odds in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-succeed-against-the-odds-in-sports/)
- [Creating a Healthy Experience for Young Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/creating-a-healthy-experience-for-young-athletes/)
- [Achieve Proactive Confidence for a Healthy Life Balance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/achieve-proactive-confidence-for-a-healthy-life-balance/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Athletes Mental Health, Mental Toughness

---

### [How to Start Firing on All Cylinders](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-start-firing-on-all-cylinders/)

**Published:** July 24, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Shooter's Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/basketball-image-big.jpg)

## Learn How to Best Prepare for Competition 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Learn How to Best Prepare for Competition](#Learn_How_to_Best_Prepare_for_Competition)
    - [The Snowball Effect](#The_Snowball_Effect)
    - [Professional Sports and Mental Preparation](#Professional_Sports_and_Mental_Preparation)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Do you start competitions slow? Some athletes start slowly in competitions because of a lack of pregame **preparation**.

These athletes go through the motions in pregame and believe they can flip the switch once the competition starts. Unfortunately, this mindset at the start of competition does not help you start well.

While you think you can work your way into the physical flow of the game, your lack of mental **preparation** will show at the first sign of adversity or pressure.

To make matters more challenging, if you start the game slow and your opponents are mentally engaged from the start, you may fall behind quickly and give your opponents the edge.

### The Snowball Effect

Ignoring pregame mental **preparation** sets a negative tone for a competition. Early mistakes lead to more errors. These mistakes give your opponents an early advantage.

Still, you believe you can easily and quickly turn things around. However, your lackadaisical play continues. You mess up routine plays, and your opponents build an early lead.

After several minutes, you can’t seem to close the gap in the score. You start feeling pressured not to fall behind by too many points. Nothing seems to go your way, and your opponent’s lead appears to become insurmountable.

You become frustrated and make more careless mistakes. You feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, and fear criticism from your coach, teammates, or parents.

Even though the competition hasn’t ended, you think you have lost. You want to walk off the field and end your misery.

Not being mentally **prepared** is like giving your opponent a head start or spotting them points/goals before the competition or game begins.

Pregame mental **preparation** gives you a significant edge and helps you mentally fire on all cylinders from the first pitch, whistle, tip-off, puck drop, etc.

### Professional Sports and Mental Preparation

In a midseason 2022 MLB game between the Boston Red Sox and the Toronto Blue Jays, Toronto set a franchise record for runs in a game (28), beating the Sox 28-5. Meanwhile, Boston set a franchise record for most runs allowed in a game (28).

Toronto committed to starting the game with an energized winning mentality. Toronto interim manager John Schneider stated his team made a conscious decision to be mentally and physically **prepared** from the game’s very first pitch.

**SCHNEIDER**: “*We talked about it before the game, how you can come out a little bit sleepy or you can come out hot. I think we came out hot, obviously.*“

Talent alone does not win games or lead to peak performances. Playing at your peak requires conditioning and **preparation**. When you commit to a motivated mindset, you will approach pre-game **preparation** with the same importance as the competition.

Simply put, peak performance starts with peak **preparation**. Think of how you want to start a competition. What mindset will produce peak results?

During your pregame **preparation**, visualize yourself starting the competition with this mindset. See yourself being confident, feeling energized, and firing on all cylinders.

In addition, be sure to have your intensity up at a level that you can focus your best and this level is different for each person. Do you need to be fired up or relaxed to have a good start?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Be Prepared When You Go in For a Starter ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/be-prepared-when-you-go-in-for-a-starter/)
- [How to Mentally Prepare for Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-prepare-for-adversity/)
- [How to Be Mentally Prepared for the Unexpected](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-mentally-prepared-for-the-unexpected/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Pregame Routine Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [How to Build Team Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-team-confidence/)

**Published:** August 18, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![team confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Using-Visualization-to-Overcome-Pressures.jpg)

## Teamwork, Confidence, and Team Success

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Teamwork, Confidence, and Team Success](#Teamwork_Confidence_and_Team_Success)
    - [The Building Blocks of Team Confidence](#The_Building_Blocks_of_Team_Confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Article](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Article)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What is the main ingredient in team success? Just as individual success requires **confidence**, team success revolves around team **confidence**.

Team **confidence** is comprised of each player believing that the team has the necessary skills to accomplish their goals, such as winning a tournament, beating a rival, or making the playoffs.

High team **confidence** is the collective belief in the team’s ability to cope well with setbacks and to work towards a common objective.

For example, the University of Illinois women’s soccer team focused on team unity and **confidence** throughout the 2022 preseason.

In their last preseason games, Illinois ran off a pair of victories, outscoring their opponents 7-0. Freshman Lia Howard stated the team’s belief in one another and work ethic were the keys to their success.

HOWARD: “I think the biggest thing in that game was our work ethic. We also went into that game believing in every single person that was on the field, which was just such an incredible feeling. Before the game, we had a little team chat. And we were all like, ‘We believe in each other. We trust each other to do this, so let’s get it done.’ And that’s exactly what we did. And at the end of the day, I think we just worked so, so hard for that, and we wanted it so bad, and the result definitely proved that.”

### The Building Blocks of Team Confidence

Team **confidence** is not built or lost in a day. **Confidence** is a gradual process, and each player adds to the overall **confidence** and success of the team.

**Building team confidence includes:**

1. The belief that every player brings something unique to the table. When every player feels valuable, they are more willing to sacrifice for the team.
2. The team developing a culture of hard work. In training, healthy competition pushes each member to reach their potential.
3. The importance of team goals being a priority. While players should set individual goals, the main focus should be on the team goal.
4. Supporting one another. Helping each player through bad games helps the overall performance of the team.
5. Healthy communication among team members and coaching staff is essential. Never let problems fester. It is important to tackle problems head-on.
6. Players should focus on the strengths of their teammates. Each player has strengths, and focusing on those strengths builds individual **confidence** and **confidence** in each other.
7. The mentality that it is okay to fail. Players who fear making mistakes or letting the team down will hold back in games.
8. Each player should take responsibility for their play. Owning up to mistakes, rather than pointing the finger, adds to the mutual respect of all team members.

Without cohesion, mutual respect, and team **confidence**, team success will always be elusive.

Always focus on building up your teammates instead of tearing them down. Just this one point of emphasis can dramatically increase the success of the team.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Article

- [How to Grow Competition Confidence ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [How to Evaluate Losses for More Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-evaluate-losses-for-more-confidence/)
- [How Preparation Boosts Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Confidence in sports, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Mental Game Keys to Take Your Practice to Competition - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-keys-to-take-your-practice-to-competition/)

**Published:** August 4, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this video, you learn sports psychology **strategies** to take your **practice game to competition**

Do you play more tentatively in matches compared to practice? Watch this video to learn how to play your **[“normal” game when you go from practice to matches](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmFIlbOxb5g&feature=youtu.be ""normal" game when you go from practice to matches")?**

**Video on Taking Practice Game to Competition**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [**The Mental Keys to Stable Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mental-keys-to-stable-confidence/)
- [**3 Keys to Finishing Strong in Competition**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-keys-to-finishing-strong-in-competition/)
- [**The Mental Game Keys to Quality Practice**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mental-game-keys-to-quality-practice/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness

---

### [When Your Athletes Play too Safe in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-your-athletes-play-too-safe-in-sports-2/)

**Published:** February 26, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps parents understand a young athlete who has fragile confidence. Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode: Sports Parent: *“My son plays for a top soccer team in the state. He does great at practice, and he does amazing in other sports when he’s one of the best in the team. Right now, he is not the best on the team, and he has this fear of messing up during the game and does play less confidently. How Can I help him with this?”*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[Athletes Who Play Too Safe During Games – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-play-too-safe-during-games/)
- [Why Playing Safe Doesn’t Help You Win](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-playing-safe-doesnt-help-you-win/)
- [Do You Have An Athlete Who Plays It Safe When In The Lead?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-have-an-athlete-who-plays-it-safe-when-in-the-lead/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

---

### [How to Keep Shooting After Missing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-shooting-after-missing/)

**Published:** April 17, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps a player on how to stay confident in shooting after a couple of misses during the game, Dr. Cohn answers a question from Sam who had to say this about his game.

Sam said: *“If I miss a couple of shots in the game, I lose confidence. Or if somebody makes a negative comment, I lose confidence. Eventually, I end up being more hesitant and not play as aggressive. And I miss everything then. Inside, outside, drives. It’s hard for me to get out of it. Any ideas on how to get out of that?*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [How to Keep Shooting After Missing Shots – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-shooting-after-missing-shots/)
- [When Missing Shots Early in Game – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/missing-shots-early/)
- [How To Have The Shooter’s Mentality](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-have-the-shooters-mentality/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

---

### [Importance of Team Communication](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/importance-of-team-communication/)

**Published:** May 7, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps a soccer player understand the importance of team communication to achieve success. In addition, he highlights the mindset of moving on from past mistakes and staying in the moment of the game. In this episode, Dr. Cohn Answers a question from Lee who had to say this about this about his game:

**LEE**: *“I play goalie on my soccer league team. I am wanting to improve my inner game. Sometimes I have games where I shut down. I get quiet and don’t communicate with my team well. I also make unnecessary errors that could be avoided if my mind was right. How can I be more consistent with my mental game and not go into a shell and stop talking?”*

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**The Importance of Team Communication**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-team-communication/)
- [**Communication For Team Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/communication-for-team-success/)
- [**How to be a Team Player Like Kevin Durant**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-a-team-player-like-kevin-durant/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Communicating With Teammates, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Managing Your Emotions When Adversity Hits](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-your-emotions-when-adversity-hits/)

**Published:** May 29, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps a player who is struggling to compose himself during difficult times of the game.

Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers from Zed who had to say this about his game:

> ZED: *“How do I control my emotions when I play. If something doesn’t go my way, I lose my head. How do I stop other people from getting into my head when not having a good game or making mistakes? I get irritated when others are yelling at me.”*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master **mental performnace coach** who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes. Learn more at peaksports.com.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-teammates-who-make-mistakes/)[How to Mentally Prepare for Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-prepare-for-adversity/)
- [Don’t Let Adversity Affect Your Game in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/dont-let-adversity-affect-your-game-in-sports/)
- [How to Overcome Adversity for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Adversity In Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [When Soccer Players Want to Quit](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-soccer-players-want-to-quit/)

**Published:** June 19, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps a player who wants to quit his game because he thinks he is not the best on the team, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode:

Duane: *“I’m playing soccer and I’m thinking about quitting because I am literally the worst one on the team. I tried to tell my parents that I don’t want to play soccer anymore, but they just kept me in. I think it’s stupid to keep playing for their enjoyment. What should I do?”*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
- [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

- [Why Athletes Quit Sports: Good and Not Good Reasons – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-athletes-quit-sports-good-and-not-reasons/)
- [Parents: Helping Young Athlete Who Wants to Quit](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/parents-helping-young-athlete-who-wants-to-quit/)
- [Parents: When Athletes Want to Quit Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/parents-athletes-quitting-sports/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

---

### [What Does it Mean to Give Full Effort in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-does-it-mean-to-give-full-effort-in-sports/)

**Published:** July 10, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps parents understand a young athlete who has fragile confidence.

Here is the question Dr. Cohn answers in this episode: Sports Parent:

**NICK**: *“I feel that some young athletes think they are “trying hard” but have no clue about what trying hard actually feels like. My son plays hockey and has earned a spot on a more competitive team. He never exerts the needed effort to win puck battles or to take the puck from opponents. He might not be confident in himself enough. Do you have any suggestions on how to promote that high effort level?”*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [How to Focus Better During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-better-during-competition/)
- [How to Focus on What You Can Control in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports/)
- [Case Studies In Sports Psychology – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/case-studies-sports-psychology/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Overcoming Pressure and Anxiety in Matches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcoming-pressure-and-anxiety-in-matches/)

**Published:** July 31, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps a tennis player who loses against opponents who he thinks he can beat easily, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode:

**ROGER**: *“I have anxiety, pressure before my matches. I lost to a player whom I could have defeated easily. He just hit the shots slowly and not deep. I know how to attack, but instead of attacking, I just played slowly and gave short balls. The problem is I can hit with pace and deep in practice but not in matches. Is this due to pressure or strategy?”*

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [How to Manage Anxiety in Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-manage-anxiety-in-competitions/)
- [When Athletes Have Anxiety Before Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-athletes-have-anxiety-before-games/)
- [How to Overcome Tension and Anxiety](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-tension-and-anxiety/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Pressure in Sports for Athletes, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Strategies to Set and Achieve Goals](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)

**Published:** July 4, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Grow Confidence in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/swimming-grow-confidence.jpg)

## Goal Getting for Athletes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Goal Getting for Athletes](#Goal_Getting_for_Athletes)
    - [Hope lacks clarity.](#Hope_lacks_clarity)
    - [Goals require an assessment of progress and adjustments when necessary.](#Goals_require_an_assessment_of_progress_and_adjustments_when_necessary)
    - [Setting and Achieving Goals](#Setting_and_Achieving_Goals)
    - [Related Articles:](#Related_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Have you ever wondered why you might **fall short of your goals**? Some athletes consistently miss the mark and fail to achieve their athletic dreams. The reason is that those dreams are merely hopes, not goals.

Think of this scenario; you are a swimmer who wants to make a national cut in the 100-yard freestyle. You know you have to break 46 seconds but are unsure of the exact time standard.

You are not even sure of the best race strategy for yourself. **With no clarity, you have minimal direction** in your training. Do you think the chances would be in your favor to make Nationals?

### Hope lacks clarity.

A goal is clearly defined. Goals provide a very specific target. For example, a basketball player can set a goal to increase his free throw percentage from 85% to 87% for the season.

The goal identifies the starting point and the desired destination. The **goal can be measured** and has a completion date (the end of the season). Hope lacks planning.

A goal has a detailed action plan. **A goal plan** is a set of instructions or steps that, when acted upon, move you in the direction of your goal. The plan could include taking 50 extra free throws after practice, 3 x per week, and working with your coach on technique. Hope lacks effort and relies on luck.

Goals require action every day, not just any action, but a focused effort in line with your **goal plan**. Goal plans are flexible and can change due to their lack of effectiveness or changing circumstances.

### Goals require an assessment of progress and adjustments when necessary.

In our basketball example, a wrist injury can interrupt a player’s progress. Still, players could adjust their plan by replacing practice with rehab and adding visualization sessions to improve performance.

The following is an excellent example of practical goal setting and flexibility…

Steele Johnson is a six-time individual and eight-time synchro U.S. champion diver at the senior level. At the Olympic Games Rio 2016, Johnson earned a silver medal at his Olympic debut in 10-meter synchro with partner David Boudia.

Johnson continues to pursue his goals with focus, effort, and flexibility…

**JOHNSON**: “*Just because my goals did not change doesn’t mean that my process of achieving those goals will be the same. 2020 brought a lot of adjustment that I believe helped me learn how to maintain focus in the midst of adversity. It is important to have a plan of action, but it is even more important to hold that plan with an open hand.*“

Achieving your goals requires a clear target, planning, focused effort, evaluation, and adjustment. If you neglect one area, you are drastically reducing your chances of accomplishing your goals.

### Setting and Achieving Goals

Defining your goals is just the start of the process. The work begins after you have clearly stated your goals for your game. Now the hard work… **Goal getting**!

After you clearly define your goal, it’s time to plan, act, evaluate, adjust (when necessary) and repeat.

Think of each practice day as a day to strive for your goals. Set objectives each day to help you go after your goals. This step is often overlooked by athletes and is the reason most athletes don’t reach goals.

Setting and getting to your goals is an active and fluid process.

---

### Related Articles:

- [Sports Psychology And Goal Setting](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-psychology-and-goal-setting/)
- [One Strategy That Helps All Athletes While Self-Isolating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/one-strategy-that-helps-all-athletes-while-self-isolating/)
- [How Expectations Can Hurt Your Performance in Volleyball](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-expectations-can-hurt-your-performance-in-volleyball/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Boost Self-Confidence, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Goal Setting in Sports

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### [How Athletes Deal with Stress](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)

**Published:** July 30, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Coping with Stress in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/cycling-olypmic.jpg)

## How Olympians Deal with Stress

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Olympians Deal with Stress](#How_Olympians_Deal_with_Stress)
    - [Common Stressors for Athletes Include:](#Common_Stressors_for_Athletes_Include)
    - [Stress Can Hurt Athletes in Many Ways, Such as:](#Stress_Can_Hurt_Athletes_in_Many_Ways_Such_as)
    - [Holly Edmondston, Cyclist](#Holly_Edmondston_Cyclist)
    - [Dealing with the Stress of Being an Athlete](#Dealing_with_the_Stress_of_Being_an_Athlete)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Do you become so stressed out in training or before competition that you don’t enjoy competing and perform horribly? Do you feel you cannot do anything about your stress levels or believe that you are just a nervous athlete?

**Stress has many sources for athletes.** Some stress comes from the challenges in sport itself, and other stressors come from your personal life.

### **Common Stressors for Athletes Include:**

- Personal relationships
- Injuries
- Interruption of training regimen
- Bulling
- Playing in adverse conditions
- Feeling expectations from others
- Perfectionism
- Critical game situations
- Opponents and team dynamics
- Lack of playing time

### **Stress Can Hurt Athletes in Many Ways, Such as:**

- Slow down recovery from training and competing
- Deplete energy sources more quickly
- Inhibit fluidity of movement
- Build tension within muscles
- Hamper your ability to focus in a competition
- Create excessive worry
- Slow reaction times
- Interfere with decision-making
- Increase the chance of acute and overuse injuries

If you do not have a plan to manage stressors, your physical and mental well-being will be at risk, as well as top-level performance.

### Holly Edmondston, Cyclist

Holly Edmondston, a New Zealand cyclist and 2020 Olympian, has worked through a lot of stress to achieve her Olympic dream.

The 24-year-old Edmondston’s Olympic journey has been challenging. Edmondston overcame a bad back injury in 2017, surgery in 2019, and the postponement of the 2020 Olympics due to the worldwide pandemic.

**EDMONDSTON**: *“Stress is normal in sport. I was quite stressed because of my injuries. But now, I have managed to turn them around. Mental health was quite low, and now I’m doing a lot better. Some people might not consider stress as an injury, but 90 percent of the sport is mental.”*

How was Edmondston able to **deal with all the stress** she was facing to make New Zealand’s 2020 Olympic team?

Edmondston and the New Zealand Olympic team sought the help of mental training professionals to learn how to navigate the increased pressure and stress of being Olympic athletes.

Edmondston: “We do group mental training and psychology sessions. It is important because being mentally strong is what gets you across the finish line.”

**They learn stress management strategies**. When you were born, you were not readily equipped with strategies to deal with the stressors of being an athlete. In fact, most stressors you learned to cope with as you progressed through life.

When you develop an array of **stress management and relaxation strategies,** you have more tools at your disposal and are better equipped to handle the various stressors that come your way throughout your athletic career.

### Dealing with the Stress of Being an Athlete

Knowing your **sources of stress** is a starting step to coping with it later. What are three top stressors or triggers? What signs precede these stressors? Awareness of your mental push buttons is a good starting place.

**Anticipate the stressors** you might encounter in your sport. Think about how you might cope with each stressors. Have a plan. For example, how will you cope with an injury that sidelines you for one to two weeks?

This is where are trained mental game coach can help you–manage the stress you might encounter as a natural part of playing sports.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Mental Skills to Manage Stress for Figure Skating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skills-to-manage-stress-for-figure-skating/)
- [How Stress Can Affect Sports Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)
- [Pregame Stress and Anxiety: Athletes’ Mental Roadblock to Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Stress in Sports

---

### [How to See Loses as Lessons](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-see-loses-as-lessons/)

**Published:** July 23, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Sports Psychology for Ball Players](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/team-usa-basketball.jpg)

## Learning from Defeat in Sports

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Learning from Defeat in Sports](#Learning_from_Defeat_in_Sports)
    - [Can a Lose Help You Learn?](#Can_a_Lose_Help_You_Learn)
    - [Team USA Basketball](#Team_USA_Basketball)
    - [How to Learn from Losses](#How_to_Learn_from_Losses)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you feel losses have an upside at all? Can you turn an loss into a benefit, or does a loss become a blow to your confidence?

**A loss or under performing can feel frustrating** for some athletes. An unexpected loss or an embarrassing performance can practically erase an athlete’s confidence?

Why does one event have such an overwhelming effect on confidence? It all comes down to perspective or the meaning you assign to a loss. You can interpret a **poor performance as having a lack of talent** or inability to perform in the heat of competition.

### Can a Lose Help You Learn?

Or a loss can be interpreted as feedback, “**What can I learn from this experience**? What do I need to work on in practice or do differently in competition?”

For example, if a pitcher walked nine batters in a six-inning start, he can negatively interpret his performance as, “I can’t throw strikes anymore. I always choke when I play good hitters.”

[Or the pitcher can take a positive, productive perspective](https://www.baseballmentalgame.com/), “I am a bit tense. I will work with coach to improve my relaxation.”

Here’s another example: a hockey goaltender gave up two goals in the closing minutes of a game to lose a must-win game. The goaltender can evaluate his performance as, “I’m not good enough to be a starting goaltender.”

Or the goaltender can look for productive feedback to apply to future games, “I become really tense at the end of a game. I need to work staying relaxed and improving my focus late in games.”

Examining a performance from an objective standpoint will help stabilize your confidence and give you an area of your game to focus on in practice. A positive perspective gives you a sense of control, “I will work on this area of my game to help me become a better athlete.”

Interpreting your performance from a positive and objective view helps you extract the lesson and apply the lesson to future performances.

### Team USA Basketball

Team USA learned several lessons after being upset by Nigeria, 90-87 in its first exhibition basketball game before the Olympics.

The loss was shocking, especially since Team USA has won 54 of their last 56 exhibition games before this loss.

Team USA started five All-NBA players but had difficulty functioning as a unit, executing throughout the game, and making baskets down the stretch.

After the game, Team USA coach Gregg Popovich **put the game in perspective** and saw an opportunity for the team to grow.

**POPOVICH**: “I don’t think anyone should act, nor will we act, like this is the end of the world… In a way, I’m kind of glad it happened. It means nothing if we don’t learn from it. It could be the most important thing in this tournament for us. To learn lessons from this.”

**Losses can only make you feel devastated, defeated, and discouraged** if you make negative judgments about yourself as an athlete.

When you evaluate your performance objectively, you can utilize the experience to become a better athlete and perform at a higher level in future competitions.

### How to Learn from Losses

Examine your performance through an objective lens and ask yourself the following three questions:

1\. What can I learn from this performance?
2\. What can I work on in practice to become better this week?
3\. How will I apply this lesson to future performances?

This process of evaluation helps you learn and grow as an athlete instead of stay stuck in a cycle of self-pitty.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Athletes Bounce Back From Defeat](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-bounce-back-from-defeat/)
- [Do You Beat Yourself Up and Lose Confidence After Defeat?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-beat-yourself-up-and-lose-confidence-after-defeat/)
- [How to React to a Poor Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-react-to-a-poor-performance/)

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Fearless Performances, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Learning from Losses, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Self-Intimidation for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)

**Published:** July 15, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/athletic-success.jpg)

## Why Athletes Feel Intimidated

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Why Athletes Feel Intimidated](#Why_Athletes_Feel_Intimidated)
    - [Here are the most common ways you might feel intimidated…](#Here_are_the_most_common_ways_you_might_feel_intimidated%E2%80%A6)
    - [The focus you choose affects three things:](#The_focus_you_choose_affects_three_things)
    - [Overcoming Self-Intimidation:](#Overcoming_Self-Intimidation)
    - [Related Articles](#Related_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you or your athletes **feel intimidated when competing agains**t top competition? Or do you see it as a challenge to embrace?

Against top-tier competitors, are you able to rise to the occasion or do you question your ability to perform well?

I’ve worked with many athletes over the years that focus too much on the competition and thus become self-intimidated. Yes, playing against a rival or a high ranked opponent can be stressful, but doesn’t have to be!

Nerves can be elevated when playing tough competition because you are left alone with your thoughts and play out worst case scenarios in your mind.

One athlete in our survey requested help with the issue or difficulty of playing against tough competition:

> “How do I play without feeling intimidated or self-conscious around top competitors?”

### Here are the most common ways you might feel intimidated…

- You compare your skills to your competitors’ skills and feel inferior.
- You fear you might embarrass yourself is you lose badly to the competition.
- You build up the competition in your mind and think, “I have no chance.”
- You focus too much on the wins and record of your opponents and feel you can never stack up.

Sound familiar?

**Feeling intimidated or self-conscious can happen at all levels of sports–even the pros!**

But no one is trying to intimidate you. You do it all on your own by focusing on the talents and record of your competitors.

It is not possible to focus on two different things at the same time, such as your opponent and your game. Focus is a one-or-the-other prospect.

### The focus you choose affects three things:

1. How you feel
2. What you think
3. And thus how well you perform

Focusing on a competitor who is an idol will create feelings of anxiety, intimidation and fear. You can’t perform your best when you are focused on opponents’ strengths and records.

### Overcoming Self-Intimidation:

How will you ever beat someone you idolize if you think you can’t? You first have to open the door by thinking anything is possible in sports.

Don’t build up opponents in your mind to the expense of your confidence! Be sure not to compare your skills, experience, or record to your opponent’s. This is a sure way to feel intimidated and lose confidence.

Instead focus on your unique talents. What strengths do you bring to the game? What advantages do you have as an athlete?

It might also help to think about a simple concept I teach my athletes: think “nameless and numberless.” Don’t attach a name or number to your opponents. Instead, think that they are human too and put on their equipment one leg at a time–just like you!

Embrace the challenge of testing your skills against quality competition!

---

### Related Articles

- [How to Overcome Feelings of Intimidation in Golf](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-feelings-of-intimidation-in-golf/)
- [How to Overcome Intimidation in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-intimidation-in-sports/)
- [Golf Podcast: Coping with Intimidation and Added Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-intimidation-and-added-pressure/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness, MGCP certification, Sports Psychology Certification

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Helping Athletes Manage High Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-athletes-manage-high-expectations/)

**Published:** September 13, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How Expectations Hurt Confidence

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Expectations Hurt Confidence](#How_Expectations_Hurt_Confidence)
    - [Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent](#Resources_for_Athletes_Coach_and_Sports_Parent)
    - [Boost Your Confidence for Sports](#Boost_Your_Confidence_for_Sports)

In this **sports psychology video**, Dr. Cohn helps athletes improve their **mental game for sports.** Learn how to get your mindset right when you compete so you can perform your best. In this podcast, you learn about how athletes place expectations on themselves and also feel them from parents and others. Dr. Cohn answers a question from an athlete who is struggling with expectations from others.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a **master mental game** coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes. Watch the video on how to **[handle high expectations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hc6q5OWxf3Y)** below…

Many athletes maintain high expectations about their performance. And when they fail to reach their high expectations, they can doubt or get frustrated. Most often, **high expectations lead to self-sabotage for athletes.**

---

### Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent

- Learn about [Mental Game Coaching For Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)
- Download our a FREE [Mental Toughness Report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/)
- Read our [Sports Psychology Articles](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/)
- Check out our [Sports Psychology Audio Programs](https://shop.peaksports.com/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Boost Your Confidence for Sports

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

Can you experience yourself right now walking out onto the court, diamond, course, or playing field with **complete conviction** in your ability **and unwavering confidence** beaming like a bright light? Imagine feeling dominant, positive with only confident thoughts, and ready to take control of the game.

You can learn how to **think like a champion** and have ultimate self-confidence just like the pros. It’s not hard or impossible to achieve – I help athletes reach their goals every day and you, too, can learn the same strategies I teach to my students who pay me well over $1000 per day for personal coaching.

Do you prefer **confident and in control** or **doubt and helplessness**? I thought so. You can **empower yourself to take action** and I have the mental strategies **to help unlock your confidence** and instill confidence-enhancing thoughts – so you can be in control with greater levels of confidence – consistently.

[READ MORE NOW](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Video

---

### [Parents: When Athletes Want to Quit Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/parents-athletes-quitting-sports/)

**Published:** September 13, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

##  The Sports Psychology Podcast 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

![Sports Psychology Podcast](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/sports-psychology-podcast150.jpg)

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps parents understand when their athletes should quit sports. Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode:

*JESSICA: My son was so excited for football and ready to play. But he already wants to quit…badly, The coaches are pretty hard on them. I don’t know what to do. I don’t want him to quit in the face of challenges, but he’s not happy. It hasn’t been that long. What do you should I do?*

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Why Athletes Quit Sports: Good and Not Good Reasons – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-athletes-quit-sports-good-and-not-reasons/)
- [Parents: Helping Young Athlete Who Wants to Quit](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/parents-helping-young-athlete-who-wants-to-quit/)
- [Parents: When Athletes Want to Quit Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/parents-athletes-quitting-sports/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Helping Young Golfers Overcome Bad Shots](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-young-golfers-overcome-bad-shots/)

**Published:** September 14, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Help Young Golfers Move on After Mistakes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Help Young Golfers Move on After Mistakes](#How_to_Help_Young_Golfers_Move_on_After_Mistakes)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do you have a young golfer who tends to check out quickly?

In this week’s **golf psychology session**, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from Elvin who had this to say about his daughter’s game:

*“My daughter is 12 years old and has played golf since she was 7. When she makes a mistake with the first hit it derails her for at least the first two holes… I would like some tips on how I can help her not worry about the early bad shots before her round gets out of hand.”*

**COHN:** This is super common with young golfers and young athletes alike, is they tend to have very high expectations for their performance. Sometimes the acting out is to show you that she’s actually better than that. It’s okay for her to hit a bad shot or have a bad hole, for example, early in the round, you need to impress upon her that she’s not going to play perfectly. It’s early in the round a lot of great opportunities to come…

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about helping young golfers cope with their bad shots.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Let Go of Bad Shots And Stay Composed](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-let-go-of-bad-shots-and-stay-composed/)
- [How Do You React To Bad Shots?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/keep-things-in-perspective/)
- [Use A Preshot And Post-shot Routine To Overcome Bad Shots](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/use-a-preshot-and-post-shot-routine-to-overcome-bad-shots/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Golf Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychologist, Young Golfers

---

### [Guiding Young and Intense Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/guiding-young-and-intense-athletes/)

**Published:** September 27, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

##  The Sports Psychology Podcast 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

![Sports Psychology Podcast](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/sports-psychology-podcast150.jpg)

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps parents understand proper guidance for a young and intense athlete in the right manner. Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode:

*Missy: I have a 13-year-old daughter, Soccer is her passion. She is super motivated, dedicated, and passionate. How to make sure I am guiding this intense young athlete in the right manner… she’s so driven and does this all on her own but I’m afraid of doing her a disservice by not knowing how to navigate the complex world of club sports and give her any competitive edge we can. Or do we, as parents, just sit back and let things unfold as they will. Or perhaps as parents, there is nothing we can really do, it’s something she needs to figure out?*

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Keep Calm after a Poor Officiating Call](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-calm-after-a-poor-officiating-call/)
- [Cleveland Cavilers Mindset For Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/cleveland-cavilers-mindset-for-playoffs/)
- [Performing Well During Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-during-pressure-moments/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Intense Player, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [What Athletes Must Do During Post Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-athletes-must-do-during-post-games/)

**Published:** October 4, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

##  The Sports Psychology Podcast 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

![Sports Psychology Podcast](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/sports-psychology-podcast150.jpg)

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps an athlete on knowing what to do in post games to improve confidence. Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode:

*JACK: Do you have any tips or a program for “Post game (win or lost) assessment? How to evaluate your performance. I’m trying to identify what good parts and the bad parts of my game that needs to improve.*

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Tennis Mind Games: Early US Open Exits – Is This Mental or Physical?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tennis-mind-games-early-us-open-exits-is-this-mental-or-physical/)
- [Post Game Assessment to Improve Your Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/post-game-assessment-to-improve-your-performance/)
- [How to Stay Composed When You Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Sports Confidence, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Improve Your Decision Making when Competing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improve-your-decision-making-when-competing/)

**Published:** October 18, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

##  The Sports Psychology Podcast 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

![Sports Psychology Podcast](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/sports-psychology-podcast150.jpg)

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps parents understand when their athletes should quit sports. Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode:

*JESSICA: My son was so excited for football and ready to play. But he already wants to quit…badly, The coaches are pretty hard on them. I don’t know what to do. I don’t want him to quit in the face of challenges, but he’s not happy. It hasn’t been that long. What do you should I do?*

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Improve Your Decision Making When Competing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improve-your-decision-making-when-competing-2/)
- [Mental Well-Being in Athletics](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-well-being-in-athletics/)
- [Be Decisive to Improve Sports Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/be-decisive-to-improve-sports-performance/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Coach: Support Your Athlete's Mental Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coach-support-your-athletes-mental-game/)

**Published:** November 1, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

##  The Sports Psychology Podcast 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent](#Resources_for_Athletes_Coach_and_Sports_Parent)
    - [Boost Your Self-Confidence And Focus With Expert Mental Game Coaching!](#Boost_Your_Self-Confidence_And_Focus_With_Expert_Mental_Game_Coaching)
        - [What are our mental coaching students saying?](#What_are_our_mental_coaching_students_saying)

![Sports Psychology Podcast](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/sports-psychology-podcast150.jpg)

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn explains how to coaches can better support athlete’s mental game. Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode:

LEO: *I’m now a coach but if I had the support of a mental coach while I was a player…who knows where I would be. I’m interested in learning the mental approach in sport so if there is some seminars or literature that you recommend, please let me know.*

---

### Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent

- Learn about [Mental Game Coaching For Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)
- Download our a FREE [Mental Toughness Report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/)
- Read our [Sports Psychology Articles](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/)
- Check out our [Sports Psychology Audio Programs](https://shop.peaksports.com/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Boost Your Self-Confidence And Focus With Expert Mental Game Coaching!

![Sports Psychology for Motocross](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/cohn-starling.jpg)

If you’re a top performer during practice but find yourself under-performing in competition, the most likely culprit holding you back is your mental game. In fact, many athletes struggle with the same problem….

Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal mental game coaching](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/).

Meet with us via Zoom, Phone, FaceTime or GoTo Meeting. With today’s video technology, we are able to connect with athletes and coaches all over the globe.

Mental toughness coaching helps serious athletes like you to uncover the beliefs and attitudes that keep you from performing to your potential. You’ll learn mental game strategies to perform at your peak more often, overcoming performance plateaus and lack of consistency

Call us toll free at **888-742-7225** or [contact us](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/) for more information about the different coaching programs we offer!

[GET DETAILS NOW](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

---

#### What are our mental coaching students saying?

*“WOW!!! What a week I had. I was able to perform with a confidence that allowed my style to shine through–no more entering the arena with that “deer in the headlights” look or feeling. I stopped evaluating myself while I was performing, and I actually left the arena after my patterns feeling like I had experienced a lot of fun. Thank you so much.”* **~Julia Dreyer, National Champion Equestrian**

*“After your session, Mason had a game. He had the best game so far! He hustled, shot, no goals but two assists but he was cool with it because his focus was on shooting and not scoring (finally), defended well with his hands – finally put it all together. It was fun to watch and you could tell he felt really good about it.”*
**~Kelly, Lacrosse mom**

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

 [ ![social network 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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Coaching in Sports, Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [The Right Reasons for Every Athlete to Stay in Their Game](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-right-reasons-for-every-athlete-to-stay-in-their-game/)

**Published:** November 15, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

##  The Sports Psychology Podcast 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

![Sports Psychology Podcast](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/sports-psychology-podcast150.jpg)

In this **sports psychology podcast**, Dr. Cohn helps parents understand when their athletes should quit sports. Here is the question, Dr. Cohn answers in this episode:

BETH: *I am struggling to figure out if I should quit basketball. I get stressed before every game and practice. I find myself making excuses not to go. This is the only sport I play, and therefore why I find myself attached. My stomach drops every time I think about playing and my mind thinks of the worst. Everything is just too intense. The two-hour practices and even games over the summer, and 11 months straight of playing. Can I overcome these feelings?*

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Why Athletes Quit Sports: Good and Not Good Reasons – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-athletes-quit-sports-good-and-not-reasons/)
- [Helping Kids Stay in Sports – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-kids-stay-in-sports/)
- [Embrace Pressure in Overtime Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embrace-pressure-in-overtime-games/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [When Golf Round Doesn't Go Your Way](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-golf-round-doesnt-go-your-way/)

**Published:** September 20, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Maintaining Your Level of Positivity Throughout the Game

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Maintaining Your Level of Positivity Throughout the Game](#Maintaining_Your_Level_of_Positivity_Throughout_the_Game)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do you ever wonder how athletes maintain their level of positivity even if things are not what they are expecting them to be?

In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from John who had this to say about his game:

*“I start off being very positive looking forward to the round. I warm up and start to play the tournament, and, on each shot, I anticipated to have a great result–but don’t. Then doubt creeps in on the next shot and the next hole sometimes. I think: Why am I out here being so negative when I was looking so forward to the round.”*

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say abou**t **maintaining a positive outlook** **even if early parts of the game doesn’t go your way.**

 **COHN:** The key to golf is what I call stable confidence, and not allowing one or two shots to derail you. Unfortunately, a lot of the golfers that I work with, they tend to doubt and have fragile confidence. key to golf is what I call stable confidence, and not allowing one or two shots to derail you. Unfortunately, a lot of the golfers that I work with, they tend to doubt and have fragile confidence. Just one shot can rock their confidence, or maybe a bogey or two bogeys in a row can rock their confidence.

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Positive or Negative Self-Talk. Which One Do You Use?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/positive-self-talk/)
- [Sports Insights: 7 Secrets to Positive Pregame Mental Preparation](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/7-secrets-to-positive-pregame-mental-preparation/)
- [Golf Podcast: Positive Celebrations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/golf-podcast-postive-celebrations/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Golf Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Golf Psychology Podcast

---

### [Changing Your Swing in the Middle of the Game?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/changing-your-swing-in-the-middle-of-the-game/)

**Published:** October 4, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to be Confident with Your Golf Swing

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to be Confident with Your Golf Swing](#How_to_be_Confident_with_Your_Golf_Swing)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do you ever doubt your swing and change it immediately when you hit a bad shot while you are already in the middle game, playing for the score?

In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from Rick who had this to say about his game:

*“If hit a bad shot, I try to change swing immediately. I get distracted easily by focusing on too many swing thoughts. How do I stop my mind from spinning after bad shot?”*

**COHN:** The Issue is, you are not trusting the swing you have that day. You have to understand that when you start manipulating your swing, when you start searching, when you start changing your swing, you’re no longer playing golf, you are playing “golf swing”… When you step on the golf course your swing is what it is…

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about focusing more on playing the golf course.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Execute Your Range Swing to the Golf Course](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/execute-your-range-swing-to-the-golf-course/)
- [Trusting Swing Changes on The Course – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/trusting-swing-changes-on-the-course/)
- [Jordan Speith’s Mindset For Swing Changes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/jordan-speiths-mindset-for-swing-changes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Golf Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychology Podcast, Golf Swing

---

### [Proper Mindset for the Game, To Succeed](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/proper-mindset-for-the-game-to-succeed/)

**Published:** October 18, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How Your Game Intensity Isn’t a Bad Thing 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Your Game Intensity Isn’t a Bad Thing](#How_Your_Game_Intensity_Isnt_a_Bad_Thing)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do you want to win so badly and you’re out there tripping yourself on the golf course?

In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from Maggie who had this to say about his game:

*“I have too much intensity while playing because I want to succeed too much. And want to win badly. Then, when I don’t play well, I have destructive self-talk, lack of trust in technique, tightening up while playing. How do I deal with this?”*

**COHN:** High level of intensity isn’t a bad thing…Higher intensity leads to a higher level of focus. Maybe your are trying to play perfectly out there or you care so badly about what others think about your game…Here is an exercise I would recommend. Sit down and think about what are those things you say to yourself when your are not playing well? What would a bestfriend tell you?

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about playing positively and not dwelling on the mistakes you** **committed during the game.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [Mindset Tips for Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-playoffs/)
- [Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Golf Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Golf Psychology Podcast

---

### [Starting Your Golf Round with a Calm Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/starting-your-golf-round-with-a-calm-mindset/)

**Published:** November 1, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Find Confidence and Focus on Your Game

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Find Confidence and Focus on Your Game](#How_to_Find_Confidence_and_Focus_on_Your_Game)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do you ever wonder how athletes maintain their level of positivity even if things are not what they are expecting them to be?

In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from Dan who had this to say about his game:

*“I feel nervous before the round and on the first 3 holes because I want to play well. But then I start overthinking… When I start out nervous, it’s hard to get my composure back during the round. How do I start the round with a calm mindset?”*

 **COHN:** Dan, great question, I want to differentiate two different mindsets for you. One is what I call, paying with pre-game jitters or pre-round jitters. The other is… You’re out there worried about something, worried about hitting the target score, worrying about what your playing partners think…you have to address that fear.

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about helping golfers focused on their game than that of fear and worries.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-under-pressure-with-confidence/)[How To Stay Calm and Composed in Competition – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-calm-and-composed-in-competition/)
- [How J.L. Lewis Never Gave Up His Dream in Golf](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/persistence-in-golf/)
- [How To Focus On The Process Instead Of Outcome In Golf](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-focus-on-the-process-instead-of-outcome-in-golf/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychology Podcast, Mental Game of Golf

---

### [When Your Opponents Intimidate You](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-your-opponents-intimidate-you/)

**Published:** December 6, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Help Golfers Focus on their Game and Beating the Golf 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Help Golfers Focus on their Game and Beating the Golf](#How_to_Help_Golfers_Focus_on_their_Game_and_Beating_the_Golf)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do you allow your opponents or your playing partners to get in your head and affect your mindset?

In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from Sarah who had this to say about his game:

*“I allow my opponent get into my head. I focus too much on what they are shooting and what they think of my game. I’m just not playing my own game. How can I improve my focus on the golf course?”*

**COHN:** I would say you’re probably making comparisons to how your performing along how your playing partners are doing. It is very common for golfers to be concern about embarrassing themselves… The solution is simple but very had to apply…

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about focusing on your game and the things that matters the most for the game.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Why Athletes Become Intimidated – Peaksports Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-athletes-become-intimidated-peaksports-video/)
- [Do You or Your Athletes Feel Intimidated About the Competition?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-athletes-ever-feel-intimidated-about-the-level-of-your-competition/)
- [Athletes Who Intimidate Themselves Before Competing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-intimidate-themselves-before-competing/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Golf Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychologist, Golf Psychology, Mindset in Golf

---

### [Execute Your Range Swing to the Golf Course](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/execute-your-range-swing-to-the-golf-course/)

**Published:** December 20, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Simplify Your Thoughts from Pre-round Warm-up to Finish

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Simplify Your Thoughts from Pre-round Warm-up to Finish](#Simplify_Your_Thoughts_from_Pre-round_Warm-up_to_Finish)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do you have trouble taking your pre-round warm-up to the golf course and get nervous? In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from Zack who had this to say about his game:

*“I get nervous and can’t take preround practice to the first tee. I have trouble swinging freely on the course–like I do on the range. And then I have very tentative shots. What’s going on with me?”*

**COHN:** I’m gonna start saying, its not a pre-round practice, I think a lot of golfers get that wrong. It’s a pre-round warm-up. I don’t want you practicing your golf swing in your warm-up… You have to understand what is the ultimate fear that’s causing you nervous at the start of the round…

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about addressing players fear and building self trust.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Simplify Your Golf Swing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/2301/)
- [Golf Podcast: Are You Too Mechanical With Your Golf Swing?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/golf-podcast-are-you-too-mechanical-with-your-golf-swing/)
- [Tips For Focusing When Playing 2-3 Strokes Down](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focusing-tips-when-playing-down/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Golf Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Golf Psychology Podcast

---

### [Visualizing and Assessing Your Shots Properly](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/visualizing-and-assessing-your-shots-properly/)

**Published:** January 3, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## What to do To Properly Visualize Your Shot

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [What to do To Properly Visualize Your Shot](#What_to_do_To_Properly_Visualize_Your_Shot)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do you visualize your shots before you hit them but then freak out when a shot doesn’t come off accordingly?

In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from Juan who had this to say about his game:

*“I’ve been told to visualize my shots during my pre-shot routine. But when I visualize a shot and I don’t pull the shot off that I just visualized, I start to get disappointed and question why. Should I visualize a good shot every time?”*

**COHN:** This is super common with young golfers and young athletes alike, is they tend to have very high expectations for their performance. Sometimes the acting out is to show you that she’s actually better than that. It’s okay for her to hit a bad shot or have a bad hole, for example, early in the round, you need to impress upon her that she’s not going to play perfectly. It’s early in the round a lot of great opportunities to come…

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about** **visualizing your shots but maintaining proper composure even after the shot was not how you visualized it.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Your Learning Style Can Help You Visualize](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-your-learning-style-can-help-you-visualize/)
- [How Elite Athletes Use Visualization ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-use-visualization/)
- [How Visualization Helps Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Golf Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Golf Psychology Podcast

---

### [Play Golf Beyond Your Comfort Zone](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/play-golf-beyond-your-comfort-zone/)

**Published:** January 17, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Consider Game Score but not Think About it all the Time

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Consider Game Score but not Think About it all the Time](#Consider_Game_Score_but_not_Think_About_it_all_the_Time)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

Do have trouble finishing off a good round because you’re focusing too much on the score?

In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, Dr. Cohn, responds to a question from Chris who had this to say about his game:

*“What do you do in a mental training session with golfers? And what things do you talk about?”*

**COHN:** Chris great question, golfers by enlarge are obsessed with score and focus too much on the score, they write it down every hole….This issue is really about having a comfort zone…

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about playing beyond your comfort zone while focusing on the things that really matters while your in the middle of the golf rounds.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Do You Perform With A Comfort Zone In Sports?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-perform-with-a-comfort-zone-in-sports/)
- [How to Play Beyond Your Comfort Zone in Golf – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/ask-doc-how-to-play-beyond-your-comfort-zone-in-golf/)
- [Golf Podcast: How to Play Beyond Your Comfort Zone](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/golf-psych-podcast-how-to-play-beyond-your-comfort-zone/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Golf Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Golf Psychology Podcast

---

### [How Visualization Helps Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-athletes/)

**Published:** September 21, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Volleyball psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/volleyball-mental-game.jpg)

## The Power of Visualization for Athletes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Power of Visualization for Athletes](#The_Power_of_Visualization_for_Athletes)
    - [Visualize only successful outcomes…](#Visualize_only_successful_outcomes%E2%80%A6)
    - [Visualization And Peak Performance](#Visualization_And_Peak_Performance)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Do you use visualization or imagery with your training regimen? Most athletes do not visualize or might only visualize before important competitions.

Visualization is the process of mentally rehearsing a scene in your mind to learn skills or enhance performance and consistency.

Interestingly, an overwhelming number of Olympic athletes visualize daily and credit visualization as a significant contributor to their successes.

Why do some athletes avoid visualization when elite athletes take advantage of visualization to take their performance to the next level? Athletes who have doubts about visualization ask the following three questions:

1\. **Does visualization work?** – Absolutely! Many athletes around the globe use visualization to learn new skills, deal with pain, improve their focus, manage competitive emotions, feel comfortable in new competitive environments, overcome adversity, maintain poise, and foster peak performance.

2\. **How does visualization work?** – When you intentionally create images in your mind, you form muscle memory facilitating the replication of those images in practices or competitions. When you successfully visualize positive outcomes, you lessen the anxiety when performing those skills in physical competitions.

3\. **How do I start visualizing**? – Start by getting relaxed with deep breathing or meditation. Visualization is most effective when you start with a relaxed mind and body. You may want to start by writing out a script to follow to avoid missing out on any details. You can record your own script as a guided imagery program.

### Visualize only successful outcomes…

USA volleyball players Alix Klineman and April Ross won the gold medal in beach volleyball at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Klineman Ross became only the second U.S. women’s duo in history to win an Olympic gold medal in beach volleyball.

When asked how she pumps up and prepares for a game, Klineman pointed to visualization as a significant component.

**KLINEMAN**: *“I do some visualization, which has been really powerful. I visualize myself in my body, so instead of looking at myself from another perspective, I see myself on the court, going through different skills and doing them really well. It’s like this positive reinforcement of knowing what it feels like, looks like, and how to execute it at a really high level… There’s a really powerful connection between body and mind, which I think a lot of people don’t realize.”*

Visualization or mental rehearsal is a powerful mental tool to raise the level of your game. When you use mental rehearsal with your physical training, you will improve consistency, you mental game, and take your game to a new level.

If Olympians use visualization to achieve greater results, you can also raise your game by adding visualization to your daily training schedule.

### Visualization And Peak Performance

To improve your visualization skills, you must be patient with the process. Most athletes give up on visualization too quickly because they don’t see immediate results or find it challenging to create vivid images in their minds.

And remember that visualization is not always about visual images. You might be more feel-oriented and want to feel your performance instead. Most athletes use a combination of modalities to mentally rehearse their performance.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game: 

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)[Improve Pregame Mental Preparation](https://www.peaksports.com/the-relaxed-athlete-cd-program/ "https://www.peaksports.com/the-relaxed-athlete-cd-program/")
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[Visualization Can Give You a Mental Edge](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/visualization-can-give-you-a-mental-edge/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)[How Routines Help You Get into the Flow](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-routines-help-you-get-into-the-flow/)

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Visualization for Athletes, Visualization in Sports

---

### [What’s the Best Mindset for Playoffs?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-your-playoff-mindset/)

**Published:** September 28, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Playoff Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Playoffs-mindset.jpg)

## Perform Your Best in Playoffs

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Perform Your Best in Playoffs](#Perform_Your_Best_in_Playoffs)
    - [Still, confusion exists around the term “playoff mindset.”](#Still_confusion_exists_around_the_term_%E2%80%9Cplayoff_mindset%E2%80%9D)
    - [Getting the Playoff Mentality](#Getting_the_Playoff_Mentality)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Does a playoff mindset mean athletes play at a higher level in post-season competition?

When you think of a playoff mindset, you probably think of Kobe Bryant’s ability to hit a winning shot in the playoffs… or Tom Brady and his stellar play in the Super Bowl… or a lights-out World Series closer like former-Yankee Mariano Rivera.

The playoff mentality has been characterized as **raising your game to a new level** or playing lights out in the post-season. This implies that those with a playoff mentality play better in playoff games than they perform in the regular season.

For example, a softball player who has a playoff mentality is “expected” to hit higher than their regular season batting average. A hockey goalie with a playoff mentality is “expected” to allow fewer goals in a playoff game than their regular-season goals-against average.

When you feel you need or are expected to perform at a higher level in the playoffs, you put more pressure on yourself. The added pressure will lead to increased anxiety.

You might will think, “I have to play better, or I will lose, fail or be embarrassed.” These thoughts, feelings, and mental and physiological stress responses lead to under performing or, even worse, choking.

### Still, confusion exists around the term “playoff mindset.”

As the Chicago White Sox head into the 2021 playoffs, White Sox bench coach Miguel Cairo discussed the team’s mentality and approach to each game.

**CAIRO**: *“You try to play every game like it’s the last game you are going to play. You want to beat anyone that is in your way. It’s like every game is a playoff game from now on. You can get your mindset on what you want to do when October starts.”*

Shouldn’t every competition have the same importance? Making the game “bigger” than it is becomes added pressure.

To play consistently well during the season, you should focus on preparing intently each day, competition, or task at hand… And to succeed in the playoffs, you should be focused on preparing each day, competition, or task intently at hand.

**CAIRO**: *“You don’t want to think ahead, but the way you play the game, the way your mindset is, it’s like a playoff atmosphere, playoff mentality. You still have to do the little things to win games: Catch the ball, hit the ball. Just keep playing baseball.”*

Consistent mental and physical preparation and focusing on the little things were why Kobe Bryant, Tom Brady, and Mariano Rivera were consistent performers.

Playing consistently near your peak requires the same mental and physical preparation for EVERY game, whether it is the regular season or post-season.

### Getting the Playoff Mentality

**A playoff mentality is not something you “have.” A playoff mentality is something you work to achieve…**

Building a playoff mentality starts with identifying the characteristics of peak performance or how you want to compete when the stakes are high.

Next, how would you train if every game in the playoffs could be your last? Would you up your intensity? Would you want to enter the game with high confidence? Would you want to embrace the challenge of end-of-season games?

One key is to be consistent in preparation for practices, preseason, regular season, and post-season.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Mindset Tips for Playoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-playoffs/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Sport Psychology for Athletes, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How Friendly Competitions Helps Boost Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-friendly-competitions-helps-boost-performance/)

**Published:** October 26, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![basketball mental game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/basketball-mental-game-1.jpg)

## Pushing Yourself to Perform the Best

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Pushing Yourself to Perform the Best](#Pushing_Yourself_to_Perform_the_Best)
    - [Friendly competition is healthy…](#Friendly_competition_is_healthy%E2%80%A6)
    - [Embracing Friendly Competition:](#Embracing_Friendly_Competition)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Fearless Athlete](#The_Fearless_Athlete)

What is your mindset when you practice or train? Do you look for ways to compete with your teammates, or do you shy away from competing?

### Friendly competition is healthy…

Too many athletes are afraid to compete against their teammates. These athletes feel they are not as good as their teammates or are fearful of being embarrassed.

For example, a basketball player with a cautious mindset may not want to guard a top scorer during drills because she is worried about being judged negatively.

She fears being faked out and looking foolish. Instead of playing aggressively, she plays cautious, tight, and flat-footed. As a result, she gives up several easy drives to the basket.

The cautious mindset views friendly competition as an opportunity to fail in front of the entire team.

Alternately, a player with a competitive mindset views guarding a top offensive teammate as an opportunity to show off their skills. If this player is beaten off the dribble, she learns from the mistake and feels better prepared for the next drill.

Let’s examine a second example, two midfielders on the same soccer team are fighting for playing time. The one player has a competitive mindset and takes calculated risks on the field.

In scrimmages, he tries to push the ball downfield or make the occasional difficult pass. Meanwhile, the soccer player with a cautious mindset plays cautiously and tries not to make mistakes.

Friendly competition is a characteristic of successful teams and builds team cohesion. When you compete against your teammates, not only do you get better, everyone around you improves as well.

The United States Women’s National Team has been one of the top soccer teams in the world for over a decade.

Midfielder Rose Lavelle attributes the team’s success to the culture of friendly competition.

**LAVELLE**:*“Hopefully we’ll be seeing new faces in camp because I think it’s always good to bring in some players who can push everyone here and push for spots. That’s what’s made this team so great and successful.”*

Sauerbrunn, former captain of the USWNT, defined friendly competition as the balance between accepting your teammates and competing against them in practice.

**SAUERBRUNN**:*“It’s like, ‘Welcome, we’re here for you if you need anything. But when we get on the field, I’m gonna do my best to basically not allow you to have a good day.'”*

Friendly competition serves two primary purposes: (1) competing against your teammates brings all team members to a higher level, and (2) prevents complacency.

**Friendly competition makes good teams great!**

### Embracing Friendly Competition:

You want to welcome friendly competition. Friendly competition is not designed to make you look or feel bad. The goal of friendly competition is to motivate you to work hard and improve your game.

As you improve your game, you become a greater asset to your team. You also are better able to push your teammates even further.

Look forward to practice and training, but most of all, look forward to challenging your teammates to work harder and smarter.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Win Close Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-win-close-competitions/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[How to Manage the Toughest Moments of Elite Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-manage-the-toughest-moments-of-elite-competitions/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[How to Manage Anxiety in Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-manage-anxiety-in-competitions/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Fearless Athlete 

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

For the last two decades, I’ve been working with athletes and helping them optimize their physical ability by teaching them the secrets of top performing athletes. Now, you too can **learn how to regain that child-like fearless attitude.**

**Mental toughness is what separates the winner** from the loser in any competition. Champion athletes train hard in practice, perform without fear in competition, and trust their skills in crunch-time.

**The Fearless Athlete program** is ideal for any athlete that wants to overcome fear of failure and uncover inhibiting perfectionistic traits; or for any coach or parent who wants to teach athletes to perform with trust and freedom in competition.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

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### [How Athletes Can Manage Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-manage-expectations/)

**Published:** November 1, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Athletes Who Are Self-Critical](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Athletes-Who-Are-Self-Critical.jpg)

## Performing with an Optimistic Mindset

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Performing with an Optimistic Mindset](#Performing_with_an_Optimistic_Mindset)
    - [Re-Evaluating your Standards:](#Re-Evaluating_your_Standards)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you set high standards for your performance? Do you believe that setting the bar extremely high leads to performing your best?

Let’s look at this question in reverse. If your standards are low, will you perform at a high level?

Of course not. Low standards will lead to low effort. If you have low standards, you will not put in the work to improve your game. Thus, if you have low standards, you will under perform.

Now, let’s look at the opposite. Do you think having excessively high standards leads to peak performance? Is never being satisfied the key to motivating yourself to greater heights?

Interestingly, excessively high standards or expectations lead to frustration and under performance.

Never being satisfied or happy with your performance is a characteristic of perfectionism. Perfectionism is an unattainable ideal that leads to negative emotions and less confidence.

If you have excessively high standards or demand perfection, you will always be frustrated with your level of performance.

No matter if you win or lose, you will point out every mistake. When you nitpick every detail of your performance, you will become frustrated. Dwelling on all your faults and mistakes leads to low confidence and frustration.

Let’s clarify the difference between high standards and excessively high standards. Having high standards is the pursuit of improvement, not a demand for perfection.

When you have high standards, you will be more objective in your evaluation after a performance. You understand you can learn from both the positive and negative aspects of performance.

**Recognizing your strengths keeps confidence high while still maintaining motivation to work on your game.**

Let’s examine having high standards with the following example. Fran Kirby is an English professional soccer player who plays as a forward for Chelsea and England’s National Team.

Even after a game where she made three assists and led Chelsea to a victory, Kirby didn’t appear satisfied with her play.

After the game, Chelsea manager Emma Hayes commented on Kirby’s mindset and high standards.

**HAYES**: *“Fran’s standards are through the roof, so she’s always frustrated. That’s the measure of her and why she is as good as she is. She thinks there’s always room to improve.”*

Here lies the misconception about standards. Is Kirby actually frustrated, or does she believe she still can grow her game by working on a few things?

A good measuring stick to determine if your standards are excessively high is how much you judges your game during every play

If you dwell on mistakes and this causes a loss of focus in the moment, your standards are probably too high and need to be re-evaluated.

### Re-Evaluating your Standards:

If you’re critical about your performance after games, ask yourself the following questions:

Am I demanding perfection from myself? If so, why do I need to be perfect? What do mistakes say about me as an athlete or person?

Recognizing self-sabotaging expectations and replacing with small objectives can help you have more fun and be less critical.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skills-to-manage-stress-for-figure-skating/)[Se](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[lf-Intimidation for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)
- [How Stress Can Affect Sports Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)
- [Pregame Stress and Anxiety: Athletes’ Mental Roadblock to Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [Parents: Helping Young Athlete Who Wants to Quit](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/parents-helping-young-athlete-who-wants-to-quit/)

**Published:** October 19, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Have Your Athletes Lost Interest?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Have Your Athletes Lost Interest?](#Have_Your_Athletes_Lost_Interest)
    - [Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent](#Resources_for_Athletes_Coach_and_Sports_Parent)
    - [Boost Your Confidence for Sports](#Boost_Your_Confidence_for_Sports)

In this **sports psychology video**, Dr. Cohn explains how parents can help their talented athletes when they want to quit their sports and improve their **mental game for sports.** In this podcast, you learn about how athletes place expectations on themselves and also feel them from parents and others. Dr. Cohn answers a question from a parent who is wanting to help her son not to quit his love of his sports.

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a **master mental game** coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes. Watch the video on how to identify common reason why young athletes decides to quit their sports and know weather they should quit or not.

Many athletes tend not to find their happiness in playing the sport they used to love and thus affects their performance during the game. This kind of situation adds up and sometimes leads to frustrations and other mental game issues.

---

### Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent

- Learn about [Mental Game Coaching For Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)
- Download our a FREE [Mental Toughness Report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/)
- Read our [Sports Psychology Articles](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/)
- Check out our [Sports Psychology Audio Programs](https://shop.peaksports.com/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Boost Your Confidence for Sports

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

Can you experience yourself right now walking out onto the court, diamond, course, or playing field with **complete conviction** in your ability **and unwavering confidence** beaming like a bright light? Imagine feeling dominant, positive with only confident thoughts, and ready to take control of the game.

You can learn how to **think like a champion** and have ultimate self-confidence just like the pros. It’s not hard or impossible to achieve – I help athletes reach their goals every day and you, too, can learn the same strategies I teach to my students who pay me well over $1000 per day for personal coaching.

Do you prefer **confident and in control** or **doubt and helplessness**? I thought so. You can **empower yourself to take action** and I have the mental strategies **to help unlock your confidence** and instill confidence-enhancing thoughts – so you can be in control with greater levels of confidence – consistently.

[READ MORE NOW](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How Hard Work Translates to Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-hard-work-translates-to-performance/)

**Published:** June 30, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Adversity in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/12-2-SR-large.jpg)

## Duplicating Your Positive Mindset Daily

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Duplicating Your Positive Mindset Daily](#Duplicating_Your_Positive_Mindset_Daily)
    - [The “paying the price” mindset involves:](#The_%E2%80%9Cpaying_the_price%E2%80%9D_mindset_involves)
    - [Developing Consistent Work Habits](#Developing_Consistent_Work_Habits)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Have you heard the quote, “The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work.?” Legendary Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi spoke those words to relate the importance of hard work.

Lombardi followed that line by saying. *“Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you’re willing to pay the price.”*

Every athlete coach and parent knows that you need to work hard to accomplish success. However, not every athlete is willing to pay the price. Some athletes expect success without putting in the work.

“Paying the price” is a mindset that encompasses your work ethic and work habits. Many athletes have sent emails or responded to our Mental Game Surveys with a similar theme, “I work hard, but I don’t see any results.”

The “pay the price” mentality is not just about working hard sometimes. For example, at the end of a two-hour practice, your coach decides to have you and your teammates run ten wind sprints.

You are already tired. You are annoyed that your coach is making you do sprints. You think the sprints are useless. After all, you are already in good shape.

You decide just to finish practice, even though you are thinking about your plans after practice. You run the first six hard. You beat most of your teammates by a step or two.

The following two sprints, you run hard but ease into the finish. The last two, you practically jog. You think, “Who cares. Those sprints really don’t matter or affect how I perform in competition.

In this scenario, you had a mindset that “good is good enough.”

### The “paying the price” mindset involves:

- Paying the price every time – Working hard in practice from start to finish.
- Paying the price in full – Giving full effort and on every drill, scrimmage, rep, set, shot, run, or routine.
- Paying the price has a mental component – Putting in the mental work to take your game higher
- Paying the price requires paying attention to the little things – Focusing on the little things makes an overall significant impact on performance.

Paying the price has a reward; it’s called improvement and success.

The Montreal Canadiens started the 2021 season, losing the first three games. You probably think, “No big deal; there are 79 more games in the season.”

True, but it is the way they lost the second game, giving up the first seven shots of the game, several odd-man rushes, and two uncontested goals in the first 18 minutes of the game.

Montreal winger Brendan Gallagher characterized the team’s effort as lazy. “We didn’t put in the work to be the team celebrating right now, he said.”

Laziness can become a habit, and your habits impact your performance. If you want to be consistent, you must be consistent in your work habits.

### Developing Consistent Work Habits

One strategy to develop a strong work habit is to remind yourself to keep pushing during practice and training sessions–in order to reach your goals for the season.

Set objectives or each practice to improve your work habits and to also put in the work to improve your game.

Think back to the last practice your gave 100 percent effort… Can you duplicate that mindset and effort every day?

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skills-to-manage-stress-for-figure-skating/)[**Se**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[**lf-Intimidation for Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)
- [**How Stress Can Affect Sports Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)
- [**Pregame Stress and Anxiety: Athletes’ Mental Roadblock to Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Sports Confidence

---

### [Post Game Assessment to Improve Your Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/post-game-assessment-to-improve-your-performance/)

**Published:** November 1, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Handle Your Post Game Assessment

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Handle Your Post Game Assessment](#Handle_Your_Post_Game_Assessment)
    - [Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent](#Resources_for_Athletes_Coach_and_Sports_Parent)
    - [Boost Your Confidence for Sports](#Boost_Your_Confidence_for_Sports)

In this **sports psychology video**, Dr. Cohn helps an athlete on knowing what to do in post games assessment to improve confidence and performance. Dr. Cohn answers a question from an athlete who doesn’t know what to do after the game whether he wins or loses the game.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a **master mental game** coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes. Watch the video on how to identify the key ideas in using a post-game assessment as a tool to improve mental game performance.

Some athletes tend to focus on the mistakes they made after their game. These mistakes creep into their mind and affects them inside and outside the court or the game. Learn how to handle post-game evaluation and use your shortcomings as learnings and start appreciating the things that you contributed to your team.

---

### Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent

- Learn about [Mental Game Coaching For Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)
- Download our a FREE [Mental Toughness Report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/)
- Read our [Sports Psychology Articles](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/)
- Check out our [Sports Psychology Audio Programs](https://shop.peaksports.com/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Boost Your Confidence for Sports

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

Can you experience yourself right now walking out onto the court, diamond, course, or playing field with **complete conviction** in your ability **and unwavering confidence** beaming like a bright light? Imagine feeling dominant, positive with only confident thoughts, and ready to take control of the game.

You can learn how to **think like a champion** and have ultimate self-confidence just like the pros. It’s not hard or impossible to achieve – I help athletes reach their goals every day and you, too, can learn the same strategies I teach to my students who pay me well over $1000 per day for personal coaching.

Do you prefer **confident and in control** or **doubt and helplessness**? I thought so. You can **empower yourself to take action** and I have the mental strategies **to help unlock your confidence** and instill confidence-enhancing thoughts – so you can be in control with greater levels of confidence – consistently.

[LEARN MORE NOW](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)

[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Game in Sports, Mental Toughness, Sports Confidence

---

### [Staying Motivated in Your Sport](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/staying-motivated-in-your-sport/)

**Published:** November 4, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Shooter's Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/basketball-image-big.jpg)

## How to Perform at Your Best

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Perform at Your Best](#How_to_Perform_at_Your_Best)
    - [The way a player interprets an event will affect their motivation.](#The_way_a_player_interprets_an_event_will_affect_their_motivation)
    - [Keeping Motivation High](#Keeping_Motivation_High)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What motivates you to perform your best in competition? What sources of motivation give you that extra boost to push in practice and training?

Without motivation, you won’t accomplish much in your sport. Competing at a high level requires you to fuel your motivational tank continually.

It is interesting to note that motivation is personal. In other words, one athlete’s motivation is another athlete’s anxiety.

For example, an athlete may use a loss as fuel to work harder in practice, study film, and put more time in the weight room after an embarrassing defeat.

Another player may feel that he made too many mistakes during the game and fear being replaced in the starting line-up. Instead of being motivated, he may lose confidence in his ability.

### The way a player interprets an event will affect their motivation.

Here’s another example. A playoff game affects every player differently. One player might be motivated to raise their level of play. This player may feel energized and focused for the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and ability. In contrast, another player may fear making mistakes and decide to play it safe during the game.

As you can see, your motivation will affect both how you prepare and how you perform.

In the 2021 NBA Draft, Cade Cunningham was selected with the overall number one pick by the Detroit Pistons. The draft was loaded with a talented rookie class. Some players will be motivated to develop their game, while others will be afraid to compete against the best players in the world.

A player’s motivation will be the difference-maker in a player’s ability to rise to the top or have a short-lived career.

Cunningham is excited to compete against the very best and uses this challenge to fuel his motivation

**CUNNINGHAM**: *“I’m competitive. I want to be better than who I was yesterday, and, you know, whoever is up against me, but I don’t try to compare myself to any of those guys. My class is full of big-time talent. So I think it kind of motivates me more to be more of myself. I’m used to us pushing each other to be better. So seeing them guys do their thing, I mean, I’m happy for them. Now I’m excited to get my chance to do my thing.”*

As you can see from Cunningham’s quote, challenges motivate athletes. When you see opportunities as challenges, you will be motivated to put in the work to meet or beat a challenge.

### Keeping Motivation High

Create small challenges for yourself consistently in your daily training. Set small objectives each week to help you reach your long-term goals.

Challenge yourself in practice to defend against the team’s top scorer, work on your putting game, learn a new serve, develop a new gymnastics trick.

Challenge yourself to learn how to manage your emotions. Challenge yourself to gain more functional strength. Challenge yourself to eat healthier.

If you create challenges each day, week, practice, or competition, you will keep your motivational tank fueled and feel energized throughout the season.

---

### 
Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skills-to-manage-stress-for-figure-skating/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/self-intimidation-for-athletes/)[Strategies to Set and Achieve Goals](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[Have Trust in Your Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[What Separates Elite Athletes from the Rest?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mindset in Sports, Motivation in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

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### [How Athletes Respond to a Loss](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-respond-to-a-loss/)

**Published:** July 4, 2023
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Game Loss Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/losing-a-competition.jpg)

## The Mindset to Always Focus Forward

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Mindset to Always Focus Forward](#The_Mindset_to_Always_Focus_Forward)
    - [The Michigan State University football team found themselves in a similar situation.](#The_Michigan_State_University_football_team_found_themselves_in_a_similar_situation)
    - [Coping a Tough Loss](#Coping_a_Tough_Loss)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How long does a tough loss affect you? Some athletes can get over a loss quickly and shift their focus to the next competition.

Other athletes dwell on bad games or performances; “I can’t believe I choked,” “I let my team down again,” or “We should have easily won that game.”

**Dwelling on a bad game will hurt your confidence and affect how you practice, train, and play in the near future.**

Even worse, for some athletes, a tough loss or bad performance can cause them to lose sight of their goals.

For example, you and your coach set some challenging yet realistic seasonal goals in the preseason. You worked your butt off in practice, harder than you ever have in the past.

You saw some positive results early in the season and felt you were on the right path. You were focused and confident about achieving your goal. The season seemed to be unfolding as planned.

Unfortunately, at your mid season competition, you bombed. You started to question your talent, potential, and ability to achieve your goal. All the time and effort you put in seemed like a waste.

You thought, “I won’t be able to accomplish my goal now. Why even try?” You allowed one performance to shake your confidence and hurt future performances.

### The Michigan State University football team found themselves in a similar situation.

Michigan State was ranked No. 3 in the nation with an 8-0 record. In the ninth game of the 2021 season, Michigan was upset by Purdue, 40-29, potentially disrupting their hopes of making the College Playoffs.

After the game, Michigan State head coach Mel Tucker reminded his players that this was just one loss and they needed to shift their focus on the next game.

Tucker has a 24-hour rule that he invokes. After 24 hours, Tucker doesn’t let his team dwell on a past game.

**TUCKER**: *“We didn’t play well enough to win the game, but we have a lot of football ahead of us, and all our goals are still ahead of us, and so what needs to be done? What’s next? That’s what’s most important. What’s next? We have to get on the film, get the courage to understand why. We need to get those things fixed, and then we need to get ready for Maryland. And that’s the only thing there is to do.*

To accomplish your goal, you need to keep moving forward after a loss. You may have to tweak your plan, but you should always focus forward and prepare for the next competition.

### **Coping a Tough Loss**

Apply the 24-hour rule. After a competition, give yourself 24 hours to assess what happened. When that period of time expires, focus forward.

Is there something you can change or adapt mentally or physically to grow or move your game forward? After you answer that question, ask yourself what you can do to prepare for the next competition?

Always keep your focus on what is next instead of what has happened.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How Athletes Deal with Stress**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)
- [**How to See Loses as Lessons**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-see-loses-as-lessons/)
- [**How to Overcome the Fear of Negative Outcomes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![The Confident Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-4.jpg)

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Game of Golf, Mental Toughness

---

### [Improve Your Decision Making When Competing](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/improve-your-decision-making-when-competing-2/)

**Published:** November 18, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Being Decisive with Your Game Plan

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Being Decisive with Your Game Plan](#Being_Decisive_with_Your_Game_Plan)
    - [Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent](#Resources_for_Athletes_Coach_and_Sports_Parent)
    - [Boost Your Confidence for Sports](#Boost_Your_Confidence_for_Sports)

In this **sports psychology video**, Dr. Cohn helps an athlete on knowing what to do in post games assessment to improve confidence and performance. Dr. Cohn answers a question from an athlete who is having a problem with making his decisions during the game.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a **master mental game** coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC. ​​​ Improve your mindset for sports with mental training for athletes. Watch the video on how to identify the key ideas in using a post-game assessment as a tool to improve mental game performance.

Most athletes lose their decisiveness during the completions because of mental game issues. In addition, losing composure due to confidence issues is a great challenge that everyone must learn how to overcome.

---

### Resources for Athletes, Coach, and Sports Parent

- Learn about [Mental Game Coaching For Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)
- Download our a FREE [Mental Toughness Report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/)
- Read our [Sports Psychology Articles](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/)
- Check out our [Sports Psychology Audio Programs](https://shop.peaksports.com/)

- Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
- Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcas](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X)[t](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Boost Your Confidence for Sports

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

Can you experience yourself right now walking out onto the court, diamond, course, or playing field with **complete conviction** in your ability **and unwavering confidence** beaming like a bright light? Imagine feeling dominant, positive with only confident thoughts, and ready to take control of the game.

You can learn how to **think like a champion** and have ultimate self-confidence just like the pros. It’s not hard or impossible to achieve – I help athletes reach their goals every day and you, too, can learn the same strategies I teach to my students who pay me well over $1000 per day for personal coaching.

Do you prefer **confident and in control** or **doubt and helplessness**? I thought so. You can **empower yourself to take action** and I have the mental strategies **to help unlock your confidence** and instill confidence-enhancing thoughts – so you can be in control with greater levels of confidence – consistently.

[LEARN MORE NOW](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)

[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

---

### [How to Build Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)

**Published:** December 3, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Hockey Psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Hockey.jpg)

## Mindset Training to Perform at Your Best

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Mindset Training to Perform at Your Best](#Mindset_Training_to_Perform_at_Your_Best)
    - [Building Mental Toughness](#Building_Mental_Toughness)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What is the opposite of mental toughness? The counter to mental toughness is mental fragility.

The mentally fragile athlete tends to experience apprehension in big moments, become overwhelmed when playing tough competition, and feel inadequate compared to other athletes.

Mentally fragile athletes are anxious even before the competition starts and have difficulty controlling their emotions after a mistake.

Mentally fragile athletes are anxious even before the competition starts and have difficulty controlling their emotions after a mistake.

Another misconception is that mental toughness is a genetic trait. Mental toughness is a skill, not a product of your genes. Since mental toughness is a skill, you can build your mental strength through **training**.

You cannot expect to go through the motions in practice and hope you will be mentally tough in a game. Mentally tough athletes focus on being mentally strong in practices and **training** sessions.

Mental toughness is particularly on display late in games. Low levels of mental toughness cause athletes or teams to not close out games or crumble after mistakes.

The 2021 Penn State University men’s hockey team has had difficulty bouncing back after the opposing team scores and playing hard for a full 60-minute game. The two areas are a result of low levels of mental toughness.

Playing all-out for the entirety of a game requires being tough-minded. When you play with total effort and focus, you can bounce back from mistakes, maintain confidence, focus on your game plan and compete aggressively.

In a game against Michigan, Penn State seems to give up early in the game. After the loss to Michigan, Penn State head coach Guy Gadowsky commented on his team’s mentality:

**GADOWSKY**: “*We didn’t finish. I thought we were very fragile…I thought that we played really well \[in\] the first half of the game, but the fragileness comes from \[how\] we gave up after (that))… It’s a 60-minute game.*”

If you want to play hard through an entire competition, you must work hard and remain focused during every minute of practice and **training**.

Practicing for greater mental toughness will give you the confidence needed to perform at your peak and overcome mistakes or obstacles.

Mental toughness is a skill. Mental toughness is a part of your preparation for a game. When you are not working on your cognitive skills, you are not thoroughly preparing to compete at a high level.

### Building Mental Toughness

One strategy for building mental toughness is to train your mind during practice by imagining situations you’ll have in competition.

If you want to compete aggressively late in a game, create that scenario in your mind during practice. For example, tell yourself, “This is a playoff game, and we are tied 1-1. Be aggressive.”

In this scenario, you are **training** your brain as to how you want to perform in competition.

Practicing mental toughness will help you play with mental toughness in games.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Mental Toughness as an Underdog](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-as-an-underdog/)
- [Mental Toughness Tips for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-tips-for-athletes/)
- [The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes

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### [Mindset to Maintain Confidence After a Mistake](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)

**Published:** December 10, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Overcome Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Mistakes.jpg)

## Growing and Learning From Costly Mistakes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Growing and Learning From Costly Mistakes](#Growing_and_Learning_From_Costly_Mistakes)
    - [What can you do to minimize the effects of costly mistakes?](#What_can_you_do_to_minimize_the_effects_of_costly_mistakes)
    - [Learning From Mistakes](#Learning_From_Mistakes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What effects do game-ending mistakes have on your confidence? For most young athletes, losing is difficult, but making a costly mistake late in a competition can hurt their confidence.

For example, a gymnast may become frustrated by a bobble in their routine. However, missing a landing to finish a routine and receiving a low score can crush a gymnast’s confidence.

Here’s another example, a basketball player who made a couple of unnecessary fouls early in a game can become a little agitated. But if that player commits a needless foul late in a game contributing to a loss, that player may be less aggressive on defense in future games.

Small mistakes early in a competition can still affect your confidence. However, costly mistakes late in a contest can be emotionally overwhelming. The negative emotional consequences of costly mistakes can have longstanding effects on confidence.

### What can you do to minimize the effects of costly mistakes?

For one, you should realize that your reaction to mistakes affects your confidence and future performances.

Letting go or learning from mistakes requires a mindset that does not view mistakes as career-defining moments. Mistakes are merely a blip on the screen in your career.

When you view mistakes in this manner, you gain a sense of control and empowerment, allowing you to re-focus your efforts and move forward.

Wide receiver Jalen Reagor was selected 21st in the 2020 NFL draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. In two seasons, Reagor has not made a significant impact on the team’s performance.

In a midseason game against the New York Giants, Reagor dropped two passes in the fourth quarter. One of Reagor’s drops was on the last play of the game-ending Philadelphia’s chance of a late-game comeback victory. The Eagles lost 13-7 to the Giants and fell to a 5-7 record.

After the game, Reagor put the game in perspective instead of beating himself up after the loss.

**REAGOR**: “*Just two drops that I would say (are) very uncharacteristic, but just got to go through the highs and lows and go on to next week and make the plays. That’s what you do with anything. That’s what you do in life. You have bad days. You have good days; you’ve just got to move forward. Because tomorrow’s still gotta be here, I still have to go practice. I still have to play next week. You can’t too much dwell on it. Just me taking ownership and moving forward.*“

Your response to mistakes will significantly impact your confidence and future performance when you make a mistake.

So, always keep in mind, mistakes don’t define you. Mistakes can refine you.

### Learning From Mistakes

The key is to grow and learn from mistakes rather than be self-critical about your performance…

Ask yourself, “Does this mistake define me as an athlete?” “What can I learn from this mistake?” “What can I do to prevent the same mistake from happening again?” “What can I work on in practice to improve my game?”

Working with a Mental Game Coach to overcome your personal triggers and develop composure strategies can improve your mental toughness. Contact us for more details about **one on one mental game coaching**.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Benefit From Mistakes in Competition ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-benefit-from-mistakes-in-competition/)
- [How to Refocus After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [How to Use Mistakes to Improve Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-use-mistakes-to-improve-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

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### [The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)

**Published:** December 17, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Mental-Toughness-2.jpg)

## Learning Mental Toughness Skills

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Learning Mental Toughness Skills](#Learning_Mental_Toughness_Skills)
    - [Conceding victory is not an option.](#Conceding_victory_is_not_an_option)
    - [How to be a Mentally Tough Athlete](#How_to_be_a_Mentally_Tough_Athlete)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What is the core characteristic of mental toughness? The term “mental toughness” is used by a lot of athletes…

Everyday you watch or listen to professional coaches, athletes, or commentators talk about mental toughness. As much as the term “mental toughness” is used, athletes and coaches still have difficulty elaborating on mental toughness and how to develop it.

For example, during half-time interviews with coaches, you will frequently hear a coach say, “We need more mental toughness in the second half if we are going to get back into the game.”

*So what exactly is mental toughness?*

Mental toughness is the competitive mindset that you are never “out of it” in a tightly contested competition.

In other words, when you are mentally tough, you will compete to the very end. You may not win the game or competition, but you will hustle, scrap, and give it your all to the very end.

### *Conceding victory is not an option.*

For example, a mentally tough gymnast who needs to score a personal best in her weakest event to finish on the podium will focus on the task at hand and go for it…

A mentally tough basketball team down 10 points with two minutes left in the game will fight for rebounds and play tough at the rim…

A mentally tough soccer player will let go of first-half mistakes and look for ways to impact the game in the second half.

Mental toughness is not a switch you flip. If you never practice mental game skills, you cannot expect to be mentally tough when the game is on the line.

Mental toughness is a skill….

You foster mental toughness when you push hard in practice, especially when tired. You develop mental toughness when you continue working on a skill you have difficulty mastering.

You build mental toughness when you visualize successfully competing at your peak under adverse game-time conditions. Athletes in sports at all levels can benefit tremendously from mental toughness training.

Anaheim Ducks defenseman Cam Fowler succinctly summed up mental toughness. After the Ducks secured a 3-2 overtime victory over the St. LouisBlues, Fowler credited the team’s mental toughness for the comeback win.

**FOWLER**: *“I don’t think we ever feel like we’re out of it. They got one there in the third, and we continued to fight.”*

Mental toughness is not a skill reserved for NHL players or national-level athletes. Mental toughness is a skill all athletes at every age can learn and improve.

Mental toughness training takes commitment. Not only should you learn how to develop mental toughness from a Mental Game Coach, but it is also necessary to train those skills in practice.

Then and only then will you be on your way to becoming a mentally tough peak performer.

### How to be a Mentally Tough Athlete

Compare and contrast your mental game when you are performing well versus not performing well. What are the differences in your mindset and performance?

Did you feel confidence, locked in, in control, and composed when performing well? These are all characteristics of mental toughness.

How did you respond to mistakes or adversity, such as a bad call by a referee? Did you stay composed and move on after mistakes? Another quality of mental toughness. You want to work on these qualities.

When not doing well, did you lack confidence, feel easily distracted, not in control, and frustrated with your performance? Did you “lose it” when faced with adversity, such as being down in the competition?

If so, this is the reason why you want to improve mental toughness. You want more days in which you feel confident and locked in!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Mental Toughness Tips for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-tips-for-athletes/)
- [How to Build Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)
- [Mental Toughness as an Underdog](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-as-an-underdog/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [Coaches: How to Better Support Your Athletes - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coaches-how-to-better-support-your-athletes/)

**Published:** December 21, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Improving Athletes Metal Game for Peak Performance

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Improving Athletes Metal Game for Peak Performance](#Improving_Athletes_Metal_Game_for_Peak_Performance)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

In this sports psychology video, Dr. Cohn helps sports coaches to **improve their coaching approach** to better support their athletes mental game performance. You’ll learn how a sports coach becomes a factor for an **athletes’ performance.** Dr. Cohn answers a question from a coach who as a coach wanted to learn more useful and effective approach to better supports his athletes.

Watch the video on how to become a **[better supports system](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdBAnHvzNx8 "better supports system")** for your young athletes for them to improve their mental game performance. In addition Dr. Cohn, Explains in this video his proven coaching tips, training and other platforms for coaches who wants to get certified as a mental game coach. The Peak Performance Sports MGCP Certification Program.

**Video on Supporting Athletes**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Coach: Support Your Athlete’s Mental Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coach-support-your-athletes-mental-game/)
- [**How to Become a Sports Cinderella Story Team**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-become-a-sports-cinderella-story-team/)
- [**How Pro Athletes Improve Their Mental Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-pro-athletes-improve-their-mental-game/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

---

### [How to Deal with External Noise](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-deal-with-external-noise/)

**Published:** December 31, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Tuning Out Negativity](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Negativity.jpg)

## Managing Negativity From Others

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Managing Negativity From Others](#Managing_Negativity_From_Others)
    - [How to Deal with “The Noise?”](#How_to_Deal_with_%E2%80%9CThe_Noise%E2%80%9D)
    - [Handling External Noise](#Handling_External_Noise)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

What are the main distractions that affect your performance? In what competitive situations do you find focusing more difficult?

Distractions can be described as unneeded noise in your mind

Some noise is internal such as your self-talk. You had probably experienced times when you thought, “I’m not good enough,” “I always choke,” or “Other athletes are so much better than me.”

Other distractions or noise exist externally: **negative** comments or behaviors from others, spectator jeers, negative press, social media comments, etc.

How you deal with noise will directly impact your performance. It would help if you realized external noise is only noise. External noise distracts you from focusing at the moment, especially when circumstances are stressful.

However, you can choose to tune out external noise or buy into the **negativity** from others.

When you buy into the negativity, that external noise creates internal noise. In other words, when you internalize outside **negativity**, that affects your thoughts, creates doubt, and causes you to question your ability to perform.

For example, buying into a negative comment from your parents before a competition might create doubt in your ability to perform under pressure…

Or your coach yelling at you after a mistake might cause you to perform cautiously and tight…

Or a trash-talking opponent might lead to anger and agitation, causing you to make uncharacteristic mistakes…

Or overhearing your teammates saying, “He should not be in the starting line-up,” can create mental tension and low energy levels.

### How to Deal with “The Noise?”

You deal with external noise by filtering out destructive comments and paying attention to instructive feedback. When you process information selectively, you will be able to stay focused in the moment.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has dealt with a lot of external noise throughout the 2021 NFL season. Questions about Mahomes’ accuracy have been frequently mentioned.

Still, Mahomes can filter out the noise. In a must-win game, with 2021 playoff implications, Mahomes remained poised, throwing a game-tying touchdown pass with 1:16 left in regulation, then a 34-yard touchdown pass to win in overtime,

Chiefs tight end Jason Kelce commented on Mahones’ composure under pressure:

**KELCE**: *“With the world on \[Mahomes’\] shoulders, baby, he showed up. I’m saying to all the haters, \[Mahomes\] is the real deal, and he showed it again tonight. … I heard some guys saying we weren’t going to make the playoffs. \[Mahomes\] isn’t the best quarterback in the league. It’s a lot of love for everybody on this team for fighting through adversity tonight and getting the win.”*

Performing at your peak requires tuning out the noise. You have no control over the **negative** comments and behaviors of others, but you do have control over your reaction.

### Handling External Noise

One way of handling **negativity** is refocusing on what’s important. Refocusing is a strategy to get back to what’s important.

When you notice external noise, interrupt those thoughts with, *“It’s just noise.”* Immediately following that cue, specify what you want to pay attention to, *“Now, focus on…”*

Remember, what you focus on is a matter of choice.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How Athletes Cope With Internal And External Distractions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-cope-with-internal-and-external-distractions/)
- [How to Overcome “What-If” Thinking](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-what-if-thinking/)
- [How to Focus When Coach is Yelling](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-focus-when-coach-is-yelling/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mindset in Sports, Sports Confidence, Sports Physcology

---

### [Helping Kids Stay in Sports - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-kids-stay-in-sports/)

**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Play for Yourself, Not to Please Others

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Play for Yourself, Not to Please Others](#Play_for_Yourself_Not_to_Please_Others)
    - [Watch Sports Psychology Video](#Watch_Sports_Psychology_Video)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

In this sports psychology video, Dr. Cohn helps an athlete make a tough decision of whether to quit her sports or not. You’ll learn that finding your **own motivation** and **joy** in playing your sport is more important than playing for other people. In this video, learn about how to decide if what you are experiencing are enough reason for your to quit your sport or you can just improve your mental game performance and continue to play.

In addition Dr. Cohn talks about the difference between losing the love for the sport vs. experiencing performance anxiety or fear of failure. Knowing the difference between the two is **very important**, before making a [**critical decision of quitting your game.**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHDobSb6NxI "critical decision of quitting your game.")

### Watch Sports Psychology Video

**Video on How to Play for Yourself**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**The Right Reasons for Every Athlete to Stay in Their Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-right-reasons-for-every-athlete-to-stay-in-their-game/)
- [**Staying Motivated in Your Sport**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/staying-motivated-in-your-sport/)
- [**How to Stay Motivated in Training Sessions**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-motivated-in-training-sessions/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Motivation, Sports Psychology Videos

---

### [How to Harness the Power of Consistency](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-harness-the-power-of-consistency/)

**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Facts and Fiction](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-5.jpg)

## Improve Your Consistency and Performance

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Improve Your Consistency and Performance](#Improve_Your_Consistency_and_Performance)
    - [Some misconceptions about consistency include:](#Some_misconceptions_about_consistency_include)
    - [What is Consistency?](#What_is_Consistency)
    - [How to Improve Consistency:](#How_to_Improve_Consistency)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

The hallmarks of success are peak performance and **consistency**.

While any athletes can have a great game once in a while, it’s performing at your peak on a consistent basis that most athletes struggle with achieving.

Being consistent is a hot topic for athletes who we’ve talked to over the years. One high school athlete asked for help with being consistent throughout the season:

*“How can I be more consistent in games? My performance goes up and down, not just from game to game but also play to play. It is frustrating because I know I have the ability but I just can’t put it together consistently.”*

One frustrating component to inconsistency is that you never know which athlete is going to show up–the athlete in the zone or the inconsistent athlete.

Some games you feel excited, confident and ready to go and have a great game. Other days, you feel unsure or tired. Pregame warm up feels uneasy and anxious. When the game begins, you make one mistake and your game spirals downward.

How you define **consistency** is important. If you define consistency in unrealistic terms then consistency will feel elusive.

### Some misconceptions about consistency include:

\*Consistency means perfection. “I can’t make any turnovers.”

\*Consistency means performing top of your game every game. “I must have my ‘A’ game, every game.”

\*Consistency means matching your best statistic every game. “I should score 15 points in the game.”

Outcomes are not the best judge of performance all the time. The true measure of **consistency** is how you played in terms of intensity, confidence, and focus.

Keep in mind that your opponents have a lot to do with how consistent you might play. Sometimes you can have a good game personally, but that day your opponent was better than you.

### What is Consistency?

Consistency is about taking your practice skills to games and performing like you know you can. But that doesn’t mean you will perform at your peak or have a personal best.

Consistency is the ability to perform with confidence, trust, and composure. Without these mental skills, you can’t be consistent.

**Consistency** is also about being able to perform well when you don’t have your “A” game. Sometimes you might not feel great in the warm up or at the start of the game, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a decent performance.

### How to Improve Consistency:

Define consistency in terms that make sense for you personally. What would consistency look like for you? How will you objectively evaluate your performance according to your definition of **consistency**?

We know that consistent mental and physical preparation leads to consistent performance. How will you prepare consistently?

Consistency starts well before game-time. You have to prepare your body and mind using your pregame nutrition, hydration, and warm up routine…

Intensity is important too. Think about the level of intensity that you need to perform well. Do you need to feel pumped up or do you need to relax and stay calm? You control your level of **consistency**.

What about your level of confidence? Do you play your best when you go into each game with confidence? You can control your confidence too. You want to enter each game with focus, confidence, trust, and composure.

Bring the right level of focus is also important. You can’t be consistent if you are distracted or engage in over thinking. Make sure you focus on the important performance cues when you start competition.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Increase Consistency in Competition?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-increase-consistency-in-competition/)
- [Strive for Consistency, Not The Zone](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strive-for-consistency-not-the-zone/)
- [Use Your Mind to Improve Your Consistency in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/use-your-mind-to-improve-your-consistency-in-competition/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Game in Sports, Sports Consistency

---

### [Manage Pressure Like an Olympian](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/manage-pressure-like-an-olympian/)

**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Skiing Olympics](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/managing-pressure.jpg)

## How to Perform Well Under Pressure

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Perform Well Under Pressure](#How_to_Perform_Well_Under_Pressure)
    - [Think of it as the following equation:](#Think_of_it_as_the_following_equation)
    - [Handling Pressure in High-Level Competitions](#Handling_Pressure_in_High-Level_Competitions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Are you able to convert pressure into energy, enthusiasm, or excitement during high-level competition?

Athletes who choke under pressure usually make the moment **bigger** than it is. In other words, they assign more significance to big tournaments than other competitors.

When you view a major competition as the most important part of the season, you will often feel more pressure, fear the possibility of failure, and experience a heightened level of anxiety. Fear and anxiety are the major contributors to choking.

### Think of it as the following equation:

**Fear of Failure + Increased Pressure = Anxiety + Choking**

For example, if you view a competition as the most important competition of the year or a must-win game, you will put more pressure on yourself. You will think, “I have to be my best. I trained all year for this competition.

If I don’t perform well, my season will be wasted.” You will think of all the people expecting you to achieve a personal best performance.

That is a lot of pressure to put on yourself. Under these circumstances, your mind will be full of doubt, and your body will feel tight. Focusing will be difficult. Decision-making and reaction times will slow up. All these factors lead to choking.

So, how can you perform better under pressure?

You can prevent choking and perform better by changing your perspective about pressure or the importance of a competition, “This tournament is just another competition or game. I’ve been competing in this sport for years. I’m well-trained and prepared. A little pressure will help give me a boost of energy and improve my focus.”

The competition hasn’t changed, but your perspective about the competition changed. Of course, weather and field/course conditions may differ, but most aspects of the competition remain the same.

A shift in perspective changes your thoughts and emotions and fuels performance.

In the Olympics, athletes worldwide compete against the best athletes on the grandest stage. These athletes have trained for years and need to be in peak mental and physical condition to perform their best. Perspective and mindset are crucial to perform at their peak.

Take, for instance, 18-year-old Eileen Gu. Gu is a freestyle skier and is favored to medal at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. At the 2021 World Championships, Gu won two gold medals in Freeski Halfpipe and Freeski Slopestyle.
In an interview, Gu talked about her perspective on pressure.

**GU**: *“I grew up as a runner, so I’ve been working on that to build myself up; mentally and physically, I’m really proud of myself to be able to keep that consistency throughout \[the season\]. I do feel fatigued, but I really love pressure, I genuinely feed off of nervous energy, and so I think it was good because it kept my adrenaline high.”*

Gu views the Olympics as a challenge, an opportunity to see how far she can go in the sport. Gu converts pressure into excitement and motivation to fuel her performance.

Maintaining perspective, thinking highly of your skills, and preparation foster positive emotions, helping you **manage** pressure. These conditions foster peak performance.

### Handling Pressure in High-Level Competitions

Don’t wait until you arrive at a competition to cope with pressure. Getting ready for a major competition requires the mental work ahead of time.

Start by anticipating what you might feel in this event? What are the emotions you might have? What are the challenges you can anticipate?

Next, how will you cope with these challenges and emotions. For example, if you have to compete in extreme cold conditions, how will you cope with this?

A prepared mind will help you **manage** pressure and perform at your peak.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)[The Importance of Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)[How Athletes Deal with Stress](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[How to Overcome the Fear of Negative Outcomes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Golf Psychology, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Rebounding After a Bad Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/rebounding-after-a-bad-performance/)

**Published:** January 21, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Moving Forward After a Bad Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Poor-Performance.jpg)

## Not Letting One Bad Game Define Your Skills

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Not Letting One Bad Game Define Your Skills](#Not_Letting_One_Bad_Game_Define_Your_Skills)
    - [ Bouncing back consists of three components:](#_Bouncing_back_consists_of_three_components)
    - [Moving Forward after a Poor Performance](#Moving_Forward_after_a_Poor_Performance)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How long does it take you to get over a loss or poor performance? Hours? Days? Weeks?

The longer you ruminate about a **bad game** or lackluster performance, the more it becomes embedded in your mind. Reliving a bad game is like training your mind for a repeat performance.

When you mentally rehearse a scenario repeatedly, you are more likely to perform that way in the future.

In addition, ruminating about a poor performance negatively affects your focus in two ways. First, when you can’t shake the memory of a **bad game**, you will not be fully engaged in practice.

A lack of focus in practice interferes with honing your skills, improving your game, and preparing for future performances.

Secondly, dwelling on a **bad game** creates a fear of failure. In a competition, fear takes your focus away from what you should be doing in the moment.

To overcome past losses, mistakes, or performances, you need to have a short memory. That is, you should stop focusing on what has already happened. A forgettable performance should be just that – **FORGOTTEN!**

For example, the University of North Carolina Women’s basketball team suffered a big loss to state rival North Carolina State, 72-45. The 27-point loss was UNC’s first loss of the 2022 season.

After the North Carolina State loss, UNC head coach Courtney Banghart talked about the loss and the importance of moving forward.

**BANGHART**: *“In a process, you want every step to be forward, but that’s not how processes work. Some steps are humbling, and some are backward. And this was both of those things… You have to have a short memory in this league. You don’t get time to cry about it and worry about it.”*

In the next game, UNC hit the reset button and played one of their best games of the season, defeating Virginia Tech, 71-46.

Bouncing back is a matter of attitude and focus, both of which are mental skills.

- First, your attitude determines how you view events. Do you see a loss as a lesson or a lack of talent? Do you view success as a process?
- Secondly, your focus determines how well you will perform in the moment. Are you focused on past performances or the current moment/ competition?

###  Bouncing back consists of three components:

1\. Understanding all athletes experience mistakes, slow times, missed shots, failed attempts, and lackluster performances.

2\. Realizing that a **bad game** or poor performance is a part of the improvement process.

3\. Refocusing on what is next.

If you can accept these three components, you will vastly improve future performances.

### Moving Forward after a Poor Performance

Give yourself a brief amount of time, 24 hours or less, to be assess competition. It’s okay to review and learn from your performance but avoid reliving your mistakes over and over.

Whenever you recognize that you are ruminating about your mistakes, remind yourself, “That competition is over. What can I do today to improve my performance tomorrow?”

Learning, moving forward, and bouncing back is a mental skill.

If you have difficulty bouncing back, contact us at Peak Performance Sports to improve mental toughness.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Refocus After Making Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [How to Recover From a Poor Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-recover-from-a-poor-performance/)
- [3 Ways to Quickly Rebound from Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-quickly-rebound-from-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Performing Well Under Pressure](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performing-well-under-pressure/)

**Published:** January 28, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Prevent Choking on High Pressure Games](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Prevent-Choking.jpg)

## Keep Focus and Stay in the Moment

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Keep Focus and Stay in the Moment](#Keep_Focus_and_Stay_in_the_Moment)
    - [Choking is rooted in three sources:](#Choking_is_rooted_in_three_sources)
    - [Preventing Choking when Under Pressure](#Preventing_Choking_when_Under_Pressure)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

What causes choking? Why do some athletes choke while other athletes rise to the occasion?

No athlete likes to hear the word “choking,” let alone admit it. Yet, some athletes believe they “always choke” when the pressure is on.

### Choking is rooted in three sources:

1\. **Self-talk** – If you tell yourself you will choke over and over or refer to yourself as a choker, guess what will happen when the pressure is on? You got it. You will probably choke. Self-talk is powerful. Think of self-talk as a directive. Your self-talk tells you what to do, how to do it, and when to do it.

For example, “In the last minutes of a close basketball game (when to do it), I always choke (what to do) and shoot the ball short (how to do it).”

Giving yourself a different message will give you a different result. “When my legs get tired, make sure I get my legs into the shot and follow-through.” In games, it’s ideal for shortening this message by using cue words, legs, follow-through.

2\. **Perspective** – When you view pressure situations as an opportunity to fail or embarrass yourself, you will tense up and play it safe. In the ninth inning of a tied baseball game, if you see yourself as a “choker,” you will try not to strike out instead of swinging the bat and making solid contact.

You are more successful when you see challenging situations as a chance to shine and help your team.

3\. **Focus** – Focusing on results, the outcome of a gymnastics routine, missing a game winning shot, losing a set in a tennis match build anxiety. Anxiety negatively affects your physiology and mechanics, causing you to choke.

Staying immersed in what you are doing keeps your attention in the moment, freeing your mind and body just to perform.

Choking or performing under pressure directly results from your perspective, focus, and self-messaging, all of which are under your control.

For example, the Boston Celtics have blown leads of at least 19 points four times in the 2021-22 season, which is the most in the NBA.

A recent 108-105 loss to the New York Knicks, after having a 25-point lead put the Celtics just outside of the playoff picture.

Celtics head coach Ime Udoka talked about how his team needs to respond to adversity:

**UDOKA**: *“It’s guys getting rattled when it’s not the end of the world. You still have a 12-point, comfortable lead, and you gotta end that run. We have to understand time and score, and we need a solid shot and not just get caught up in the game.”*

Blowing a big lead is often due to choking or playing it too safe. The fear of unraveling and losing after having a commanding lead causes you to play cautious and back on your heels.

The focus always needs to be on the present moment. When your mind drifts away from the “present time,” under performance or choking will be the result.

### Preventing Choking when Under Pressure

One strategy to prevent choking is to reframe how you view pressure games. For top athletes, pressure elevates their game when they use the added intensity to go deeper into the zone. Look at pressure as a challenge to excel, not an opportunity to fail.

Under pressure, the game is the same with the same size court, rink, or field. The only thing that changes is your perspective of the importance of the game!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/)
- [How to Perform Big in Pressure Moments](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-big-in-pressure-moments/)
- [Is Pressure Your Friend or Foe?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/is-pressure-your-friend-or-foe/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-1-1.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Choking in Sports, Confidence in Sports Tips, Mental Toughness in Sports, Sports Psychology Articles

---

### [Having Fun While Performing at Your Best](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/having-fun-while-performing-at-your-best/)

**Published:** February 4, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![More Fun and Performing Better](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/having-more-fun.jpg)

## Why Did You Start Playing in the First Place

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Why Did You Start Playing in the First Place](#Why_Did_You_Start_Playing_in_the_First_Place)
    - [High expectations become unbearable.](#High_expectations_become_unbearable)
    - [Tip for Focusing on the Fun of Competing](#Tip_for_Focusing_on_the_Fun_of_Competing)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Do you have fun when you compete? Is sport enjoyable for you, or does it cause added stress in your life?

You would think athletes have a deep passion and love for competing, but that is not always the case…

Many athletes admit that competing is not fun. High expectations and pressure have taken the fun out of competing for many athletes today. Why do some athletes find competing no longer enjoyable?

Think back to when you first started participating in your sport? Practices were fun. Competitions were exciting. You couldn’t wait to get home from school so you could go to practice. You enjoyed being around your teammates. Probably, many of your teammates were your close friends.

Unfortunately, as some athletes grow older something changes. Practices feel like an obligation. You fear failure. Everything about your sport is more serious. You feel you are constantly being judged.

You view wins, personal bests, trophies, or accolades as the most important aspects of competition. When you focus on results, pressure and stress dominate your mind…

### High expectations become unbearable.

- “If I don’t beat this person, I’m a failure.”
- “If I don’t perform at a high level, I won’t get a scholarship.”
- “If I don’t win, my parents will be angry.”
- “If I make any mistakes, my teammates will get upset with me.”

All the if’s lead to higher expectations, more pressure to perform, greater fear of failing, and less enjoyment of competing.

Let’s look at this issue through the lens of an Olympic athlete. Maddie Mastro is a 21-year-old snowboarder preparing for her second Olympics at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

At the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, Mastro fell short of her goal of medaling, finishing 12th in the halfpipe. Mastro explained how pressure and high expectations affected her performance:

**MASTRO**: “*I was 17, turning 18 at the last Olympics, so I was young. I’ve had a lot of time to grow and learn… I’m going to go into the next Olympics not worrying what people are going to think, not worrying about the expectations or the pressures, whether they’re exterior or my own.*“

For the 2022 Olympic Games, Mastro has shifted her mindset. Mastro is primarily focused on having fun and executing her game plan.

**MASTRO**: “*I’m just going to prioritize having fun and landing tricks, which is something I wish I did more of in 2018, because I did let those expectations or pressures, kind of, eat away at me a little bit. And this time, I’m just going to go treat it like any other contest and have fun.*“

When you focus too much on results and want it badly, you become anxious and underperform. You can avoid falling into that trap by choosing a different mindset.

Focusing on having fun and executing your game plan increases your chances of success. In addition, you will re-ignite the passion you experienced when you were a younger athlete. Shifting your mindset to a productive and positive perspective is a win-win proposition.

### Tip for Focusing on the Fun of Competing

Every day before you train or compete, remind yourself the reasons you started competing in the first place. Write a list of the reasons you had fun as a young athlete.

Make these objectives–what you enjoyed about sports–a priority when you compete today.

Next, release yourself of the high expectations you have (or feel from others), such as to perform at your best all the time or be perfect. Expectations are the root of dissatisfaction when you don’t meet them.

Uncover your “shoulds” or “shouldn’ts.” I should not make mistakes, I should make coach happy, or I should always perform my best are examples of expectations you want to discard to have more fun.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-mental-toughness/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-mental-toughness/)[Manage Pressure Like an Olympian](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/manage-pressure-like-an-olympian/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-stress-can-affect-sports-performance/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)[How Athletes Deal with Stress](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pregame-stress-and-anxiety-athletes-mental-roadblock-to-success/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-to-maintain-confidence-after-a-mistake/)[Staying Motivated in Your Sport](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/staying-motivated-in-your-sport/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports, The Athlete Mindset

---

### [The Mindset to Perform at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-a-higher-level/)

**Published:** February 11, 2022
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Performing at a Higher Level](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/High-Level-of-Performance.jpg)

##  Improve Progress in Sports

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [ Improve Progress in Sports](#_Improve_Progress_in_Sports)
    - [The Mindset Behind Growth](#The_Mindset_Behind_Growth)
    - [Countering the “Just Happy to Be Here” Mentality:](#Countering_the_%E2%80%9CJust_Happy_to_Be_Here%E2%80%9D_Mentality)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What is the “just happy to be here” mindset? This mindset is where you work hard all season long to achieve a goal. Then, when you achieve that goal, you become content or complacent.

Contentment hurts further **progress**. When you are satisfied with your accomplishment, you stop moving in the direction of greater achievements. You come to a standstill.

One reason for this mental standstill is the stress of performing at a **higher level**. At a higher level, competition is even more challenging. The pressure is greater.

Some **higher-level** competitions, such as championships, nationals, Junior Olympics, conference meets, can be stressful for some athletes. Instead of focusing on performing, the athlete wants the competition to be over.

Imagine a swimmer setting a goal for their first National cut. She practiced 5-6 days a week for two-plus hours per day. She put in more effort than previous years with private stroke instruction, dryland training, swim camps, and training trips. Her focus and efforts were geared to this one singular goal, making a national cut.

### The Mindset Behind Growth

After tapering and swimming a personal best, she achieved her goal. She was content with her accomplishment. Suddenly, the ante has been upped. At Nationals, every swimmer was talented and fast.

This swimmer was seeded somewhere in the middle of the pack in her only event. She was so anxious to be in a meet of this caliber, and she just wanted to complete her race, climb out of the pool, and be done.

“The just happy to be here mindset” builds stress, anxiety, and pressure. Even with this **mindset**, you still practice and attempt to be your best. However, that mindset holds you back from performing at your peak and achieving more.

Take, for example, two-time gold medalist Jamie Anderson. In the 2022 Winter Olympics, Anderson was the only female slopestyle competitor who won an Olympic gold medal.

Anderson finished ninth in the event, falling short of her goal of a podium finish. No doubt Anderson was prepared and absolutely went for it. However, despite being a veteran, you can hear how stress affected her performance from her post-event comments.

**ANDERSON**: *“I feel so sad to not be able to put down a run, but I feel relieved that it’s over because it’s a really high-stress week here.”*

Many athletes can identify with this experience, but what is the solution?

### Countering the “Just Happy to Be Here” Mentality:

1\. Set simple goals – Reset your goal after your significant accomplishment, but make them manageable. Setting a new goal provides you with a new target. Setting reachable goals keep stress at a manageable level.

2\. Focus on the Process – Anxiety builds when you are focused on the outcome of a competition. Keep your focus on what you are doing moment by moment.

3\. Learn stress reduction strategies – Competition anxiety will not go away on its own. You need to counteract or manage anxiety through proven methods that work for you, such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation, thought stopping, visualization, etc.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [A Mindset for Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/a-mindset-for-success/)
- [Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)
- [How to Overcome the “Average” Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-average-mindset/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Develop a Clutch Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-develop-a-clutch-mindset/)

**Published:** October 1, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![clutch vs. choke mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/10-1-sr-large.jpg)

## Do You Clutch or Choke as an Athlete?

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Do You Clutch or Choke as an Athlete?](#Do_You_Clutch_or_Choke_as_an_Athlete)
    - [The Characteristics of a Choke Mindset](#The_Characteristics_of_a_Choke_Mindset)
    - [The Characteristics of a Clutch Mindset](#The_Characteristics_of_a_Clutch_Mindset)
    - [How to Foster a Clutch Mindset:](#How_to_Foster_a_Clutch_Mindset)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Why do some athletes deliver in competition while other athletes **choke under pressure**?

Do you see yourself as a clutch athlete or an athlete that chokes under pressure?

**Choking** is something that many athletes struggle with. Choking can prevent you from excelling in competitions and reaching your athletic potential.

Many athletes have mentioned questions, comments, and concerns about choking under pressure.

For example:
**Golf** – “I get so nervous in big tournaments that I miss easy putts.”

**Tennis** – “How can I close out a match, especially when my opponents are catching up in the final set?”

**Baseball** – “When my team is making a rally late in a game, I crack under the pressure and strike out too often.”

**Soccer** – “I always seem to miss scoring on penalty kicks when the game is on the line.”

No matter the sport you play, whether you are clutch or choke boils down to your **mindset**.

### The Characteristics of a Choke Mindset

Athletes with a **Choke Mindset**…

- These athletes feel anxious when under pressure during crunch time.
- Worry about failing and letting down their teammates, especially late in the competition.
- Focus on negative outcomes. These athletes have low confidence and see themselves faltering with the game on the line.
- Hold back or play not to lose. These athletes play cautiously and conservatively, instead of playing to win.

### The Characteristics of a Clutch Mindset

Athletes with a **Clutch Mindset**…

- Channel pressure or nervous energy to improve performance (e.g., the tennis player who hits the ball with a little more pace in a tiebreak).
- Want to be the star athlete who wins the game through their motivation to succeed (e.g., the basketball player who wants to take the last shot in the final seconds of a game).
- Immerse themselves in the moment and have laser focus when the game is on the line (e.g., the golfer who blocks out all distractions and is solely focused on sinking a ten-foot putt to win a tournament).
- Go for it and don’t hold back (the soccer player who aggressively pushes the ball downfield looking for opportunities to set up his teammates to score).
- Have **high confidence** and know they can perform in crunch time (e.g., the baseball relief pitcher who trusts his ability to get hitters out when runners are in scoring position).

When you believe you don’t have the “clutch mindset,” you will get trapped in the choke mindset and feel overwhelmed when the game is on the line.

Your mindset is trained, meaning you can re-train your **mindset** to perform better under pressure.

Training your mindset is a philosophy of Former Miami Heat coach David Fizdale. Fizdale views practices as opportunities to train yourself to be clutch.

**FIZDALE**: “*\[When you push in practice\], the message is, you are preparing yourself for a war. Practices should be a war. Practices should be harder than the games.*“

By practicing in clutch situations, you can train your mind to perform better in pressure situations.

### How to Foster a Clutch Mindset:

Make sure your practices reflect the way you want to play in the competition. If you want to grind it out until the end of a competition, keep battling in practice.

Set up big moment scenarios in practice. Play crow noise. Bring in live fans into your scrimmages. Imagine how you want to perform with two minutes left in the competition or the last heat, moto, or routine.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**How to Become a Clutch Athlete**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-become-a-clutch-athlete/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**How to Be Clutch Like Portland’s Damian Lillard**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-clutch-like-portlands-damian-lillard/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**How Elite Athletes Combat Worry**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-combat-worry/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Training

**Tags:** Choking in Sports, Focus and Concentration for Athletes

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### [How Your Learning Style Can Help You Visualize](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-your-learning-style-can-help-you-visualize/)

**Published:** October 15, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![mental imagery in sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/10-15-SR-large.jpg)

## Improve Success in Sports With Mental Imagery

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Improve Success in Sports With Mental Imagery](#Improve_Success_in_Sports_With_Mental_Imagery)
    - [They mention several benefits that they received through visualization, including:](#They_mention_several_benefits_that_they_received_through_visualization_including)
    - [Mental Imagery and Your Performance](#Mental_Imagery_and_Your_Performance)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Is mental imagery a gimmick or a useful **mental game skill** to improve athletic performance?

In fact, many athletes have found a lot of success using visualization daily in their training regimes.

### They mention several benefits that they received through visualization, including:

- More confidence
- Better focus
- Poise under pressure
- Greater consistency
- Improvement in the ability to focus

If so many successful athletes visualize, what exactly is holding you back from adopting this reliable performance enhancement strategy?

Most athletes use mental imagery naturally when they practice and compete. They just don’t call it this…

–Soccer players “see” the entire field in their minds.
–Golfers visualize a putt from behind the ball.
–Tennis players feel a solid serve as they step up to the line.
–Football players see the play in their heads.

Like these other players, you too can benefit from using mental imagery to your advantage. There are several ways to use it.

You can use it prior to practicing any skill. The key is to use a style that is comfortable for you…

I (Dr. Cohn) was working with a PGA Tour Pro at Bay Hill a few years ago and we started talking about routines and visualizing golf shots.

He said: “I can’t really see the shot in my mind, but I’ve heard so many players talking about it including Jack Nicklaus.”

“Why can’t I see a shot in my mind when I try so hard to and everyone else can?”

I said to the golfer, that’s not your preference of learning and performing…

See, not everyone can actually “visualize” their shots or see the path of the ball because some players are more kinesthetic or feel-oriented, which is not a bad thing.

So we started talking about what “images” he could use in his routine to take advantage of **mental imagery**.

If you’re predominately a “feel” player, you might think about good balance, tempo, or feeling free with your swing.

Try thinking back to a game or performance where you played well. Did you use certain types of images when competing? You can try to replicate the same images today.

But you certainly don’t want to force yourself into a style of imagery that doesn’t suit you.

It doesn’t matter if you are shooting free-throws or kicking field goals, the same concept applies: use the right images for your learning style.

It is good to keep in mind that many athletes are a combination of visual, kinesthetic, auditory, and tactile learning styles. So use the images that work for you!

The images in your mind prime your mind and body for success by imprinting successful outcomes in your mind.

Wizards center Ian Mahinmi puts it this way, “It \[positive imaging\] is like building muscle memory, but for your brain.” It’s really motor memory, but coaches refer to is as muscle memory.

### Mental Imagery and Your Performance

1\. Relax and get comfortable. This will help quiet your mind.
2\. See and/or feel yourself performing how you want to in competition.
3\. Use as many senses as possible to have a more realistic experience.
4\. Rehearse only positive outcomes in the beginning.
5\. Immerse yourself in the emotions you would experience when performing successfully.

Bonus tip: Make sure you tap into your dominant learning and performing style when using mental rehearsal. Are you primarily a visual learner or a feel-oriented learner?

You can improve the mental skill of **visualization** with practice. Use your imagination to program yourself for success!

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**How Elite Athletes Use Visualization** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-use-visualization/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/)
- [**How Preparation Boosts Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Learning Techniques in Sports, Mental Imagery in Sports, Visualization in Sports

---

### [Learn to "Give It Your All" During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/learn-to-give-it-your-all-during-competition/)

**Published:** October 16, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![effort in basketball](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/10-15-basketball-large.jpg)

## How to Stay Focused to Finish Strong

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Stay Focused to Finish Strong](#How_to_Stay_Focused_to_Finish_Strong)
    - [Why do some athletes give less than their best?](#Why_do_some_athletes_give_less_than_their_best)
    - [How to Compete with a “Giving It your All” Mindset:](#How_to_Compete_with_a_%E2%80%9CGiving_It_your_All%E2%80%9D_Mindset)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Learn Proven Sports Psychology Strategies to Improve Basketball Mental Toughness](#Learn_Proven_Sports_Psychology_Strategies_to_Improve_Basketball_Mental_Toughness)

Have you ever finished a competition and had regrets about your **lack of effort**?

It’s one thing to lose, but it is a bitter pill to swallow when you lost and know you didn’t give it your all.

When you lose, it’s not always your fault. Many contributing factors impact the outcome of a game. Officiating, the level of performance from your opponents, competition conditions, and injuries are just a few factors that affect the outcome of a competition.

The only factors that are fully under your control are your attitude, your effort, and your **focus**.

When you give it your all, it is easier to accept defeat or an unfavorable outcome as opposed to when you held back or mentally gave up.

You hear the same message from coaches all the time in every sport:

Basketball coaches tell their players, “Leave it all on the court… Chase down balls. Don’t concede any points. Push through fatigue.”

The expression “**leave it all on the court**” refers to giving it your all: all your focus and all your effort until the very last second of a competition.

Giving it all you’ve got doesn’t guarantee victory, but it does lead to performing your best and having little regret over the result.

### Why do some athletes give less than their best?

- Fear of making mistakes or being embarrassed for not performing well.
- Anxiety and playing tight, nervous, and tense.
- Being frustrated with mistakes and tanking.
- Nagging injuries.

When you have fear, anxiety or a **lack of focus**, you will bring into fruition the exact results you are trying to avoid.

Not only will you feel bad about the loss, but you will feel even worse if you gave less than your all.

Championships are won or lost by the level of an athlete’s effort and **focus**.

In Game 5 of the NBA Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers were just one game away from winning the NBA Championship against the Miami Heat. Miami guard Jimmy Butler was not willing to concede the championship.

Instead, Butler led the Heat to a season-saving 111-108 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers and finished the game with 35 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists, 5 steals and a blocked shot.

Butler played in all but 48 seconds of the game. Butler was drained physically and mentally during the last minutes of the game but continued high effort until the final whistle.

**BUTLER**: “*I left it all out on the floor along with my guys and that’s how we’re gonna have to play from here on out. That’s what really, really, really great players do. But we ain’t backing down. We ain’t shying away.*“

**Giving it your all** is a mindset that you consciously choose before a competition. It is the mindset of not backing down, not shying away and “leaving it all out on the court” so you can rise to the occasion and produce your best performance.

### How to Compete with a “Giving It your All” Mindset:

Sometimes, to fight through fatigue or other challenges, you need to want to meet your goals more than giving in to it.

In these instances, you can use self-talk to help you keep going such as “Finish strong,” “Go for it,” or “No regrets.”

Battling unit the end of a competition and **giving it your all** is a mindset that you choose and produces your best.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**Staying Focused on the Task at Hand with Simon Hartley**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/staying-focused-on-the-task-at-hand-with-simon-hartley/)
- [**How Preparation Boosts Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Learn Proven Sports Psychology Strategies to Improve Basketball Mental Toughness

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/basketball-large.jpg)

Are you (or your athletes) performing with less confidence in games than in practice? Do you **lose confidence easily** if you make a turnover or miss your first shot? Do you become so frustrated with your performance that you can’t think about the next play?

If you answered yes to these questions, it’s a good bet that your **mental game** might prevent you from performing your up to your ability in games. How much time do you work on your **mindset for basketball** compared to the time you spend working on your physical skills?

If you’re ready to improve your **mental toughness for** basketball and perform with stable self-confidence in games, check out:

[**The Mental Edge For Basketball: 8 Mental Game Lessons for Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/basketball-psychology-program/)

Buy Now!

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Confidence in sports, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus in Competition, Positive Mindset in Sports

---

### [How to React to a Poor Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-react-to-a-poor-performance/)

**Published:** October 22, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Overcome Bad Performance ](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/10-21-SR-large.jpg)

## Stop Dwelling on Mistakes for a Better Mindset

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Stop Dwelling on Mistakes for a Better Mindset](#Stop_Dwelling_on_Mistakes_for_a_Better_Mindset)
    - [Kenin was ranked No. 3 in the world before being shut out by Azarenka.](#Kenin_was_ranked_No_3_in_the_world_before_being_shut_out_by_Azarenka)
    - [How to Move On After a Poor Performance:](#How_to_Move_On_After_a_Poor_Performance)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How do you process a **disastrous performance**? How do you move on from a performance that is so devastating that you want to leave the arena as fast as possible?

Every athlete can point to that one horrible performance they would want to erase from their career.

Many athletes reach out to ask how they can move forward after horrible performances.

Disastrous performances happen in every sport: baseball pitchers may be pulled from the game in the first inning after giving up 6 runs… golfers could be carded three triple-bogeys in one round of golf… basketball players may shoot 0-for-12 and turn the ball over several times in one game.

A terrible performance in competition can leave you feeling emotionally and **mentally defeated**. You may begin to **lose confidence** in your abilities and feel so embarrassed or nervous to face your coach that you don’t want to even show up to practice.

The bad performance itself is not the problem. As stated before, even the best athletes in the world have horrible days. The problem is when the bad performance gets stuck on repeat in your head. Replaying and reliving bad performances evokes a powerful negative emotional response that can create a performance rut that is difficult to dig yourself out of.

If you allow a bad performance to infect your mindset, it will affect your future performances. You will feel stuck, anxious and fearful that you will repeat this performance over and over.

“Disastrous” is how WTA player Sofia Kenin described her 6-0, 6-0 loss to Victoria Azarenka at the 2020 Italian Open.

### Kenin was ranked No. 3 in the world before being shut out by Azarenka.

**KENIN**: “*We came to Paris and I had a week or so to practice, to get used to the clay. I just tried to not think about that match. That match I’m never gonna watch.*“

A lot of athletes struggle to shed the memories of **bad performances**. But if you continue to relive the bad experience, it only makes it harder to forget.

Re-watching your mental movie of a bad performance causes the ending stick in your mind and makes it feel impossible to move forward.

What you choose to watch over and over, you expect to repeat. When you replay negative performances, the likelihood is that you will continue to have additional poor performances.

How do you put horrible performances behind you?

Turn the channel… Watch something else… Tune into or focus on something that leads to better results.

**Visualization** is an effective strategy to turn the channel to the **positive**:

–Visualize past top performances.
–Visualize how you want to perform in the future.
–Visualize yourself rebounding from mistakes or losses and achieving success.

Getting back on the horse, so to speak, depends on how quickly you turn the mental channels and focus on self-enhancing images.

### How to Move On After a Poor Performance:

Feed yourself a daily dose of self-enhancing images. Avoid replaying the bad plays in your mind.

Visualize 10-15 minutes every day and see yourself performing how you want to perform.

Replace the bad images in your mind with **positive imagery** to overcome bad performances.

Don’t allow negative images to sabotage your performance. Feed yourself with positive images through visualization and you will enhance your performance.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**How to Benefit From Mistakes in Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-benefit-from-mistakes-in-competition/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**How to Refocus After Making Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**How to Use Mistakes to Improve Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-use-mistakes-to-improve-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Confidence in sports, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Visualization for Athletes

---

### [How to Improve Your Body Language](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-your-body-language/)

**Published:** November 1, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## The Sports Psychology Podcast

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you struggle with **negative body language** when you compete?

Often times there are certain **triggers** that lead to your negative body language. Athletes need to be aware of what they are doing to exhibit this negative body language.

You don’t want to show your opponents that you have a **negative mindset**. Become aware of what you are doing and create a new **positive focal point** to remind yourself to stay **composed** and keep your game face on. Change your internal dialogue to be more positive to help change your body language.

</p>

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How to Overcome Negative Body Language – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-negative-body-language/)
- [**Overcome Negative Self-talk in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcome-negative-self-talk-in-sports/)
- [**How Preparation Boosts Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [How to Overcome Negative Body Language - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-negative-body-language/)

**Published:** October 29, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Stay Composed and Keep Your Game Face On

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Stay Composed and Keep Your Game Face On](#How_to_Stay_Composed_and_Keep_Your_Game_Face_On)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

Do you or your athletes have negative body language when they compete? In a new **sports psychology video** this week, you learn about how to[ **overcome negative body language**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1pmIH5_vPc " overcome negative body language") and stay composed even when you make mistakes.

Many athletes struggle to stay **composed** when they encounter adversity or when they make **mistakes** in competition. These athletes tend to let their **frustration** show physically through their actions on the court or field.

Learn more by watching this week’s video now:

**Video on Keeping your Game Face**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How to Improve Your Body Language**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-your-body-language/)
- [**Overcome Negative Self-talk in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcome-negative-self-talk-in-sports/)
- [**How to Overcome the Fear of Negative Outcomes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Composure in Sports, Mistakes in Sports

---

### [How Triathlete Pedro Gomes Reacts to Adversity During COVID-19](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-triathlete-pedro-gomes-reacts-to-adversity-during-covid-19/)

**Published:** October 30, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![adversity in sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/10-29-track-large.jpg)

## How Athletes Can Improve When Adversity Strikes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Athletes Can Improve When Adversity Strikes](#How_Athletes_Can_Improve_When_Adversity_Strikes)
    - [Adversity can be challenging depending upon your perspective to other athletes.](#Adversity_can_be_challenging_depending_upon_your_perspective_to_other_athletes)
    - [Doing something or taking positive action when faced with adversity is empowering.](#Doing_something_or_taking_positive_action_when_faced_with_adversity_is_empowering)
    - [How to Improve as an Athlete when Adversity Strikes:](#How_to_Improve_as_an_Athlete_when_Adversity_Strikes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

What types of **adversity** have created difficulty for you in the past?

Maybe you have experienced an injury or long-term sickness… Or were cut from a team or benched by your coach… Or bombed in a big competition or missed the playoffs… Or had conflict with your teammates or personal issues.

### Adversity can be challenging depending upon your perspective to other athletes.

Recently, the COVID pandemic created huge obstacles for all athletes.
You, as well as every other athlete, experienced the disruption of your life and your participation in your sport.

You may feel as if the pandemic crushed your hopes and dreams for the athletic year.

**Adversity** is similar in nature but different in intensity.

When you hit adversity in your athletic career, it may feel as though you can do nothing about it, but that mindset leaves you feeling helpless and down. No matter what you are facing, taking **positive action** will help alleviate the stress of adversity.

For example, it may be true that you may not be able to perform at your peak when you are injured or sick, but you still can do something. You can utilize your time to **improve your mental game**, strengthen weak body parts or catch up on schoolwork…

It may seem hopeless when you are cut from a team or benched, but you can still do something to positively impact your performance. You can look for new ways to hone technique, improve your conditioning or work on weak parts of your game…

It may feel impossible when you are clashing with teammates or dealing with personal issues, but you can still do something positive for your game. You can learn to communicate better, take responsibility for your actions or find resources to help resolve personal issues…

### Doing something or taking *positive action* when faced with adversity is empowering.

- Taking positive action prepares you for the future.
- Taking positive action prepares you to compete when the pressure is on.
- Taking positive action in tough times builds **mental toughness**.

The COVID-19 shutdown caused the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The postponement of the Olympics was hard to deal with for every athlete prepared to showcase their skills and ability on the world stage.

Portuguese professional triathlete Pedro Gomes, who spent countless hours training and preparing for the biggest competition in the world, was left to face adversity on a grand scale.

**GOMES**: “*Mentally, I was definitely lost. I just did not know how long the pool was going to be closed. The uncertainty of not knowing when this is going to end and being completely out of my control, it was something scary.”*

Gomes decided to do something. He took to his indoor bike trainer and virtually raced against his friends.

Doing something, just as Gomes did, helps you take back some control and leaves you feeling **empowered.**

Taking **positive action** builds resiliency and **mental toughness**. Overcoming adversity makes you a better, more prepared athlete as long as you maintain the right perspective.

### How to Improve as an Athlete when Adversity Strikes:

When adversity strikes, think about two **positive** actions you’ll take to improve as an athlete–no matter your situation.

Commit to improving your game by working on your fitness, strength or mental game.

When should you work on your **mental game**? We suggest during the pre-season, during the season and any time you can’t train due to **adversity**.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Mindset Training During Layoffs**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-stay-active-during-layoffs/)
- [**Mental Game Coach During the Pandemic**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-coach-during-the-pandemic/)
- [**One Strategy That Helps All Athletes While Self-Isolating**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/one-strategy-that-helps-all-athletes-while-self-isolating/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness

**Tags:** Adversity In Sports, Mental Toughness

---

### [How to Keep Shooting After Missing Shots - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-shooting-after-missing-shots/)

**Published:** November 5, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Develop the Shooter’s Mentality

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Develop the Shooter’s Mentality](#Develop_the_Shooters_Mentality)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

In sports psychology, we find that a lot of athletes struggle with **confidence** after **making mistakes**–especially after missing a shot or other performance indicator in a competition.

These athletes struggle with a fear of making **mistakes** and tend to choke up when under pressure in games or matches. As a result, these athletes tend to play defensively and ultimately hurt their performance.

As an athlete, you’ll want to develop the **shooter’s mentality** to encourage you to keep going and striving for success, even when you make mistakes in competition.

Learn more to discover how to retain [**confidence in your shot, even after misses:**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAFm1MSZYAQ "confidence in your shot, even after misses:")

**Video on Developing a Shooters Mentality**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**When Missing Shots Early in Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/missing-shots-early/)
- [**Helping Basketball Players Adopt the Shooter’s Mindset**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-basketball-players-adopt-the-shooters-mindset/)
- [**Golfers Who Are Haunted By Their Last Shot Or Hole…**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/golfers-who-are-haunted-by-their-last-shot-or-hole/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Coping with Mistakes, Shooters Mentality

---

### [How to Improve Your Practice Mindset - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-your-practice-mindset/)

**Published:** December 10, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Improve Your Intensity and Focus in Practice 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Improve Your Intensity and Focus in Practice](#Improve_Your_Intensity_and_Focus_in_Practice)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

In **sports psychology**, we find that a lot of athletes struggle with maintaining the same **intensity** in practice that they have in games.

While it is good to be a “gamer” and perform your best in competition, this can also hurt your practice mindset if you are unable to **improve your skills** during practice. As an athlete, you’ll want to learn to develop a motivated practice mindset so that you can make the most of your practices and outshine your past performance in the next competition.

Learn more to discover how to you can keep your **intensity** up and [**create objectives that improve your focus:**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgJM0F2h8lo "create objectives that improve your focus:")

**Video on Having Consistent Intensity**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Athletes Who Are Stuck in a Practice Mindset**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-stuck-in-a-practice/)
- [**Gymnastics Psychology: Stuck In A Practice Mindset**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/gymnastics-psychology-stuck-in-a-practice-mindset/)
- [**Sport Psychology Podcast: Practice and Performance Mindsets**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sport-psychology-podcast-practice-and-performance-mindsets/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Motivation in Sports, Practice Mindset, Practice to Competition

---

### [Mindset Training During Layoffs](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-stay-active-during-layoffs/)

**Published:** November 13, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Motivation During Adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/11-11-SR-large.jpg)

## Stay Motivated in Adversity

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Stay Motivated in Adversity](#Stay_Motivated_in_Adversity)
    - [For example, if you had a second-degree ankle sprain, you may have many questions regarding your training:](#For_example_if_you_had_a_second-degree_ankle_sprain_you_may_have_many_questions_regarding_your_training)
    - [How to Train your Mind and Body:](#How_to_Train_your_Mind_and_Body)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

How do you feel and what do you do when your training regimen is disrupted?

Injuries, illnesses, inclement weather, facility shutdowns and vacations are some circumstances that can disrupt an athlete’s training or competing.

**Uncontrollable circumstances**, such as an injury, can spur several thoughts that create **anxiety** for an athlete and hurt their **confidence**.

### For example, if you had a second-degree ankle sprain, you may have many questions regarding your training:

- When can I resume training?
- Will my season be over?
- Am I going to fall behind my teammates who are still training?
- Will a couple of weeks off affect my strength and conditioning?
- Will my skills decline? Will my timing be off?
- How will I be able to catch up to my teammates and how long will it take before I can compete?

These issues are only augmented in the current state of the world due to the global pandemic that prevents many athletes from completing their normal training routines.

When you focus on the things you cannot do because of an uncontrollable circumstance, you will feel lost and helpless.

When your training is interrupted because of an unforeseen circumstance, you can still do something to stay physically and mentally active.

Case in point, the coronavirus has turned the world upside down and has left athletes to face many unknowns. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted training and competing for every athlete throughout the world.

The Olympics were pushed back, international competitions were halted, professional sports seasons were postponed and many college, high school and youth sports were cancelled.

Some athletes were left feeling lost and trapped in their homes without their daily training regimen, while other athletes found creative ways to train that were exciting and **empowering**.

For example, twenty-five-year-old Adam Brady, center for the American Hockey League’s Stockton Heat, had his season interrupted by the pandemic. Despite not being able to scrimmage with his teammates on the ice, Brady stayed active by turning to new methods that he may never have considered before.

**BRADY**: “*It’s given me time to do more research with nutrition and get into yoga, a lot of mobility and stretching.*“

We have learned from the pandemic that **adversity** can strike at any moment, causing a disruption of training. No matter what circumstances, you can always find creative ways to train.

When you focus on what you can do or what you can control, you gain a sense of **empowerment**, build confidence and become a more well-rounded athlete.

### How to Train your Mind and Body:

Remember, there is always something you can do to improve your game when you are not practicing or playing:

- If you can’t run, you can learn relaxation techniques.
- If you are injured, you can visualize performing in a competition.
- If you are stuck indoors during a snowstorm, you can do weight training.
- If you can’t practice, you can work on flexibility.

This is also a good time to look into **mental training** as well, even when you’re not practicing or playing. Be creative with ways to improve your game even when not practicing.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/staying-motivated-in-your-sport/)[**Mindset Tips for Playoffs**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-tips-for-playoffs/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-deal-with-stress/)[**What’s the Best Mindset for Playoffs?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-your-playoff-mindset/)
- [**Get the Mental Edge. Train Like an Elite Athlete.**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/get-the-mental-edge-train-like-an-elite-athlete/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Preparation

**Tags:** Adversity In Sports, Anxiety for Athletes, Mental Preparation in Sports

---

### [Why It's Okay for Athletes to Fail](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-its-okay-for-athletes-to-fail/)

**Published:** November 19, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Perfectionist in the Game](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Mistakes-1.jpg)

## How to Avoid the Perfectionist Mindset

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Avoid the Perfectionist Mindset](#How_to_Avoid_the_Perfectionist_Mindset)
    - [Even the best athletes in the world are not immune to mistakes:](#Even_the_best_athletes_in_the_world_are_not_immune_to_mistakes)
    - [How to Avoid the Perfectionist Mindset:](#How_to_Avoid_the_Perfectionist_Mindset-2)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Fearless Athlete](#The_Fearless_Athlete)

**Mistakes and mishaps** are an inescapable part of all sports.

No matter how hard you try to avoid them, errors will happen during competitions.

### Even the best athletes in the world are not immune to mistakes:

–Pro tennis players hit unforced errors late in matches.
–MLB baseball players strike out with runners in scoring position.
–WNBA and NBA basketball players miss shots late in close games.
–PGA and LPGA golfers miss 5-foot putts that lead to double or triple bogeys.
–Elite gymnasts step out of bounds and miss sticking their landings in big competitions.

Mistakes are not an indication that you lack talent as an athlete or that you cannot win the game.

The real mistake is when athletes believe that they should be able to avoid mistakes entirely. Whether you like it or not, mistakes are a part of the game and a part of being an athlete. **Perfectionism** is an unhealthy and unachievable standard.

When you believe that you can achieve perfection, the mistakes that you will inevitably make will have a greater negative impact on your performance.

In other words, perfectionism is counter-productive to peak performance.

When you are a player with a **perfectionist mindset**, you become fearful of making mistakes. Your fear creates an anxiety that pulls your focus away from what you should do and causes you to focus on what you should not do.

You compete cautiously (hesitant to make a throw), play it safe (pass up scoring opportunities) or avoid taking risks (play not to lose).

When you have a perfectionist mindset or **fear of making mistakes** you may fall into slumps and performance ruts.

Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has established himself as one of the premier players in the NFL.

In 2017, Butker set a record for most points by a rookie kicker. In the early part of the 2020 season, Butker has struggled making extra points, converting on only 19 of 24 chances through seven games.

Even though Butker has made some mistakes, he has maintained his same approach to his game: focusing on being the best kicker he can be instead of trying to be perfect.

BUTKER: “Whether it’s 2017 and I’m going on that streak or now when I’m missing some extra points, every day I’d like to think I’m working just as hard to get better and be the best kicker I can be… It’s only a failure if you don’t learn from it and you don’t improve it.”

Butker’s approach is a highly effective method to avoid the **perfectionist mindset** and focus on being the best athlete you can be every day.

Peak performance is the result of hard work and improvement.

### How to Avoid the Perfectionist Mindset:

Begin questioning any ideals you have about the need to be perfect. Does it work for you in competition?

Break down how **perfectionism** has hurt your performance: high expectations, easily frustrated with mistakes, stuck in a practice mindset, etc. How do these help you?

Use an improvement mindset or “growth” mindset, which can help you feel less pressure to be perfect by learning from mistakes and loses.

And give yourself the luxury of **making mistakes** during competition so you can move on without the monkey on your back.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**All or None Thinking: One Trap For Perfectionists**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/all-or-none-thinking-one-trap-for-perfectionists/)
- [**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Fearless Athlete 

![The Fearless Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/fearless-athlete-small-1.jpg)

For the last two decades, I’ve been working with athletes and helping them optimize their physical ability by teaching them the secrets of top performing athletes. Now, you too can **learn how to regain that child-like fearless attitude.**

**Mental toughness is what separates the winner** from the loser in any competition. Champion athletes train hard in practice, perform without fear in competition, and trust their skills in crunch-time.

**The Fearless Athlete program** is ideal for any athlete that wants to overcome fear of failure and uncover inhibiting perfectionistic traits; or for any coach or parent who wants to teach athletes to perform with trust and freedom in competition.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-fearless-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-fearless-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Fear of Failure, Mental Performance Articles, Perfectionism

**Tags:** Fear of Failure in Sports, Letting Go Of Mistakes In Sports, Perfectionism in Athletes

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### [How to Overcome Adversity for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)

**Published:** December 3, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Adversity in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/12-2-SR-large.jpg)

## Overcoming Adversity Using Mental Toughness 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Overcoming Adversity Using Mental Toughness](#Overcoming_Adversity_Using_Mental_Toughness)
    - [When you know other athletes have been in the same boat, you become less intimidated by what you are facing.](#When_you_know_other_athletes_have_been_in_the_same_boat_you_become_less_intimidated_by_what_you_are_facing)
    - [How to Build Mental Toughness Amid Adversity:](#How_to_Build_Mental_Toughness_Amid_Adversity)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Do your current athletic challenges feel impossible to overcome?

**Adversity** can lead to you feeling angry, frustrated and dejected. You feel all alone, lost and can see no way out or end in sight… It seems like nobody knows how you feel or how horrible the situation is.

For example… A high school senior baseball player who is auditioning for college coaches is replaced in the starting lineup: “I will never get a scholarship if I am not playing. If I don’t get any financial assistance, I won’t be able to go to college.”

Or a volleyball player who put in a lot of off-season strength and conditioning training develops tendonitis in her shoulder: “I worked harder than ever and now my season is ruined. Even a few weeks off will hurt my game. I wasted all that time training this summer when I could have been hanging out with my friends.”

Or a college tennis player who feels dejected while going through a 5-match losing streak: “I’ve never played this bad in my life. My coach is disappointed in me. My parents are mad at me. My teammates are talking behind my back. I just want to quit.”

Clearly, all these athletes are going through some adversity in varying degrees. Though adversity is common among all athletes, each athlete experiences adversity in different ways.

In other words, **adversity** is a personal experience; the adversity you face is not bigger or worse than someone else’s adverse circumstances.

To **overcome adversity**, you want to understand that no matter what you are facing, many athletes have faced similar situations and some of those athletes have triumphed over those circumstances.

### When you know other athletes have been in the same boat, you become less intimidated by what you are facing.

And every adverse situation you have experienced in your personal life and athletic life has helped you grow the **mental toughness** that you can draw upon to overcome your current circumstances. The key to overcoming is not based on the adversity you face, but via mental toughness.

Mental toughness is knowing you always can find a way through adversity by taking the right course of action, even if it is having the patience to wait out your adverse situation.

The year 2020 has been an adverse year for all athletes and coaches. The coronavirus, revamped training conditions, abnormal competition venues and precautionary protocols have thrust additional pressures onto athletes who already face a variety of challenging circumstances.

Miami Dolphins special teams coordinator Danny Crossman explained how your history of **overcoming obstacles** and considering examples of other athletes overcoming similar adversity can give you the mental strength and **confidence** to succeed in dealing with your current situation.

**CROSSMAN**: “*The more that you can have a history and recognize a history of guys having to overcome some things, you feel better when those things do come along, that you’re going to be able to overcome them.*“

When you can identify examples in your life of overcoming obstacles, it provides proof that you can deal with your current situation.

Mentally tough athletes look for an answer to **overcome challenges** instead of feeling helpless about the problem.

### How to Build Mental Toughness Amid Adversity:

Build your resiliency resume – Make a list of relevant situations you overcame and how you overcame those circumstances.

Identifying with past challenges that you successfully overcame helps you face future adversity with a **mentally tough mindset**.

Look for examples of athletes you know who faced similar situations and how they were able to overcome these challenges.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Managing Your Emotions When Adversity Hits**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-your-emotions-when-adversity-hits/)
- [**How to Mentally Prepare for Adversity**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-prepare-for-adversity/)
- [**Don’t Let Adversity Affect Your Game in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/dont-let-adversity-affect-your-game-in-sports/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

**Tags:** Adversity In Sports, Confident Athlete, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Why Athletes Worry too Much About What Others Think - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-athletes-worry-too-much-about-what-others-think/)

**Published:** December 16, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Avoid Outcome Thinking.

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Avoid Outcome Thinking.](#Avoid_Outcome_Thinking)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

Do you or your athletes worry too much about what others think of your performance?

Athletes often get preoccupied with what we call “**outcome thinking**,” and play too safely or cautiously as a result. One way you might think about the outcome is worrying about disappointing others if you make mistakes…

In this week’s sports psychology video, you’ll learn the skills to **focus your attention** on what really matters during the game and [**avoid worrying about what others think about your mistakes.**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMSEj0wp6xM "avoid worrying about what others think about your mistakes.")

**Watch this sports psychology video below:**

**Video on Focusing your Attention in the Right Place**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Do You Worry About What Others Think?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-worry-about-what-others-think/)
- [**How Not to Worry About What Others Think on the Golf Course**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/golf-podcast-worrying-about-what-others-think-on-the-golf-course/)
- [**Sports Psychology Podcast: How to Stop Worrying What Others Think**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-psychology-podcast-how-to-stop-worrying-what-others-think/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Letting Go Of Mistakes In Sports, Worry About the Competition, Worry about what Others Think

---

### [Don't Let Adversity Affect Your Game in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/dont-let-adversity-affect-your-game-in-sports/)

**Published:** January 3, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## The Sports Psychology Podcast

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Are you an athlete who struggles with adversity or **fear of failure** in competition?

Many athletes spend too much time dwelling on their **mistakes**, feeling that past mistakes define their future play.

When too much pressure is placed on winning, rather than on **improvement**, sports can start feeling like work rather than fun, especially for sports kids.

Dr. Cohn speaks with basketball Coaches Jim Huber and Charlie Miller on how athletes can work through their mistakes and bounce back from adversity in their play.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Managing Your Emotions When Adversity Hits**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/managing-your-emotions-when-adversity-hits/)
- [**How to Overcome Adversity for Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)
- [**How to Mentally Prepare for Adversity**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-mentally-prepare-for-adversity/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Adversity In Sports, Letting Go Of Mistakes In Sports

---

### [Quarterback Jalen Hurts Ready to Compete, Even on the Bench](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/quarterback-jalen-hurts-ready-to-compete-even-on-the-bench/)

**Published:** January 2, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Being Prepared When You're Benched](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/12-30-SR-large.jpg)

## Prepare Like a Starter For When Your Moment Comes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Prepare Like a Starter For When Your Moment Comes](#Prepare_Like_a_Starter_For_When_Your_Moment_Comes)
    - [Don’t Devalue Yourself](#Dont_Devalue_Yourself)
    - [How to Be Ready when your Number is Called:](#How_to_Be_Ready_when_your_Number_is_Called)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How has your **motivation** been affected when spending long periods of time sitting on the bench?

Some athletes work their butts off to prove they deserve more playing time. These athletes stay late after practice, hustle during scrimmages, give max effort during drills, work hard to improve their conditioning and put in the time to improve their technical skills.

Other athletes view sitting on the bench as a sign they are “**not good enough**” or “not talented.” Rather than proving themselves, these athletes find it difficult to stay **motivated**, and they eventually give up on themselves.

### Don’t Devalue Yourself

When you devalue yourself as an athlete or fail to see yourself as a significant member of a team, you hold back in practice. When you lack motivation, your level of **preparation** and work **intensity** suffer.

Then, when you are suddenly thrown into a competition, you feel overwhelmed. When you don’t do the work, you will lack the **confidence** to compete to the best of your abilities. You are fearful of falling flat on your face. You compete cautiously and try to minimize mistakes instead of making the most of your opportunity.

Being a backup doesn’t mean you are inactive. Being on the sidelines doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still have a **competitive mindset**.

One example of a backup having a competitive mindset is Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Hurts was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft and has backed up Carson Wentz, who most considered to be the franchise quarterback in Philadelphia.

Hurts was thrust into the starting role with four games remaining in the 2020 season. In his first game as a starter, Hurts led the Eagles to a 24-21 victory over the Division leading New Orleans Saints.

Philadelphia defensive end Brandon Graham praised Hurts’ preparedness, competitiveness and **[high level of ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tag/motivation-in-sports/)**[**motivation**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tag/motivation-in-sports/).

**GRAHAM**: “*You can tell when a guy comes in and he starts having success, he’s been ready, he’s been waiting on his moment, he’s been making sure he’s sharpening his sword until his moment came and that’s exactly what you get. When he wasn’t in, he was supportive, he was out there working hard, out there trying to beat us every day and I think you started to see flashes of him getting better every day he was out there.*“

Just because you are sitting on the bench doesn’t mean you’ll be there forever. Hurts prepared, knowing his time would come eventually, and he worked hard in preparation for that moment.

All athletes are **competitive** athletes, whether you are in a starter role or a backup role. Fostering your **competitive mindset** is critical to keep your mind in the game at all times.

### How to Be Ready when your Number is Called:

How should I prepare as if I am a starter? What parts of my game should I focus on during practice and training? How should I mentally prepare for competition?

Be mentally and physically ready when your number is called. Support your teammates and embrace the chance to shine.

When you have a **positive mindset** about your role, you maintain a high level of **motivation** to prepare to the utmost of your abilities and feel more valued as a member of your team.

Want more **[football psychology articles](https://www.footballpsychologyus.com/category/football-psychology-articles/)?**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Do You Or Your Team Have The Comeback Mindset?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)
- [**How to Grow Competition Confidence** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [**How Preparation Boosts Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [Achieve Proactive Confidence for a Healthy Life Balance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/achieve-proactive-confidence-for-a-healthy-life-balance/)

**Published:** January 10, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## The Sports Psychology Podcast

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Are you an athlete who struggles to maintain a healthy balance between your daily life and your role as an athlete?

Many athletes feel a lot of pressure to reach high achievements in their sport and, as a result, lack a healthy balance between their sport and other hobbies that they enjoy.

When there is too much pressure on sports, many athletes begin to struggle with outcome thinking and can become overcome with challenges or adversity.

Dr. Cohn speaks with mental coach Frederic Merelle about positive psychology and how in times of adversity, maintaining a healthy sport and life balance can help athletes keep proactive confidence in their game.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How to Use Proactive Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/proactive-confidence/)
- [**How to Grow Confidence Proactively**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-confidence-proactively/)
- [**Proactive vs. Reactive Self-Confidence – Webinar 2**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/proactive-vs-reactive-self-confidence-in-sports-webinar-2/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Adversity In Sports, Confidence in Sports Tips

---

### [Trust and Confidence are Complementary](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/trust-and-confidence-are-complementary-to-top-performance/)

**Published:** January 14, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![effort in basketball](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/10-15-basketball-large.jpg)

## How to Build Trust and Confidence in your Game

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Build Trust and Confidence in your Game](#How_to_Build_Trust_and_Confidence_in_your_Game)
    - [Point Guard Ben Simmons Uses Trust and Confidence to Boost his Performance](#Point_Guard_Ben_Simmons_Uses_Trust_and_Confidence_to_Boost_his_Performance)
    - [How to Build Trust and Confidence:](#How_to_Build_Trust_and_Confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

**Confidence** and **trust** in your skills go hand-in-hand.

Without confidence, you won’t believe in your ability to perform under pressure. Without developing trust in your skills, you won’t have confidence heading into a competition.

So, which comes first, trust or confidence?

And how do you develop these **mental skills** to allow you to perform at your peak?

Let’s examine the **mental skills** of **confidence** and **trust**:

What is **Confidence**?

1. Believing you have the physical and mental attributes to perform a skill.
2. Having the belief you can develop needed skills through training and practice.
3. Believing in your ability to perform a skill in competition despite pressure.

What is Trust?

1. Knowing that you have put in the physical reps to let it happen and rely on muscle memory during play.
2. Simplifying your game during competition.
3. Being decisive and playing athletically. Staying in the present with little or no thought about the outcome.

As you can see, **confidence** and **trust** influence each other. Let’s simplify. Trust is built through repetition and practice… And confidence is fostered through preparation and recognition of your successes, improvements, and positive qualities.

When you lack trust or confidence, you under-perform or are hesitant in competition.

### Point Guard Ben Simmons Uses Trust and Confidence to Boost his Performance

For example, Philadelphia 76ers point guard Ben Simmons, a four-year veteran, is known for his aggressive defense and passing, but he is also known for his hesitancy in taking outside jump shots, especially from three-point range.

In his first three seasons, Simmons only attempted 3 shots from the 3-point line going 1-for-3. In the first few games of the 2020-21 season, Simmons has attempted two 3-pointers and made both.

Simmons has been practicing and working on his 3-point shot before games and in practices, developing both **confidence and trust** in his shot. It is clear that Simmons’ work has paid off.

Simmons commented on one of his three-pointers this season against the Orlando Magic. With no hesitancy, Simmons just released the ball with no conscious thought or worry about the outcome.

**SIMMONS**: “*I came down \[court\]… Joel (Embiid) threw \[the ball\] to me in the corner, and I let that go. Joel \[Embid\] threw the pass, he knew I was gonna put it up. It was a shot that I work on, corner 3s. I feel comfortable taking it so I knocked it down.*“

Teammate Seth Curry talked about his **confidence** in Simmons’ ability to knock down three-pointers.

**CURRY**: “*I’ve seen him make it in practice, and I know he can knock it down. Especially from the corner, so it’s just a matter of him doing it in a game and stepping into it with confidence. It didn’t look like there was too much hesitation on the shot, and I expected it to go in, to be honest*.”

When you work on your physical skills, without self-judgment or harsh criticism, you build the needed **trust and confidence** to perform at your peak under the pressure of competition.

### How to Build Trust and Confidence:

Practice, prepare, test your skills, and repeat…

Visualize yourself performing the skill successfully in competition. When you visualize, you imprint those images in your mind and build the **trust and confidence** necessary to be successful in competitions.

Visualize or mentally rehearse yourself playing freely and athletically during your warm-up routine. Get into the mindset that all your practice is behind you and it’s time to just compete.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How Elite Athletes Gain Trust in their Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-gain-trust-in-their-game/)
- [**Have Trust in Your Skills**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)
- [**How to Overcome Lack of Trust in Skills**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-lack-of-trust-in-skills/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Trust in Your Skills for Athletes

---

### [Your Mental Game and Performance Slumps](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/your-mental-game-and-performance-slumps/)

**Published:** January 21, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Focus in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/1-19-SR-large.jpg)

## Develop a Growth Mindset

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Develop a Growth Mindset](#Develop_a_Growth_Mindset)
    - [Change Your Focus](#Change_Your_Focus)
    - [How to Break Out of a Slump:](#How_to_Break_Out_of_a_Slump)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Are you going through a long-term **slump**? Are you holding back or playing tentatively due to your performance slump?

**Slumps** are aggravating, frustrating and unnerving. Sometimes, a slump in one area of your game affects your entire game, further compounding the issue.

For example, you are in the middle of a long slump and each mistake in competition causes you to call into question your abilities as an athlete. You fear continued misses, losses and mistakes.

You don’t want to embarrass yourself or be the reason your team loses. So, you shy away from opportunities… You stop taking shots… You don’t want to take center stage… You perform tentatively.

You overthink everything before, during and after a competition or game. You break down every aspect of your performance and criticize yourself harshly. You lose **confidence**, sell yourself short and think, “I am not a good athlete.” You make a case against yourself by highlighting every mistake you ever made which keeps you stuck in a rut.

How can you break out of a slump?

You can shorten the time you are stuck in a performance slump by changing your focus…

### Change Your Focus

First, **focus** on the process, not the outcome. A basketball player should still shoot without thinking about the results of the shot… A hockey player in a slump should continue to look for opportunities to score instead of fearing missing a shot.

Second, **focus** on other ways you can affect the game or contribute to your team. A basketball player in a shooting slump can look for ways to contribute to his team defensively. A hockey player in a performance slump can help raise the energy of his team by being aggressive on the boards.

Finding ways to contribute to your team will improve your **confidence** and relieve some of the anxiety that contributes to your performance slump.

Golden State Warriors forward Kelly Oubre started out the 2020-21 season in a slump: 0-for-17 from 3-point range and 0-for-31 on non-dunk attempts.

Teammate Steph Curry, one of the best 3-point shooters in NBA history, has been in slumps himself and had a bit of advice for Oubre and other players in slumps.

**CURRY**: “*No matter how \[Oubre\] shoots the ball, he can always find another way to impact the game and eventually, he’s going to figure it out… He can’t lose confidence. He has to take those shots. But he also has to impact the game in other areas that athletically he can do… that’s all you ask for from a guy going through a shooting situation like this until he turns it around.*“

Furthermore, Curry talked about the need to continue to look for open shots and take your shots without overthinking.

**CURRY**: “*The last thing you can do is just stop shooting no matter how frustrated you get.*“

Breaking out of a **slump** requires commitment to a **growth mindset**. A competitive mindset encompasses looking for ways to contribute, making the most of your opportunities and continuing to push forward no matter the circumstances.

A **growth mindset** helps you maintain stable **confidence** along with the knowledge that you will get back on track soon enough.

### How to Break Out of a Slump:

First, don’t start each game by defining yourself as being in a **slump**, as this will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Instead of worrying about parts of your game that are not working, identify 1-2 ways that you can contribute to your team. For example, you might **focus** on helping your team create scoring opportunities, setting the tone by hustling, etc.

Look at every game as a new opportunity for success and growth, rather than a continuation of your slump.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Break Slumps: How to Get Past a Performance Slump**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/break-slumps-how-to-get-past-a-performance-slump/)
- [**Mental Game Tips To Get Past Performance Slumps**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-tips-to-get-past-performance-slumps/)
- [**Breaking Through Performance Slumps**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/breaking-performance-slumps/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Boost Focus, Mental Performance Articles, Slump Busting

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Slumps in Sports

---

### [Avoid Comparisons to Feel More Confident in Figure Skating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/avoid-comparisons-to-feel-more-confident-in-figure-skating/)

**Published:** January 28, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Figure Skating Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/1-27-Skating-large.jpg)

## Focus on Your Strengths

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Focus on Your Strengths](#Focus_on_Your_Strengths)
    - [Focus on Improving Yourself](#Focus_on_Improving_Yourself)
    - [How to Side-Step the Comparison Trap:](#How_to_Side-Step_the_Comparison_Trap)
    - [Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!](#Discover_Mental_Strategies_For_Peak_Performance)

Are you struggling with **confidence** as a figure skater? Do you feel other skaters are passing you by as they perform bigger skills and jumps in point value?

Figure skating is a sport of both power and finesse.

Yet many skaters are overly focused on the power aspect of the sport, such as performing high-value jumps. When you see other skaters performing triple jumps and you feel you are below the curve on these technical skills, your **confidence** will suffer.

When you compare yourself to skaters performing advanced jumps, you will feel “less than adequate.”

Comparison is the enemy to **confidence** and success. When you compare yourself to skaters starting from higher point values, it is demotivating. You wonder, “Why can’t I land a triple? I will never be as good as…”

You become anxious before you even take the ice. You feel the need to pull off the “perfect” routine to score close to skaters performing higher value elements.

When you are anxious, performing a clean routine is even more difficult. Focusing on other skaters prevents you from performing your best and hurts your confidence.

**Comparison** detracts from work ethic. When you feel “not as good as,” your work habits suffer. When you feel you are not as talented as another skater, you are less motivated to work hard in practice and take risks to develop new skills.

The key to overcoming the **comparison trap** is to put the focus back on you. **Confidence** is built by emphasizing your talents, strengths and skills. You can still work on improving, becoming stronger and working on higher-level jumps. The focus should be on you and comparing yourself to how you performed yesterday.

### Focus on Improving Yourself

When you focus on yourself and strive for continuous improvement, you build **confidence**, increase **motivation** and improve at a faster rate. When you skate your routines, you exude confidence through your posture and facial expressions. You score higher as a result.

A finessed, sound, energetic and clean routine will score higher than a sloppy, mistake-ridden, advanced-skill routine all the time.

Jason Brown, who placed sixth at the U.S. Championships last Olympic season, was in third place after the short program at the 2021 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Though Brown’s performance was clean and technically sound, he knows he needs to add quads to compete at the highest level.

Brown discussed his thoughts on his place in a sport dominated by quadruple jumps.

> “I wish I could be that person that can do multiple quads and just \[crush\] it out there. I \[crush\] it in a different way, but I’m still obviously pushing my technical content as well, especially leading into the Olympic year. At the same time, I’m trying to find that balance where I don’t lose the integrity of the programs and the spark that makes my skating so special.”

Just like Brown, you can crush it in different ways. You should focus on your strengths, whether it is your finesse, speed on spins, tight positions or energy.

When you focus on your strengths, it will show up in your score.

### How to Side-Step the Comparison Trap:

In practice, compare yourself to your previous week of practice. Work to sharpen your strengths and add new skills and jumps.

During competition be the best version of yourself and think about your strengths. Focusing on what you have, your strengths, will lead to your best performances.

---

### Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-figure-skater-small-2.jpg)You (or your athlete) might be the most skilled figure skater and train harder or longer than anyone else, but if you can’t take your practice performance to competition, you simply will not reach your true potential in figure skating.

Learn the top 8 mental game lessons to improve focus, composure, and confidence!

**[The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)**

Discover proven mental game secrets to unstoppable confidence in practice and competition.

- **Figure Skaters**: Get the mental edge by learning how to take control of your confidence, mentally prepare for competition, and perform with composure under pressure.
- **Coaches**: Boost your figure skater’s confidence using simple, proven mental strategies.
- **Parents**: Help boost your athlete’s performance. Don’t let their mind hold them back any longer.
- **Mental Coaches**: Learn a proven system for helping your athletes boost mental toughness.

**[The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)**

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Figure Skating, High Expectations in Figure Skating

---

### [How to Stay Composed When You Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)

**Published:** February 1, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

### Be a Composed Athlete

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Be a Composed Athlete](#Be_a_Composed_Athlete)
- [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
- [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

Do you struggle to maintain your **composure** after making mistakes in a game?

For many athletes, **mistakes** will linger long after they are made, causing you to dwell on past errors to the point that they affect your current level of play.

Often times, it’s not the mistake itself that causes your level of play to diminish; rather, it is your memory or dwelling on a mistake that hurts your performance. When you dwell on **mistakes** you give them energy and allow them to fester in your mind.

In this week’s sports psychology video, you’ll learn skills that will help you to let go of past **mistakes** and focus on the present moment of your gameplay.

**Watch this sports psychology video below:**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Composure in Sports, Mistakes in Sports

---

### [Tarik Skubal Demonstrates Confidence-Building](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tarik-skubal-demonstrates-confidence-building/)

**Published:** February 4, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Confidence in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/2-4-SR-large.jpg)

## Build Proactive Confidence to Improve Your Game

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Build Proactive Confidence to Improve Your Game](#Build_Proactive_Confidence_to_Improve_Your_Game)
    - [Next-level Performance Demands Superior Confidence](#Next-level_Performance_Demands_Superior_Confidence)
    - [How to Have Proactive Confidence:](#How_to_Have_Proactive_Confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How would you grade your **confidence** over the course of the past athletic season? Would you give yourself an A? B? C+?

How much more could you accomplish if you bumped up your **confidence** grade?

Unfortunately, a lack of confidence holds many athletes back and creates feelings of frustration and disappointment.

One of the most common questions we receive from our surveys is “How can I improve my confidence?”

One respondent noted how frustrated she has become due to her plateauing over the course of the past year.

From the beginning of preseason, you might have felt, “This is the year. A brand new start. I’m going to break out this year.” You worked hard. You felt good in your first few competitions but didn’t see the drastic improvements you expected.

Your **confidence** wavered and the thoughts of “I knew I couldn’t do this” flooded in your mind. Your level of effort in training dropped off and your performance leveled off. Your coaches and parents kept telling you that you are talented but just need a little bit of confidence… But how?

### Next-level Performance Demands Superior **Confidence**

You already know that confidence is important, but it doesn’t happen by chance nor is it developed overnight.

To improve your confidence, you need to actively build your confidence.

For example, Detroit Tigers’ left-hander Tarik Skubal is brimming with **confidence** as he fights for a spot in the 2021 starting rotation.

In his debut season last year, Skubal pitched in 8 games with a 5.63 ERA, 37 strikeouts and 11 walks in 32 innings.

**SKUBAL**: “*\[The players on the team\] are extremely talented and very gifted players. I need to push myself even harder and especially not get complacent. As far as the mentality, I’m going to attack spring training the same way I always have, and that’s just to go out there and build innings up and making sure you’re healthy from the ground up… I try not to focus on winning a rotation spot. I’m just trying to go out and control what I can control and let everything take care of itself.*“

You can hear the confident tone from Skubal’s statement. Skubal provides some “how-to build confidence” tips.

“Attack spring training” – **Confidence** is built through preparation.

“Making sure you are healthy from the ground up” – **Confidence** is improved by working on all aspects of performance: physical, technical and mental.

“Focus on winning a rotation spot” – **Confidence** grows by keeping the focus on you, your strengths, your abilities and your successes.

“Control what I can control” – **Confidence** remains stable when you focus on aspects you can control: effort, focus and mindset.

As mentioned earlier, to have more **confidence**, you need to take responsibility for feeling confident.

Plenty of resources are available to you to learn effective confidence-building strategies… But you need to take the first step and commit to taking control of your SELF-CONFIDENCE!

### How to Have Proactive Confidence:

First, understand the confidence busters, such as doubt, making comparisons and high expectations. Work to manage the confidence busters as these will hold you back.

Next, focus on your plan for “Being healthy from the ground up.” What will you do to improve your physical and technical game?

Be sure to focus on your talents and strengths every day. Don’t disqualify what you bring to your team or sport and past experience or success.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Do You Or Your Team Have The Comeback Mindset?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)
- [**How to Grow Competition Confidence** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [**How Preparation Boosts Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Boost Confidence In Athletes, Confidence in Sports Tips

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### [Mental Skill of Visualization for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skill-of-visualization-for-athletes/)

**Published:** February 15, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Beat The Yips in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Beat-The-Yips-in-Sports.jpg)

## Mental Rehearsal Tips for Athletes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Mental Rehearsal Tips for Athletes](#Mental_Rehearsal_Tips_for_Athletes)
    - [These strong images set you up for failure.](#These_strong_images_set_you_up_for_failure)
    - [How to Visualize Successful Competitive Performances](#How_to_Visualize_Successful_Competitive_Performances)
        - [Related Articles](#Related_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

How many times have you imagined failing, making mistakes, or losing in a competition?

How many times have you **visualized performing at your peak**, succeeding, or achieving a personal best in a competition?

Chances are you see images of failing more often than succeeding. Negative images seem to flow easily and freely into your mind.

Negative internal images are accompanied by negative self-talk and unproductive emotions, intensifying those images and bringing about the results you fear might happen.

Negative self-fulfilling prophecies occur when you talk yourself into negative outcomes. The negative images you see feel real. The negative emotions are intense.

For example, in baseball… You can vividly see yourself in the batter’s box with the bases loaded in the ninth inning of a tied game. You can feel your shoulders tighten.

You see your parents in the stands as they nervously look on. You can feel the pressure and you see being blown away by a baseball straight down the heart of the plate for strike three. You feel the disappointment of your teammates as you head back to the dugout. The frustration feels real.

In basketball… You feel the nerves heading into the fourth quarter of a playoff basketball game. You vividly see yourself on the foul line with the opposing fans frantically waving their arms and yelling, “MISS!” You can feel your heart pounding and the sweat pouring off your forehead.

You see yourself hitting the front end of the rim and missing the first foul shot with your team trailing by two.

### These strong images set you up for failure.

But you can set yourself up for success by actively producing positive images through **visualization**.

Taking an active role in consciously forming successful images can lead to a positive self-fulfilling prophecy.

Visualization is seeing the specific images of a successful outcome (seeing the base hit that scores the winning run or the ball swishing through the hoop to give your team the lead).

Visualization is actively feeling positive emotions (confidence, calm and joy) throughout the imaged experience.

Visualization is actively creating the full successful experience using all your senses.

**Visualization** is experiencing, in vivid detail, what you want to happen and how you want to feel.

In an interview, 21-time NCAA All-American swimmer Erika Brown espoused the benefits of visualization and its contribution to her success.

**BROWN**: “*In practice we do a lot of video work and I love just looking at that, comparing it to other people, comparing it to my other swims and then using that to visualize for my races. I definitely use visualization before anytime that I race and just in life. I think it’s important if you set goals and you want to achieve something, you have to see yourself there.*”

**When you visualize**, you imprint those images in your mind. Visualization is like you are training twice, once in physical practice and once in mental practice.

Visualization gives you the boost in confidence that you have the ability to reproduce those successful images.

### How to Visualize Successful Competitive Performances

The key for making visualization a successful positive experience is to include all the senses:

\* What would you see?
\* What would your body feel like as you performed in the competition?
\* What would you smell and taste?
\* What sounds would you hear during the competition?
\* What emotions would you experience?

Visualize within your current skill level. Don’t try to visualize something that you can’t complete successfully in practice at least 7 of 10 times.

---

#### Related Articles

- [**How to Improve Visualization in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-your-visualization-skills/)
- [**Sports Visualization: The Secret Weapon of Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-visualization-athletes/)
- [**Why Relaxation and Visualization Doesn’t Work for Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-relaxation-and-visualization-doesnt-work-for-athletes/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Preparation

**Tags:** Visualization in Sports

---

### [Tom Brady and Mental Toughness](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tom-brady-and-mental-toughness/)

**Published:** February 18, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental Toughness Tom Brady](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Be-Ready-to-Enter-The-Game-Like-Harmon-1.jpg)

## How to Improve Mental Toughness in Football

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Improve Mental Toughness in Football](#How_to_Improve_Mental_Toughness_in_Football)
    - [Brady’s mental toughness has contributed to his longevity and success in football.](#Bradys_mental_toughness_has_contributed_to_his_longevity_and_success_in_football)
    - [How to Build Mental Toughness](#How_to_Build_Mental_Toughness)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Toughness](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Toughness)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How do you feel when your coach runs a long, strenuous practice? When your coach has you run 20-30 minutes of sprints after you just trained for two hours.

Many athletes have practices they dread because those sessions are physically and mentally draining.

You have been in a situation where your coach presents you with a challenge. As your coach explains what the challenge entails, you feel a wave of anxiety overtake you.

You question your ability to get through the session. You hold back effort because you just want to make it through, seeing no benefit from the difficult sessions. You are angry at your coach for all this unnecessary training.

Nonetheless, you notice that some of your teammates seem excited and ready to embrace the difficult practices. You wonder why you don’t have the same type of motivation.

The difference is your mindset. You can view difficult training sessions as opportunities to grow and become a better, tougher athlete. Or you can view difficult training sessions as punishment or purposeless.

Your **mental toughness** determines if you embrace difficult training or just give enough effort to make it through.

One of the greatest competitors of our time is 7-time Super Bowl champion quarterback Tom Brady. Brady is a strong competitor for many reasons, one important characteristic being his mental toughness.

### Brady’s mental toughness has contributed to his longevity and success in football.

**BRADY***: “I found that challenges bring out the best in me, today I think back on them as gifts. I fought hard to get to where I am today, which means I know what it means to fight hard. When you’re in a Super Bowl game and your team is three touchdowns down and the clock is running, mental toughness is what makes the difference at the end.”*

**Brady’s mental toughness** comes from his effort and dedication to being prepared.

**BRADY***: “If you want to perform at the highest level, you have to prepare at the highest level mentally.”*

Athletes are not held back by lack of physical skills, but their mentality. Top athletes can push forward through the physical challenges and make the most of their abilities.

Mindset affects your ability to prepare fully. When you choose to push through hard training sessions, you build mental toughness.

### How to Build Mental Toughness

You have free will to choose your mindset when challenged by with hard training sessions. Look for opportunities to build mental toughness and grow as an athlete.

When you are given a challenge set from your coach, tell yourself, “This is my mental training set.”

Repeat the phrase throughout the session to keep you motivated. Not only will this mindset sustain your effort, but it will also build the mental toughness that you can rely on when competitions become challenging.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Toughness

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-adversity-for-athletes/)[**What’s the Best Mindset for Playoffs?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-build-your-playoff-mindset/)
- [**Athletes Who Are Labeled as Superstars**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-are-labeled-as-superstars/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-in-pressure-situations/)[**Can The Eagles Beat The Patriots with Mental Toughness?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/can-the-eagles-beat-the-patriots-with-mental-toughness/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [3 Keys to Finishing Strong in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-keys-to-finishing-strong-in-competition/)

**Published:** February 25, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Finishing Strong in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/basketball-confidence-booster.jpg)

## How to Close Out Games and Maintain Leads

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Close Out Games and Maintain Leads](#How_to_Close_Out_Games_and_Maintain_Leads)
    - [When a team takes its foot off the gas, they allow the other team back in the game.](#When_a_team_takes_its_foot_off_the_gas_they_allow_the_other_team_back_in_the_game)
    - [3 Keys to Closing Out the Competition:](#3_Keys_to_Closing_Out_the_Competition)
    - [How to Finish Strong:](#How_to_Finish_Strong)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Edge:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Edge)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Are you confident in your ability to close out games? Or do you become fearful and play sloppily when you have a lead?

Whether your sport is hockey, soccer, football, or gymnastics, you must have an aggressive mindset to close out a good competition.

Many athletes become nervous and fearful they will suffer a meltdown despite having a big lead. The fears of losing and embarrassment are overwhelming for some athletes.

Let’s look at a few examples…

A tennis player is up by three games in the final set. She has been aggressive the first two sets, hitting a good number of aces. With a big lead in the last set, she served cautiously, fearful of double faulting.

Her soft serves allowed her opponent to return powerful shots down the line for winners. She ended up allowing her opponent to catch up and take the lead.

A hockey team with a two-goal lead with five minutes left in the game. Instead of playing aggressively and closing out the game, the team played defensively.

The defensive style and a few sloppy passes caused the team to give up two easy goals and tie at the end of regulation. Sloppy play is the result of cautious play. When you play not to lose, you make uncharacteristic mistakes and allow your opponents back into the game.

Professional sports are no different.

### When a team takes its foot off the gas, they allow the other team back in the game.

The Philadelphia Sixers played a game against the Houston Rockets taking a 96-79 lead into the fourth quarter. Little by little, the Sixers allowed the Rockets to close the gap and the Sixers squeaked by with only a 5-point victory.

Sixers center Joel Embiid commented on the team’s sloppy play heading down the stretch.

EMBIID: *“\[The Rockets\] started making some shots. We had a couple of turnovers, especially me. We had a stretch where at least six possessions in a row we lost possession and they came back down on the other end and started making shots. We have to learn to close games when needed. We relaxed. There’s a lot to learn, but we got the win.”*

### 3 Keys to Closing Out the Competition:

1\. Knowing the difference between aggressive and risky. When you have the lead, play to stretch your lead not protect it. You still should play aggressively, without taking excessive risks that could lead to sloppy play.

2\. Focusing on your game. You may be tempted to focus on your opponent making a comeback. Stay focused on your plan and your strategy to finish strong.

3\. Paying attention to the process and not the score. When you focus on the score, you are focused on the potential outcome of the game. You play not to lose instead of focusing on the opportunities to maintain or extend the lead.

### How to Finish Strong:

Practice closing out games. Create mental scenarios in practice where you have a lead heading down the stretch.

For example, if you are a tennis player, create a mental scenario of being up three sets late in a match. Though you see your opponent making a push to climb back in the match, stay focused on each point.

Keep your *“pedal to the medal.”* Challenge yourself to get another goal in hockey, have a strong last rotation in gymnastics, or continue to shoot when you are open in basketball.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Edge:

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tom-brady-and-mental-toughness/)[**How to Perform Well When Leading the Match**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-well-when-leading-the-match/)
- [**Your Mental Game and Performance Slumps**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/your-mental-game-and-performance-slumps/)
- [**Tarik Skubal Demonstrates Confidence-Building**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/tarik-skubal-demonstrates-confidence-building/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness in Sports, Performing well under Pressure

**Tags:** Finishing Strong

---

### [Mental Game Coach During the Pandemic](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-coach-during-the-pandemic/)

**Published:** July 1, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental Game Coach During the Pandemic](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big2.jpg)

## How a Mental Game Coach Can Help You

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How a Mental Game Coach Can Help You](#How_a_Mental_Game_Coach_Can_Help_You)
    - [The truth is you can do something about your circumstances.](#The_truth_is_you_can_do_something_about_your_circumstances)
    - [You can regain a sense of control by taking firm action while faced with adversity.](#You_can_regain_a_sense_of_control_by_taking_firm_action_while_faced_with_adversity)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What can a **Mental Game Coach** do for you during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Many athletes no longer feel like athletes since they are not training or competing.

You may ask, *“Why should I work on my mental game if I’m not competing?”*

During the pandemic is when you need support the most, and a **Mental Game Coach can help you through these tough times.**

The coronavirus is still having a profound impact on athletes and competition.
Athletes have many concerns while dealing with the coronavirus pandemic:

*\* When will training start again?
\* Will the coronavirus keep interrupting my season?
\* Is competing during the pandemic safe?
\* Will I lose out on a college scholarship?
\* I can’t find any way to train from home.
\* If I have to go to school, why is school not allowing sports to compete?
\* I’ve been so anxious at home; I don’t know what to do.
\* I can’t believe my parents won’t let me play when all my friends are playing.*

All the unknowns you are facing can bring about a great deal of anxiety in your athletic and personal lives. Your self-worth, school performance, confidence, and personal relationships are all affected by the circumstances you are facing.

You feel out of control as if there is nothing you can do about your circumstances.

### The truth is you can do something about your circumstances. 

You can take control of your situation and seek advice from professionals trained to help athletes develop mentally and physically.

**A Mental Game Coach** can help you process these questions and improve your mental game so you will be a mentally tougher, more confident, and more empowered athlete when you return to competition.

You will gain **mental toughness** as an athlete to help you overcome future competitive challenges and you will gain mental toughness to help you manage future adversity.

Think of the difficulties facing Olympic hopefuls. Potential Olympians trained for the four years leading up to the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, only to have the games postponed for a year. Now, in 2021, uncertainty still surrounds the Olympic Games.

USA hurdler Cortney Jones is hoping to compete in the 2021 Olympics and is facing similar unknowns as other athletes throughout the U.S.

*\* Will the Olympics be held in 2021?
\* What safeguards will be in place?
\* How should she prepare?
\* Will she be properly trained?*

**JONES**: *“It’s like, how do you prepare for something if you don’t know it’s going to happen? So, you can try to stay on the same regimen, but at the back of your head, if you’re doing all this training and we don’t have any meets, how am I going to be properly prepared?”*

You want a support group in times of challenges, obstacles, and crisis. Working with a Mental Game Coach can help you in a number of areas:

*\* To help you process the uncertainty that you are experiencing.
\* To teach you to manage your time effectively and stay in physical shape.
\* To evaluate your past performances and help set future athletic goals.
\* To help build a strong mental game while experiencing a delay from training.
\* To guide you in developing anxiety management strategies.
\* To assist you to overcome future adversity and build mental toughness.
\* To help you develop a well-rounded life.
\* To teach you to become physically and mentally prepared for when sports resume.*

### You can regain a sense of control by taking firm action while faced with adversity.

**Dealing with Adversity in Tough Times:**

List the obstacles you are facing during the coronavirus. See if you can come up with 1-3 solutions to these obstacles. If you can’t seem to come up with any ideas, seek the help and advice from other sources/professionals that can help you navigate your circumstances.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [The Mindset to Perform at the Next Level](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mindset-to-perform-at-the-next-level/)
- [Expectations vs. Goals for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/expectations-vs-goals-for-athletes/)
- [One Strategy That Helps All Athletes While Self-Isolating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/one-strategy-that-helps-all-athletes-while-self-isolating/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game of Sports, Mental Game Skills, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

**Tags:** Mental Game Coaching

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### [Focus on What You Can Control in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)

**Published:** March 11, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Pre-Match Preparation in Volleyball](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Pre-Match-Preparation-in-Volleyball.jpg)

## How Not to Fixate on Things Outside of Your Control

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Not to Fixate on Things Outside of Your Control](#How_Not_to_Fixate_on_Things_Outside_of_Your_Control)
    - [You cannot control how many minutes your coach plays you in a game, but you can control your effort and focus in practice and your overall attitude.](#You_cannot_control_how_many_minutes_your_coach_plays_you_in_a_game_but_you_can_control_your_effort_and_focus_in_practice_and_your_overall_attitude)
    - [To perform at your peak, you need to be proficient at differentiating between what you can and cannot control.](#To_perform_at_your_peak_you_need_to_be_proficient_at_differentiating_between_what_you_can_and_cannot_control)
    - [Related Articles:](#Related_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

Do you excessively worry before and during competitions?

One component of worry is trying to control variables of performance outside of your direct control.

A few variables outside of your direct control are: getting injured, being benched by your coach, playing against a higher ranked opponent, and competing in poor weather conditions.

For example, focusing on how well your opponent is playing (an aspect outside your control) leads to anxiety and takes the focus off you and your game.

The greatest lesson an athlete can learn is to **control the controllables.**

No matter how minor it may seem, controlling the controllables gives you a sense that you have an impact over your destiny and that your performance is not dictated by outside forces.

### You cannot control how many minutes your coach plays you in a game, but you can control your effort and focus in practice and your overall attitude.

Even if you are suffering from an injury, you are still in control of your attitude, your ability to relax and your overall perspective.

While the 2021 Tokyo Olympics are uncertain, the “control the controllables” mindset is the most valuable tool for all Olympic hopefuls.

Nicole Forrester, a 2008 Olympic Canadian high-jumper and mental performance coach, has helped prepare Canadian athletes for the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Forrester emphasizes the importance of controlling the controllables and letting everything else go.

**FORRESTER**: *“What can’t you control? You can’t control the virus, you can’t control access to a facility, and you can’t control whether the Olympics is a certainty or not, but you treat it as if it is. But you can control your nutrition; you can control your sleep.”*

Forrester stated it is important to know the differences between what you can and cannot control.

Staying focused on the aspects you can control is empowering. Focusing on the controllables gives meaning to all the hours you spent training, the sacrifices you made as an athlete and the dedication of pushing yourself to achieve your goals.

### To perform at your peak, you need to be proficient at differentiating between what you can and cannot control.

**Tip for Controlling Controllables:**

Sometimes athletes are blinded by their circumstances. To bring some clarity and shift your perspective, write down as many variables of performance that are under your control, it doesn’t matter how small or insignificant they may seem to you.

You can control your thinking, how you react to challenges, your preparation, and your nutrition.
You can’t control the weather conditions, the field conditions, officials or judges, or your opponents.

When you find yourself focusing on the things you can’t control, recognize this and refocus.

---

### Related Articles:

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skill-of-visualization-for-athletes/)[**How Athletes Can Control Emotions**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-control-emotions/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)[**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/dont-let-adversity-affect-your-game-in-sports/)[**Control Your Focus to Let Go of Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/control-your-focus-to-let-go-of-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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---

### [Embrace Pressure in Overtime Games](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embrace-pressure-in-overtime-games/)

**Published:** March 18, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![hockey losses](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/9-17-hockey-large-1.jpg)

## How To React Well In High Pressure Situations

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How To React Well In High Pressure Situations](#How_To_React_Well_In_High_Pressure_Situations)
    - [The key to producing in overtime is managing pressure and playing within yourself.](#The_key_to_producing_in_overtime_is_managing_pressure_and_playing_within_yourself)
    - [Managing pressure does not mean eliminating pressure, it means reacting well to pressure situations.](#Managing_pressure_does_not_mean_eliminating_pressure_it_means_reacting_well_to_pressure_situations)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Toughness:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Toughness)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

How do you play under pressure? In your sport, what situations do you find the most stressful?

Playoff games, elimination games and the last minutes of close games are stressful for many athletes. As the importance of the contest is greater, the pressure athletes feel can skyrocket.

Overtime games are particularly stressful for some athletes.

In baseball, the pitcher may feel increased pressure to work out of a jam in extra innings. The pressure could cause him to overthrow and lose command of his pitches.

In golf, pressure can cause a player to over control and try to hit perfect shots, which leads to not hitting the ball as solid or straight.

In basketball, a player feeling pressure in the last minute of a game might force shots instead of looking for an open teammate.

**Reasons for feeling increased pressure in overtime situations:**
 \* You may want to get the game over quickly, instead of patiently waiting for opportunities to score.

\* You might want to be the hero and win the game for the team, instead of getting your teammates involved or playing as a unit.

\* You may feel the team depends upon you to guide the team to victory.

When you feel increased pressure, you play tense, press, and make costly mistakes.

Playing with excessive pressure rarely results in peak performance.

### The key to producing in overtime is managing pressure and playing within yourself.

In the NHL, overtime play is frequent. In a 2021 regular season matchup where the Minnesota Wild faced the Los Angeles Kings, the game was tied 3-3 heading into overtime.

As time was running out in overtime, Minnesota winger Mats Zuccarello threaded a pass between defenders to teammate Matt Dumba. Dumba skillfully deked the goaltender and scored in the last seconds of overtime to give the Wild a 4-3 victory.

The win was the fourth overtime victory by the Wild in the 2021 season and Dumba’s goal broke a franchise record for most career overtime tallies.

Why has Dumba been so successful in overtime?

Dumba doesn’t overthink or try to force his game. Instead, Dumba keeps pressure at bay by playing within himself and focusing on the action as it unfolds on the ice.

**DUMBA**: *“I wasn’t even thinking. I was just focusing on making the right play and not trying to force it. Just so happened that Zuccy was able to find me.”*

### Managing pressure does not mean eliminating pressure, it means reacting well to pressure situations.

Coping with pressure is well within your mental abilities. Learning to maintain just the right range of pressure will help you be on top of your game no matter if it’s a regular season game, overtime or the playoffs.

**How to Manage Pressure in Overtime Games:**

1\. Embrace the pressure as a something that will elevate your game and give your more energy to perform well.

2\. Use breathing, stretching, staying in the moment, and trust in your skills to perform well under pressure.

3\. Play within yourself and try to to force the action while playing in overtime.

Managing pressure is a mental skill that all athletes should have in their toolbox. Contact us for more information about one on one mental coaching if you are not getting the job done in pressure situations.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Toughness:

- [**How to Compete Well in Pressure Moments**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-compete-well-in-pressure-moments/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-keys-to-finishing-strong-in-competition/)[**Is Pressure Your Friend or Foe?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/is-pressure-your-friend-or-foe/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/dont-let-adversity-affect-your-game-in-sports/)[**How to Perform Big in Pressure Moments**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-big-in-pressure-moments/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [What Separates Elite Athletes from the Rest?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)

**Published:** March 25, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Athletes Bounce Back From Defeat](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-Athletes-Bounce-Back-From-Defeat.jpg)

## How Mental Work Takes Athletes to The Next Level

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Mental Work Takes Athletes to The Next Level](#How_Mental_Work_Takes_Athletes_to_The_Next_Level)
    - [The difference-maker that launches athletes to the next level is WORK!](#The_difference-maker_that_launches_athletes_to_the_next_level_is_WORK)
    - [Adding mental skills training to your existing work regimen boosts your performance to a new level and helps you achieve more of your potential.](#Adding_mental_skills_training_to_your_existing_work_regimen_boosts_your_performance_to_a_new_level_and_helps_you_achieve_more_of_your_potential)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How do elite athletes separate themselves from other athletes?

Other athletes define themselves by their limitations, *“I’m shorter than most basketball players,”* *“I’m not as fast as other players on the soccer field,”* or *“I don’t have enough speed on my fastball to play college baseball.”*

When you are focused on limitations or weaknesses, your level of work and preparation will suffer.

Size, ability, and strength are valuable attributes but are not the game-changing factors that make athletes elite.

For example, undersized NFL wide receivers have been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Many tennis players had great careers despite not having overpowering strokes. Athletes have made names for themselves by out-hustling other competitors.

### The difference-maker that launches athletes to the next level is WORK!

Putting in the work is not limited to working hard in practice. Work also includes preparation (diet, flexibility, strength training) and, most importantly, mental work (confidence building, focusing skills, managing stress, etc).

\*When you put in the mental work, you learn technical skills quicker and you are better able to replicate those skills under the pressure of competition.

\*When you put in the mental work, you will maximize your abilities and reach more of your potential.

\*When you put in the mental work, you perform more consistently and at a higher level.

\*When you put in the mental work, you are able to meet the demands of competing at a higher level.

Often, the mental aspects, the factors that contribute most to optimal performance, are neglected.

### Adding mental skills training to your existing work regimen boosts your performance to a new level and helps you achieve more of your potential.

Canadian basketball player Natalie Achonwa is motivated to help Canada win their first ever Olympic medal.

Achonwa will be competing in her third Olympic Games and is doing everything she can to prepare and help Canada reach the podium at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

Even through the adversity brought about by the pandemic, Canada has found methods to build team unity and prepare in every way possible.

**ACHONWA**: *“We did a virtual training camp where we spent about two hours a day on a Zoom call doing everything from team building to mental training with our sports psych, to tactical stuff, watching film, breaking down film. It was a tactical week via Zoom.”*

The Canada Olympic basketball is putting in the work, fully preparing mentally, tactically, and physically.

Team Canada is taking advantage of every opportunity no matter what obstacles the team encounters. Imagine how much you could accomplish if you had greater commitment to mental training.

**Doing the Mental Work:**

Just as your coach has a seasonal plan for your training, you should create a seasonal plan for your mental training.

What mental skills will benefit you most? How will you develop these skills? Where will you engage in mental training? What resources will you utilize to improve your mental game?

Once the physical training is complete and it’s time to compete, that’s when the mental work pays off. You must commit to putting in the mental work also.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)[**How Elite Athletes Develop Mental Skills**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-develop-mental-skills/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)[**How Elite Athletes Prove Themselves at the Next Level**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-prove-themselves-at-the-next-level/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-your-practice-mindset/)[**How Elite Athletes Combat Worry**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-combat-worry/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

---

### [Mental Skills to Manage Stress for Figure Skating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skills-to-manage-stress-for-figure-skating/)

**Published:** March 25, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/skating-big-image.jpg)

## How to Get a Performance Enhancing Mindset

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Get a Performance Enhancing Mindset](#How_to_Get_a_Performance_Enhancing_Mindset)
    - [Stress crushes performance. If you learn mental strategies, you can enhance your performance and improve your wellbeing. ](#Stress_crushes_performance_If_you_learn_mental_strategies_you_can_enhance_your_performance_and_improve_your_wellbeing)
    - [Enjoying your competitive experience is not possible when you are over-stressed throughout the season.](#Enjoying_your_competitive_experience_is_not_possible_when_you_are_over-stressed_throughout_the_season)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!](#Discover_Mental_Strategies_For_Peak_Performance)

Are you stressed throughout the figure skating season? Do you wish you could find some way to relax and enjoy your sport more?

Training and competing can create a buildup of stress for a figure skater over the course of a season. Stress is a major stumbling block for skaters and a major reason for low scores in competition.

Have you had this experience? In your training sessions, you felt stressed learning a new skill and just couldn’t seem to get it right. Each mistake added greater pressure, creating doubts you would be able to perform the skill in competition.

On competition day, you became nervous and got an uneasy feeling in the pit of your stomach. You then forgot an element of your routine and you were awarded low scores. This buildup of stress snowballed throughout the season and held you back from skating strong routines.

### Stress crushes performance. If you learn mental strategies, you can enhance your performance and improve your wellbeing. 

**Mindset Benefits:**
\* Reduces fear, worry and excessive nervousness. Your competitive mindset will be enhanced with less fear and worry.

\* Improves focus. When you are not bombarded with mental distractions, you can focus 100 percent on the task at hand.

\* Conserves energy. Anxiety burns energy. When you have greater energy stores, you will be able to put forth greater effort and generate more power.

\* Improves sleep. A relaxed mind helps you fall asleep quicker and provides a more restful sleep.

\* Contributes to free movements. When your body is relaxed, your movements will be smoother and more fluid.

\* Learn skills quicker. When you have a clear mind, you can digest technical information faster.

Taking the time to learn mental skills is important for all skaters, at every level.

**A few examples of mental strategies include:**
\* Visualization
\* Deep breathing
\* Meditation
\* Progressive Relaxation
\* Refocusing
\* Affirmations
\* Proper Breathing

Figure skater Nathan Chen, a two-time World champion (2018, 2019) and a 2018 Olympic bronze medalist, recognizes the importance of the mental skill of relaxation.

As Chen prepares for a third consecutive world championship, Chen has added mindfulness to his training regimen.

**CHEN**: *“The past year I spent a little bit more time learning mindfulness and other ways to improve my mental health; make sure that I’m as resilient and robust as I can be going into the following seasons. I think that’s definitely been something that I have found very useful. I think it generally gives me more peace and helps me relax and decompress at the end of each day.”*

### Enjoying your competitive experience is not possible when you are over-stressed throughout the season.

You don’t have to figure out relaxation on your own. Sport psychologists and Mental Game Coaches are trained to teach athletes specific relaxation techniques to improve performance on and off the ice.

Gaining control over your performance starts with learning effective stress reduction strategies.

**Managing your Stress throughout the Season:**

Now that you know the importance of mental skills, it’s time to learn stress-reduction strategies to take your performance to the next level.

Experiment with different relaxation skills and select 2-3 methods that work best for you, such as breathing and focusing on one skill at a time.

It is important to be patient and practice these strategies daily. If you are having difficulty mastering mental skills, please contact us about our one on one mental training programs via Zoom or Facetime–from anywhere in the world.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)[**Avoid Comparisons to Feel More Confident in Figure Skating**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/avoid-comparisons-to-feel-more-confident-in-figure-skating/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/refocus-quickly-when-distracted/)[**Figure Skating Improvement Plan to Avoid Frustration**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/figure-skating-improvement-plan-to-avoid-frustration/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-prevent-mental-mistakes-during-competition/)[**Figure Skating Practice, Preparation, and Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/figure-skating-practice-preparation-and-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-figure-skater-small-2.jpg)

You (or your athlete) might be the most skilled figure skater and train harder or longer than anyone else, but if you can’t take your practice performance to competition, you simply will not reach your true potential in figure skating.

Learn the top 8 mental game lessons to improve focus, composure, and confidence!

[**The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)

Discover proven mental game secrets to unstoppable confidence in practice and competition.

- **Figure Skaters**: Get the mental edge by learning how to take control of your confidence, mentally prepare for competition, and perform with composure under pressure.
- **Coaches**: Boost your figure skater’s confidence using simple, proven mental strategies.
- **Parents**: Help boost your athlete’s performance. Don’t let their mind hold them back any longer.
- **Mental Coaches**: Learn a proven system for helping your athletes boost mental toughness.

[**The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Figure Skating, Figure Skating Mental Toughness

---

### [How Routines Help You Get into the Flow](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-routines-help-you-get-into-the-flow/)

**Published:** April 1, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Athletic Focus](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focusing.jpg)

## Mastering The Pregame Routine

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Mastering The Pregame Routine](#Mastering_The_Pregame_Routine)
    - [A consistent pregame routine drastically increases consistent performance in competitions.](#A_consistent_pregame_routine_drastically_increases_consistent_performance_in_competitions)
    - [How you prepare before competition is under your direct control. When you prepare in a consistent manner, you are setting yourself up for success. ](#How_you_prepare_before_competition_is_under_your_direct_control_When_you_prepare_in_a_consistent_manner_you_are_setting_yourself_up_for_success)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you have a pregame routine? Not just a warm up routine, but also a mental preparation routine?

Is your routine consistent? In other words, do you perform the same pregame routine prior to every competition?

Haphazard pregame preparation leads to inconsistent play or difficulty getting into the flow of a game. Take for instance a high school hockey player who recently reached out to us:

*“I always seem to get off to a slow start in games. It takes me several shifts before I feel comfortable on the ice. Is there anything I can do to help me get into the flow of a game more quickly?”*

One way get going early in a competition is to develop a consistent pregame routine. Imagine if you didn’t practice for a week prior to a game, you would feel unprepared and lack confidence when the puck drops.

The same happens when you don’t have a pregame routine. You are not prepared mentally and physically. When you hit the ice it takes time to warm up physically. Mentally, you are not ready to compete, and it may take you a full period to feel ready.

When you feel unprepared, you will be hesitant and reactive on the ice. When you skip your pregame routine, you feel uncomfortable in the beginning of the game.

A pregame routine is important for all sports, not just hockey. It is a purposeful design to prepare yourself mentally and physically for each game.

### A consistent pregame routine drastically increases consistent performance in competitions.

Being a slow starter may be that you are not clicked in before each competition. A slow starter may eat a candy bar or what’s handy for a pregame snack. Instead, you want a pre-game snack, water, or energy drink before arriving to the competition to help fuel you.

A pregame routine keeps you focused on your preparation, preventing distractions and negative thoughts from flooding your mind. A consistent pregame routine signals your mind and body that you are ready to compete from the start of the competition.

Even though Penn State University men’s hockey had a losing record heading into the 2021 Big Ten Tournament, goaltender Oskar Autio maintains a consistent pregame routine. Autio relies heavily on his mental preparation and pre-game routine.

AUTIO: *“For me, \[the mental game\] has been something that I’ve always worked on, and I know it’s been really important. A lot of it is about your mindset, but I also focus on relaxation and mental preparation before the games. Things like not putting too much pressure on yourself. It’s something I think I can keep getting better at, and I think every goalie works a lot on.”*

### How you prepare before competition is under your direct control. When you prepare in a consistent manner, you are setting yourself up for success. 

**Develop a Consistent Pregame Routine:**

Write out a pregame routine to help you prepare.

1\. Arrive an hour before the competition.
2\. Stretch for 10 minutes.
3\. Get dressed.
4\. Warm up, “My warm-up will consist of:”
5\. Prepare mentally (focus, rehearsal, self-talk, etc.)
6\. Pregame snack.

Know what pregame routine that works for you to help you get the right intensity before the game.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/your-mental-game-and-performance-slumps/)[Routines vs Superstitions for Athletes ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/routines-vs-superstitions-for-athletes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skill-of-visualization-for-athletes/)[Why Warm up Routines Help You Perform Better](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-warm-up-routines-help-you-perform-better/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)[Why Olympic Athletes Use Routines](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-olympic-athletes-use-routines/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game of Sports, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness

**Tags:** Mental Preparation in Sports, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to be an Impact Player from the Bench](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-an-impact-player-from-the-bench/)

**Published:** April 8, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Positive Mentality When Benched](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/Positive-Mentality-When-Benched.jpg)

## Commitment to Your Team’s Success

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Commitment to Your Team’s Success](#Commitment_to_Your_Teams_Success)
    - [If you are on a team, then you have a role on the team. Understanding your role and knowing that your role can change increases motivation and confidence.](#If_you_are_on_a_team_then_you_have_a_role_on_the_team_Understanding_your_role_and_knowing_that_your_role_can_change_increases_motivation_and_confidence)
    - [You don’t control the number of minutes you play. The line-up is the choice of your coach. You do choose the level of commitment and focus you bring to practice, training and games.](#You_dont_control_the_number_of_minutes_you_play_The_line-up_is_the_choice_of_your_coach_You_do_choose_the_level_of_commitment_and_focus_you_bring_to_practice_training_and_games)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you feel a part of your team when you rarely get playing time? Do you see yourself as a bench warmer and nothing more?

Being in a back-up role on a team can hurt an athlete’s confidence. When you don’t see a lot of playing time, you feel you don’t contribute anything to the team.

You see yourself as not having enough talent or ability to play at a high level and compare yourself to your teammates, making you feel *“less than”* or *“not good enough.”*

Your effort in practice is less than your best. After all, you never play. You may even feel the team doesn’t need you or that you were just lucky to make the team.

### If you are on a team, then you have a role on the team. Understanding your role and knowing that your role can change increases motivation and confidence.

If you change your mindset, you will see more opportunities come your way. You should have the mindset that you are a competitive athlete, not a bench warmer. As a competitive athlete, your role is to compete.

When you push yourself in practice, not only do you improve your skills, but you also make your teammates push to new levels too.

When you work hard in practice, you contribute to building team cohesion, increase the motivation of the team, improve team efficacy, and boost the overall performance of the team.

Quarterback Joe Flacco signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles for the 2021 season. Second-year incumbent quarterback Jalen Hurts is slated to be the starter but that hasn’t deterred Flacco’s mindset to compete for the starting role.

**FLACCO**: *“I really just want to come in and show people that I can play football. I don’t care what level of playing that is. Whether you’re the first-string, second-string, third-string guy on the team, you still want to prove to everybody on the team that you can play football and that you deserve a spot on this team in some capacity. That’s really what my job is.”*

Worrying about being a starter, second-string or third-string is not Flacco’s focus. Flacco has the mindset of an elite competitive athlete. Flacco is focused on competing in training camp, competing in drills and competing in games.

### You don’t control the number of minutes you play. The line-up is the choice of your coach. You do choose the level of commitment and focus you bring to practice, training and games.

The goal of a team is to win games. When you make the choice to compete, you contribute to your team’s success.

John Wooden once said that he had a better relationship with his bench players because those players made the starters better and had to be ready to come off the bench.

**How to Contribute to the Success of your Team:**

Define your role on the team in terms of how you can contribute given your role on the team. For example, what intangibles do you bring to the team atmosphere? Are you positive? Do you work hard? Do you push others to excel?

Team success is achieved through competing in practice. If your teammates are not being pushed in practice, your team will not be prepared to play to its potential.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [How to Respond After Being Benched](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-respond-after-being-benched/)
- [Quarterback Jalen Hurts Ready to Compete, Even on the Bench](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/quarterback-jalen-hurts-ready-to-compete-even-on-the-bench/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)[How Athletes Can Cope With Getting Benched](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-cope-with-getting-benched/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Confidence in sports, Mental Game of Sports, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness

**Tags:** Mental Game in Sports, Mental Toughness

---

### [The Coaching Zone with Dr. John Yeager](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-coaching-zone-leadership-with-dr-john-yeager/)

**Published:** April 8, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## The Sports Psychology Podcast

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Listen to the podcast below:](#Listen_to_the_podcast_below)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

In this week’s podcast, Dr. Cohn interviews Dr. John Yeager about how coaches can improve team dynamics by understanding how to improve athletes’ Confidence, Hope, Optimism, and Team resilience. Dr. Yeager abd Dr. Cohn discuss about how athletes can build resilience in sports.

The Coaching Zone Book emphasizes the importance of “coach self- management” – self-awareness and self-regulation through stories, strengths, and shortcomings. Visit: [www.TheCoachingZoneBook.com](https://thecoachingzonebook.com/)

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC.

### Listen to the podcast below:

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Mental Coaching Programs For Athletes – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-coaching-programs-for-athletes/)
- [Getting into “The Zone” with Jim Fannin](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/getting-into-the-zone-with-jim-fannin/)
- [How to Play Beyond Your Comfort Zone in Golf – Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/ask-doc-how-to-play-beyond-your-comfort-zone-in-golf/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Athletes Who Are Stuck in a Training Mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-are-stuck-in-a-training-mindset/)

**Published:** April 15, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![facing adversity](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/9-24-sr-large.jpg)

## How to Develop a Competitive Mindset

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Develop a Competitive Mindset](#How_to_Develop_a_Competitive_Mindset)
    - [If you are not training a competitive mindset in practices, you will not have an elite competitive mindset in competitions.](#If_you_are_not_training_a_competitive_mindset_in_practices_you_will_not_have_an_elite_competitive_mindset_in_competitions)
    - [How you perform is the result of your training. If you want to compete at a high level under pressure, then you must pay attention to training your competitive mindset in practice.](#How_you_perform_is_the_result_of_your_training_If_you_want_to_compete_at_a_high_level_under_pressure_then_you_must_pay_attention_to_training_your_competitive_mindset_in_practice)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What is a competitive mindset? Can you learn to develop a competitive mindset? Two mindsets are important for your success. The are: the training mindset and the competitive mindset.

**These mindsets are characterized as:**

1\. The training mindset consists of improving the fundamental aspects of your sport. The training mindset is seen as a time to analyze mechanics, work on tactical skills and develop physiological capacities through drills and repetition.

2\. The competitive mindset is the attitude you want during competition, such as performing athletically, competing aggressively, having a laser focus or being resilient.

One of the challenges for athletes is to not get stuck in the training mindset especially when they compete…

If these two mindsets are necessary, then how is a competitive mindset developed?

Some athletes believe the competitive mindset cannot be learned. That is, the competitive mindset is a trait- Either you have it or you don’t.

This “either-or” belief is false. You can develop your mindset just like any other skill.

So how do you develop the competitive mindset? The answer is in training sessions and practices!

### If you are not training a competitive mindset in practices, you will not have an elite competitive mindset in competitions.

*\*If you are not laser focused in training, you will not be laser-focused during competitions.*

*\*If you are not working to be resilient in training, you will not bounce back from adversity in competition.*

*\* If you play it safe in scrimmages, you will not be aggressive in competition.*

You are a product of your training. You need to train your competitive mindset in practices, so you can rely on that mindset when you compete.

As the U.S. women’s national soccer team continues its preparations for the Tokyo Olympics, the younger players are learning how to develop their competitive mindsets from their veteran teammates.

US midfielder Samantha Mewis has learned a lot from teammate Carli Llyod on how to build a competitive mindset.

MEWIS: *“I feel like as a young player coming on this team, \[Carli Lloyd\] set such a good example of just the way to take good care of yourself, to be a true professional and to really just not take no for an answer, to just put yourself out there all the time, be a little bit unapologetic about what you want and what you’re willing to do to get it.”*

Mewis has witnessed the years of success by the USWNT and wants to replicate the same competitive mindset.

### How you perform is the result of your training. If you want to compete at a high level under pressure, then you must pay attention to training your competitive mindset in practice.

For example, gymnasts call it doing pressure sets in practice. Dancers and figure skaters do dress rehearsals.

**Developing a Mindset for Competition:**

You start by working on your competitive mindset in practice. Teams scrimmage. Athletes do dress rehearsals and pressure sets to replicate competition.

Next, you have to remind yourself that all your practice and training is complete when you enter competition. Now is a time to get the job done with the skills you have!

Think about performing athletically and intuitively. You are not performing mindlessly–instead you trusting your motor memory and reacting to your environment or the routine in your mind.

Coaches and teammates will be happy with your performance when you perform aggressively and take risks–even when you might lose.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [Your Mental Game and Performance Slumps](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/your-mental-game-and-performance-slumps/)
- [How to be an Impact Player from the Bench](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-be-an-impact-player-from-the-bench/)
- [How to Stay Composed When You Make Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game of Sports, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Preparation, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, Mindset in Sports

---

### [Approaches to Mental Coaching with Dr. Bob Winters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/approaches-to-mental-coaching-with-dr-bob-winters/)

**Published:** April 15, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## The Sports Psychology Podcast

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [The Sports Psychology Podcast](#The_Sports_Psychology_Podcast)
    - [Listen to the Podcast Below:](#Listen_to_the_Podcast_Below)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

In this week’s podcast, Dr. Cohn interviews long-time friend, Dr. Bob Winters, an internationally renowned mental coach, Author and professional speaker.

Known as “Dr. Bob”, he helps world-class athletes, collegiate players and teams, juniors, and individuals attain confidence and achieve new levels of athletic and business excellence.

Dr. Patrick Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with junior to professional athletes at Peak Performance Sports, LLC.

### Listen to the Podcast Below: 

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [Mental Conditioning Coach Dr. Bob Winters](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-psychology-with-dr-bob-winters/)
- [Why Should I Work with a Mental Performance Coach? ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/why-should-i-work-with-a-mental-performance-coach/)
- [The Mental Coaching Process](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-mental-coaching-process/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Sports Psychology Podcast

---

### [Visualization Can Give You a Mental Edge](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/visualization-can-give-you-a-mental-edge/)

**Published:** April 21, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-2-3.jpg)

## How to Experience Success Before Competition

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Experience Success Before Competition](#How_to_Experience_Success_Before_Competition)
    - [Visualizing is a way to direct the movies in your head so you can achieve successful athletic outcomes.](#Visualizing_is_a_way_to_direct_the_movies_in_your_head_so_you_can_achieve_successful_athletic_outcomes)
    - [Each time you visualize, you embed those successful images and emotions in your mind and help you perform in a similar manner in competition.](#Each_time_you_visualize_you_embed_those_successful_images_and_emotions_in_your_mind_and_help_you_perform_in_a_similar_manner_in_competition)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

How do you gain a mental edge over your competition? Mental practice or visualization is one strategy that can give you a decisive advantage over your competition.

Visualization is a mental skill that uses images combined with other senses to experience a successful athletic performance prior to a practice or competition.

You have images that pop up in your head all the time. Many of those images are worst case scenarios or situations you fear might happen. Images are powerful, and when repeated over time, the likelihood of those images becoming reality increases.

### Visualizing is a way to direct the movies in your head so you can achieve successful athletic outcomes.

Olympic athletes use visualization as a regular part of their mental training.
In preparation for the 2021 U.S. Olympic Trials, swimmer Cody Miller visualized daily.

Miller used visualization to prepare himself for the multi-day competition against other elite swimmers and keep him mentally ready to perform under the pressure of Olympic Trials.

MILLER: *“For months, before I qualified for the \[2016 Olympic\] team, every night before I fell asleep, I would spend 5 or 10 minutes just visualizing what the atmosphere at Olympic trials in Omaha would be like. What the pool was going to look like, how it was going to look when I was standing behind my lane. All of those things were already determined in my head and how I was going to act when that time finally came.”*

In the end, Miller made the Olympic team and won a bronze medal in the men’s 100-meter breaststroke at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Miller set an American record in the process, with a time of 58.87 seconds.

**Important Visualization Steps:**

1\. Identify the behavior you want. What do you want to achieve? Write out exactly want you want to happen.

2\. Start the exercise by getting into a comfortable position and relaxed mental state.

3\. Close your eyes and set the scene. Mentally see yourself in the setting.

4\. Use all your senses. What would you see, hear, feel, smell, and taste. Imagine wearing your uniform and equipment.

5\. Experience yourself performing the action successfully. Try to make your images as vivid as possible.

6\. Feel the emotion. Start the scene feeling energized, excited, relaxed, and confident.

7\. Immerse yourself in the emotions of performing successfully. Even see your teammates, coaches, parents, and spectators cheering.

8\. Practice visualizing the scene on a regular basis.

Visualizing is a powerful tool and provides a substantial edge for athletes over the competition.

### Each time you visualize, you embed those successful images and emotions in your mind and help you perform in a similar manner in competition.

**Tip for Visualizing Successful Performances:**

Mental rehearsal is not just about performing perfectly when you compete. Stuff happens in sports. You want to prepare yourself by visualizing challenges you might see and how to cope with those challenges.

Want to learn more about how to use mental rehearsal to your advantage? We work with athletes all over the world via Zoom, Facetime, and Skype. Contact us for details about mental game coaching.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [Mental Skill of Visualization for Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-skill-of-visualization-for-athletes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[How to Pros Use Visualization to Improve Success](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-pros-use-visualization-to-improve-success/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-who-are-stuck-in-a-training-mindset/)[How Visualization Helps Boost Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-visualization-helps-boost-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Mental Preparation, Mental Toughness

**Tags:** Mental Edge in Sports, Visualization in Sports

---

### [How to Manage Anxiety in Competitions](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-manage-anxiety-in-competitions/)

**Published:** April 29, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-1-1.jpg)

## Play Confidently and Avoid Outcome Thinking

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Play Confidently and Avoid Outcome Thinking](#Play_Confidently_and_Avoid_Outcome_Thinking)
    - [If you BECOME anxious, then you can BECOME relaxed or composed.](#If_you_BECOME_anxious_then_you_can_BECOME_relaxed_or_composed)
    - [Managing Anxiety in Stressful Competitions:](#Managing_Anxiety_in_Stressful_Competitions)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

How anxious do you become during stressful moments in competitions? Would you describe yourself as an anxious athlete?

Anxiety doesn’t just happen in sports. Even in championship games, the event itself doesn’t cause anxiety. Why do so many athletes become anxious in competitions?

Two reasons contribute to anxiety in sports.

One cause of anxiety for athletes is labeling yourself as an *“anxious athlete”*. If you believe you are an anxious athlete, you will see it come true. You feel helpless to change or trying to manage anxiety. In essence, you become a prisoner of your anxiety.

For instance, anxious athletes rarely perform well under pressure. If a tennis player labels himself an anxious athlete, he will expect to be anxious and choke under pressure.

Another contributor to anxiety is the belief that you cannot control your emotions. The truth is you control your emotions–not the situation. If you believe you can’t control your emotions when you experience negative emotions in a game, this increases your anxiety.

A pitcher who gives up a tying homerun in the ninth inning will understandably become angry, frustrated, or agitated. Those emotions are normal. Burying negative emotions compounds the problem. The goal for the pitcher is to regain composure and focus on the next batter.

The question then is how can you manage your emotions in competitions?

### If you BECOME anxious, then you can BECOME relaxed or composed.

You can manage your situation by re-interpreting the situation, challenging your thoughts or utilizing a relaxation strategy.

When you apply these simple strategies, you will feel you are capable to rise to competitive challenges with confidence.

PGA golfer Hideki Matsuyama won the 2021 Masters tournament, his first career Major championship victory. Heading into the final day of the tournament, Matsuyama was winning by four-strokes and was very nervous at the start of the round.

**MATSUYAMA**: *“My plan this morning was to wake up about 9:30, but needless to say, I arose much earlier than that and couldn’t go back to sleep. So, I came to the golf course early. Had a really good warm-up. I felt really good going to the first tee, until I stood on the first tee, and then it hit me that I’m in the last group of the Masters Tournament, and I’m the leader by four strokes. And then I was really nervous.”*

Despite his nerves and all the *“what if’s”*, Matsuyama was able to keep his composure, manage his strong emotions and win by one stroke.

You have the capacity to manage your emotions in any competitive situation. You are the director of your experience and ultimate influence your performance.

### Managing Anxiety in Stressful Competitions:

First, realize that most anxiety is about fear of failure and worry about outcomes. When you worry about losing or embarrassing yourself, you will feel anxious…

Next, you want to embrace the pressure of the moment as the reason why you train so hard.

But how your interpret the pressure is up to you. Try to put competition into perspective and know this will not be the last competition you will have. You will have many other opportunities. And make sure you let go of thinking about the outcome and the consequences of the outcome.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)[Overcoming Pressure and Anxiety in Matches](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/overcoming-pressure-and-anxiety-in-matches/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[How to Overcome Tension and Anxiety](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-tension-and-anxiety/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)[Coping with Pregame Anxiety](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-pregame-anxiety/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game of Sports, Mental Performance Articles, Performance Anxiety

**Tags:** Mental Edge in Sports, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [Embrace Healthy Competition within Your Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embrace-healthy-competition-within-your-team/)

**Published:** May 6, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-1-3.jpg)

## Use Competition as Motivation to Improve Your Game

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Use Competition as Motivation to Improve Your Game](#Use_Competition_as_Motivation_to_Improve_Your_Game)
    - [Being competitive helps you push yourself and your teammates to greater heights.](#Being_competitive_helps_you_push_yourself_and_your_teammates_to_greater_heights)
    - [To raise your game to the next level, you should practice with a competitive mindset. ](#To_raise_your_game_to_the_next_level_you_should_practice_with_a_competitive_mindset)
    - [Embrace Healthy Competition:](#Embrace_Healthy_Competition)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What does it mean to be competitive? Athletes often define the word competitive as the “will to win”. To beat your opponent, you need to have the will to win.

Another meaning of the word competitive is “to strive.” In other words, being competitive is the strong desire to put in the effort to become the best athlete you can be.

### Being competitive helps you push yourself and your teammates to greater heights.

Let’s look at two scenarios: In these scenarios, you will notice some athletes are threatened by friendly competition instead of becoming motivated to improve their game.

**First scenario:** You play third base on your college softball team. Your coach recruited a top high school player. You felt you were being replaced. You thought, *“I had an off year last season and now I’m going to lose my starting role on the team.”*

Instead of using the situation as motivation, you felt threatened by a new player challenging you for your starting position and lost your confidence. You abandoned your competitive mindset and lost your edge. Ironically, it was your competitive mindset that helped you break into the starting lineup in the first place.

**Second scenario:** You are the starting goalie for your high school soccer team. It’s your senior year, and you are trying to earn a college athletic scholarship. You worked hard to put yourself in position to eventually play collegiate soccer. During tryouts, a freshman goalie stood out among the freshman class.

They were so talented that they made the varsity squad. Your coach was so impressed by their skills that they started the first two preseason games. You started to question your own abilities, *“Maybe I’m not good enough to play in college.”* You felt threatened by how skilled the freshman goalie was, instead of being motivated to raise your game to another level.

### To raise your game to the next level, you should practice with a competitive mindset. 

Friendly competition amongst teammates helps you improve your skills. In practice, find ways to compete. Friendly competition fuels motivation.

In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings selected quarterback Kellon Mond in the third round despite investing a lot on their current starter, Kirk Cousins. Robert Griffin III, a former teammate of Cousins, commented on how the situation may unfold.

**GRIFFIN**: *“Yeah, I can tell you that No. 8 \[Cousins\] in Minnesota is not real happy right now. Because Kellon Mond represents exactly what he doesn’t do well. Kellon Mond is the big, physical quarterback. He can run it, throw it all over the field, and I don’t think that’s something that No. 8 is able to do.”*

Whether Griffin’s assessment is on target, it does present a challenge for Cousins. Cousins can see the draft pick as a sign he is heading out the door or he can look for ways to out-compete, out-work and out-prepare his new teammate and raise the level of his play even higher.

When you strive to be your best, you never actually lose.

### Embrace Healthy Competition:

The idea is to *“Never back down, never concede.”* This means you don’t panic when someone challenges you for your position. You embrace the challenge as a way to help you compete and improve your game.

Remember to embrace competition from teammates and know that if you both compete and challenge each other, you will both grow as athletes.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [**Focus on What You Can Control in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)
- [**What Separates Elite Athletes from the Rest?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)
- [**How to Stay Composed When You Make Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Athlete Motivation, Mental Game of Sports, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness

**Tags:** Confidence in Competition, Mental Toughness

---

### [How to Focus Better During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-better-during-competition/)

**Published:** May 12, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![The Benefits of Mental Game Training](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/The-Benefits-of-Mental-Game-Training.jpg)

## How Athletes Can Improve Concentration

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Athletes Can Improve Concentration](#How_Athletes_Can_Improve_Concentration)
    - [When you try to control aspects of performance outside of your direct control, you become worried and take your focus off performing in the moment.](#When_you_try_to_control_aspects_of_performance_outside_of_your_direct_control_you_become_worried_and_take_your_focus_off_performing_in_the_moment)
    - [Being your best requires comprehensive preparation, full effort, laser focus, emotional control, and a healthy perspective.](#Being_your_best_requires_comprehensive_preparation_full_effort_laser_focus_emotional_control_and_a_healthy_perspective)
    - [When you are fully immersed in the game, you are not overly focused on potential outcomes.](#When_you_are_fully_immersed_in_the_game_you_are_not_overly_focused_on_potential_outcomes)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What are the most important factors you can control to perform well in competition?

The answer is focus, effort, preparation, emotional reactions, and attitude. Those five factors are the only aspects of performance that you can control.

### When you try to control aspects of performance outside of your direct control, you become worried and take your focus off performing in the moment.

**Take for instance the following…**

\* In gymnastics, you do not have direct control over your score, the equipment, and conditions of the competitive arena.

You do control your focus. You can choose to either immerse yourself in your routine or focus on the fear of making a mistake.

You are also in control of your effort. You can choose to go for it or hold back slightly and play it safe.

\* In baseball, you do not have direct control over balls, strikes or the score.

You control your thoughts and your approach to the game. You control your emotional reaction to bad calls. You control your attitude, the way you see yourself as a player.

### Being your best requires comprehensive preparation, full effort, laser focus, emotional control, and a healthy perspective. 

Attending to these aspects of your game lead to peak performance. For example, soccer player Ollie Watkins, who plays for Villa of the Premier League, focuses on his effort during matches, not his statistics.

Even though Watkins has scored eight goals in 18 appearances, he prides himself on his effort during matches.

**WATKINS**: *“As soon as I go on the pitch, the number one thing should be to work hard, and don’t leave anything out on the pitch. I feel that’s what I do to help. Goals and assists are a bonus, so I just try and run as much as I can and bring something else to the team.”*

### When you are fully immersed in the game, you are not overly focused on potential outcomes.

When you pay attention to your effort, you are not worried about extraneous distractions that disrupt your game.

The importance of staying focused on controlling “what you can control” is super important for athletes. Focusing on aspects you can control negates hundreds of potential internal and external distractions.

Maintaining a strict focus on what you can control reduces worry, anxiety, and pressure.

Without the added weight of pressure, you can put your maximum effort and focus into your competition and performing at your peak.

**How to Focus Your Best for Peak Performance:**

Effort and focus have significant impact on performance. The effort and focus you put forth can dictate your performance…

To compete with full and consistent effort and focus, rank your effort from 1-10 after each performance, one being the least amount of effort and 10 indicating maximum effort.

Also rate your focus from 1-10, 1 being highly distracted and 10 being fully immersed in the moment.

When you monitor these two mental skills, you will be more conscious of competing with high effort and focus. Self-monitoring your mental game will help you make better decisions in the next performance.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [Focus on What You Can Control in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[Visualization Can Give You a Mental Edge](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/visualization-can-give-you-a-mental-edge/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-stay-composed-when-you-make-mistakes/)[How Routines Help You Get into the Flow](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-routines-help-you-get-into-the-flow/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game of Sports, Mental Game Skills, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Preparation, Mental Toughness, Peaksports Products, The Focused Athlete

**Tags:** Focus and Concentration for Athletes, Mental Toughness, The Focused Athlete

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### [Does Perfectionism Help Your Performance?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/does-perfectionism-help-your-performance/)

**Published:** May 20, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How Athletes Bounce Back From Defeat](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-Athletes-Bounce-Back-From-Defeat.jpg)

## How Perfectionism Affects Sport Performance

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Perfectionism Affects Sport Performance](#How_Perfectionism_Affects_Sport_Performance)
    - [When you demand perfection, you are not on the right path…](#When_you_demand_perfection_you_are_not_on_the_right_path%E2%80%A6)
    - [Perfection is steeped in negativity. It’s based on avoiding mistakes and mishaps.](#Perfection_is_steeped_in_negativity_Its_based_on_avoiding_mistakes_and_mishaps)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What are your thoughts on perfectionism for athletes? In your opinion, should the goal be to have a perfect performance? So many athletes are confused by the perfection.

Is perfectionism good or bad for athletes? Depends on who you ask…

Some pitchers want to pitch a perfect game every time they take the hill. Gymnasts want a perfect score on every routine they perform. Hockey goalies want to have a perfect shut out every game.

The above statements revolve around wants. The most devastating aspects of perfection are demands:

*“I have to pitch perfectly, or I won’t get into a top college.”
“I have to perform the perfect routine, or my parents will be angry with me.”
“If I am not perfect in goal, it means that I’m letting down the team.”*

### When you demand perfection, you are not on the right path…

**Here’s how perfectionism hurts performance:**

You arrive at the competition site an hour or so before the competition. Your perfectionist thoughts have already started. It’s sink or swim, win or lose, succeed or fail. With all-or-nothing thoughts, there is no in between. It’s either one or the other.

Instead of winning or losing, the perfectionist adopts the mindset “Don’t lose.”

A perfectionist competes with the mindset of *“Don’t blow it”, “Don’t mess up”* or *“Don’t embarrass yourself.”*

### Perfection is steeped in negativity. It’s based on avoiding mistakes and mishaps. 

The confusing part is that some athletes who label themselves as “perfectionists” aren’t perfectionists at all.

For example, Los Angeles Lakers guard Alex Caruso considers himself a perfectionist but read into how he describes himself:

**CARUSO**: *“Obviously I’m a bit of a perfectionist so there’s a couple plays here and there, especially in the Portland game, that I wish I could do over and do better. Every time I’ve gotten an opportunity in my career, I’ve risen to the occasion, and there’s something in me, that competitive spirit, that desire to be great, the desire to do everything right that just rises to the occasion given the opportunity.”*

Is that perfectionism or is it striving to be better and better every time he plays a basketball game?

Let’s examine Caruso’s statement: *“There’s a couple of plays that I wish I could do over again and do better.”* In this instance, Caruso is talking about learning from his mistakes.

A perfectionist would say, *“I made too many mistakes. I messed up badly. I don’t know what’s wrong with me.”*

Let’s look at another statement from Caruso: *“There’s something in me, that competitive spirit, that desire to be great, the desire to do everything right that just rises to the occasion given the opportunity.”* By the *“desire to do everything right,”* Caruso is referring to doing the little things right to improve his overall game.

A perfectionist would not talk about desire. A perfectionist thinks in absolutes, *“I have to do everything right.”*

You want to look at what is helpful and what hurts your game when it comes to perfectionism…

**What’s Helpful About Perfectionism**

Perfectionists are very motivated, have a strong work ethic, are committed to their goals, and have a desire to learn and improve.

A good mindset for practice, which is their strength. In addition, coaches love to work with this type of athlete because they have a strong work ethic and are very coachable.

**What’s Unhealthy About Perfectionism**

Perfectionist have fragile confidence and lose confidence quickly not performing well. They expect to perform perfectly (make zero mistakes), which leads to performing tight. They are very self-critical of their performance and tend to dwell on mistakes. Often, perfectionist athletes are stuck in a practice mindset, which their ability to play freely.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [Perfectionism Hurts Athletes During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionism-hurts-athletes-during-competition/)
- [Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/top-10-challenges-of-perfectionism/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)[How Perfectionism Can Hurt Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-perfectionism-can-hurt-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Confidence in sports, Emotional Toughness, Mental Game of Sports, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness in Sports, Perfectionism

**Tags:** Mental Game in Sports, Mental Toughness in Sports, Perfectionism in Athletes, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [What's the Missing Link in Your Performance?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/whats-the-missing-link-in-your-performance/)

**Published:** May 27, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![clutch vs. choke mindset](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/10-1-sr-large.jpg)

## How Mental Training Improves Physical Training

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How Mental Training Improves Physical Training](#How_Mental_Training_Improves_Physical_Training)
    - [Mental training is the needed boost that takes you to the next level and gives you a significant edge over your competition.](#Mental_training_is_the_needed_boost_that_takes_you_to_the_next_level_and_gives_you_a_significant_edge_over_your_competition)
    - [Strong mental skills or a strong mental game does not happen by chance. Competitive mindsets are built through purposeful training.](#Strong_mental_skills_or_a_strong_mental_game_does_not_happen_by_chance_Competitive_mindsets_are_built_through_purposeful_training)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What factor contributes most to your success in sports?

Which of the following would you rank as the most important elements to your training and preparation?

*\* Nutrition
 \* Flexibility
 \* Aerobic Conditioning
 \* Speed Training
 \* Anaerobic Training
 \* Reaction time
 \* Agility
 \* Power
 \* Technical Skills/ Mechanics*

Each of these physical elements contribute to improved athletic performance. But where would you rank mental training in this hierarchy for success?

How much attention and time do you dedicate to your mental skills training? Most athletes believe mental factors significantly contribute to elite performance but pay little attention to mental skills training.

Mental training is the difference-maker in sport performance. In other words, physical training can take you only so far.

### Mental training is the needed boost that takes you to the next level and gives you a significant edge over your competition.

You can spend hours in the weight room strengthening your body but what good is a strong body if you have a weak mental game?

You can hire private coaches to refine your mechanics but what good are sound mechanics if you can’t perform at a high level under pressure?

You can crush practices but if you cannot focus during a competition, then you will under perform despite your hard work.

Mental training can take you farther than physical training alone. Former NFL wide receiver Brandon Marshall knows what it takes to be successful in athletics.

Marshall played 13 years in the NFL teams, was chosen for a half-dozen Pro Bowls and amassed 12,351 receiving yards (23rd most receiving yards in NFL history).

Currently an analyst on ESPN, Marshall emphasized the importance of training the mind, yet sees mental training as the single most neglected aspect of performance preparation.

**MARSHALL**: *“Now look, we keep saying that sport is 80% mental, so when are we going to double down on training our mind and making sure we are there mentally? We don’t do it enough as players.”*

Neglecting your mental game is like willingly missing half of your practices and expecting to achieve personal bests every time you compete. If competitive performance is 80% mental and you are doing little to no mental training, you will fall short of your competitive goals.

### Strong mental skills or a strong mental game does not happen by chance. Competitive mindsets are built through purposeful training.

If you are committed to being the best athlete you can possibly be, the only way to achieve that objective is by adding mental training to your preparation regimen.

**Mindset for Sports Success:**

Ask yourself the three following questions:

*1. How far do I want to go in my sport?
 2. Without mental training, will I achieve my ultimate objectives and maximum potential?
 3. How do I incorporate mental training into my training regimen?*

Once you understand the need for mental training, then it’s a matter of committing to a stronger mental game.

Once all your training is complete, the mental game is the most important skill for success in sports.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [Embrace Healthy Competition within Your Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embrace-healthy-competition-within-your-team/)
- [What Separates Elite Athletes from the Rest?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)
- [Focus on What You Can Control in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game of Sports, Mental Game Skills, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Preparation, Mental Toughness

**Tags:** Mental Game in Sports, Mental Toughness in Sports, Mental Training in Sports

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### [3 Ways to Quickly Rebound from Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/3-ways-to-quickly-rebound-from-mistakes/)

**Published:** June 3, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Turn Mistakes Into Success](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Turn-Mistakes-Into-Success.jpg)

## Don’t Let One Mistake Affect Your Performance

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Don’t Let One Mistake Affect Your Performance](#Dont_Let_One_Mistake_Affect_Your_Performance)
    - [If you are unable to refocus on the next play, next routine or next race, you are bound to make more mistakes.](#If_you_are_unable_to_refocus_on_the_next_play_next_routine_or_next_race_you_are_bound_to_make_more_mistakes)
    - [Rebounding from mistakes and refocusing is a mental skill that requires mental training to learn and develop.](#Rebounding_from_mistakes_and_refocusing_is_a_mental_skill_that_requires_mental_training_to_learn_and_develop)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Does making a mistake affect your performance in competition?

Maybe you can refocus and be your best for the rest of the competition. Or possibly, one mistake turns into another and your performance spirals downward.

The thought of that mistake or the consequences of that mistake take the focus away from performing in the moment.

For example, making a mistake early in a competition can create doubts for how you will perform in the rest of the competition, “I just don’t have it today. It’s one of those days. I will continue making the same mistakes as usual.”

### If you are unable to refocus on the next play, next routine or next race, you are bound to make more mistakes. 

The bigger or more important the competition, the more likely you will follow up a mistake with an even more costly mistake. During playoff games, championships, rival games, top-level competitions or important matches, mistakes can take on additional significance for some athletes and challenge their composure.

Since every athlete will make many mistakes throughout a career, learning to re-focus your attention in the present is a critical mental skill to develop.

As the 2021 NBA season was winding down, the Denver Nuggets were contending for a playoff spot. In an interview Denver forward Aaron Gordon commented on how mistakes can affect a player’s performance.

**GORDON**: *“On the court, you want to be icy. You want to be really cool. You want to be composed. And when your mental \[state\] is not right on the court, you do stupid things, like get technical fouls or compound mistakes. Like, say you miss a shot, you’re mad that you missed a shot, so you turn around and foul somebody 80 feet away from the basket.”*

As you can see, athletes at every level need to learn how to maintain their composure and refocus to bounce back from mistakes.

### Rebounding from mistakes and refocusing is a mental skill that requires mental training to learn and develop.

**Rebounding from mistakes is comprised of three components:**

1\. **The ability to quickly calm yourself:** A quick calming strategy helps you keep your emotions in check. A deep breath is one method to calm an athlete’s mind and body.

2\. **The use of a phrase to move on:** A cue can be a word or action that signals for you to let go of the last moment. An effective cue can be as simple as telling yourself, “Move on” or “That’s in the past.”

3\. **The ability to refocus:** Refocusing is a matter of changing your focus from the past to the present moment. Refocusing is the hallmark of successful athletes.

Learn to develop these three components so you can respond better to mistakes.

Try relaxation techniques, cues and refocusing strategies in practice. Determine what strategies feel comfortable and effective and practice those skills in your training sessions.

If you can learn to manage mistakes in practice, you are closer to coping with mistakes in competition.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [Embrace Healthy Competition within Your Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embrace-healthy-competition-within-your-team/)
- [What Separates Elite Athletes from the Rest?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)
- [Focus on What You Can Control in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Athlete Motivation, Composure in Sports, Mental Game of Sports, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness, Mental Toughness in Sports

**Tags:** Letting Go Of Mistakes In Sports, Mental Toughness in Sports

---

### [How to Overcome the Fear of Negative Outcomes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)

**Published:** June 15, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![How to Turn Mistakes Into Success](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Turn-Mistakes-Into-Success.jpg)

## Stay Focused on What To Do in the Present

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Stay Focused on What To Do in the Present](#Stay_Focused_on_What_To_Do_in_the_Present)
    - [Focusing on fear places your focus on future negative outcomes and unknowns.](#Focusing_on_fear_places_your_focus_on_future_negative_outcomes_and_unknowns)
    - [To perform at your peak, your focus should be present oriented, “What should I do now?” instead of focusing on what ifs and negative outcomes.](#To_perform_at_your_peak_your_focus_should_be_present_oriented_%E2%80%9CWhat_should_I_do_now%E2%80%9D_instead_of_focusing_on_what_ifs_and_negative_outcomes)
    - [Fear is not real until you fuel that fear.](#Fear_is_not_real_until_you_fuel_that_fear)
    - [Overcoming the Fear of Negative Outcomes:](#Overcoming_the_Fear_of_Negative_Outcomes)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Are you fearful of losing or making “big” mistakes in competition? Welcome to the world of sports where losses and mistakes are a part of the game.

Two types of athletes exist in sports: One type of athlete focuses on the fear of making mistakes while the other athlete focuses on making plays.

### Focusing on fear places your focus on future negative outcomes and unknowns.

Focusing on fear stops you in your tracks and disrupts improvement and peak performance.

Imagine what would happen if a hockey goalie was focused on staring at his stick instead of the play in front of him. Or a golfer looking at another golfer while attempting to drive a ball off the tee. Both choices would end in disaster.

When you obsess over losing, you are no longer focused on successfully performing in the moment. You are more worried about losing and the meaning you assign to losing. For example, “If I lose, it will mean that I am not talented.”

Imagine the following scenario, a volleyball player is serving to close out a set…

Their team is an overwhelming favorite to win the match, but the opposing team is on top of their game, saving the ball with athletic digs and blocking shots. The match is closer than anyone expected.

Instead of focusing on the positioning of the opposing team, the player serving is focused on trying not to serve the ball into the net. The player’s fear causes them to be tense and nervous, slightly throwing off their timing. The player serves the ball right into the net, just like they feared.

### To perform at your peak, your focus should be present oriented, “What should I do now?” instead of focusing on what ifs and negative outcomes.

Jean FranÁois MÈnard, a mental-performance coach, has been working with Laurence Vincent-Lapointe, a 13-time world champion canoeist, as she prepares to hopefully compete in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

**MENARD**: *“When you show up at the Olympics, every athlete is strong physically, every athlete is prepared technically, but the ones who typically perform very well are the ones who can manage the moment, manage themselves, manage the pressure, manage the expectations that come with that.”*

Vincent-Lapointe has faced a lot of adversity, including testing positive for a questionable performance-enhancing substance. Vincent-Lapointe has been faced with many fears regarding her ability to regain her form and compete at a high level again.

**VINCENT-LAPOINTE**: *“\[Menard\] helped me realize that whenever I’m afraid of something that’s going to happen, it’s all speculative. I’m not basing my fear on something real, I’m basing my fear on something that hasn’t happened. So he helped me get back in the moment and get back to what I know I’ve done, my successes, and every good thing I’ve done.”*

### Fear is not real until you fuel that fear. 

Focusing on your actions in the moment minimizes fear. Those fears may exist in the back of your mind but that fear no longer is an intrusive disruption.

Once you regain your focus in the present, you free yourself to put all your effort in performing in the moment.

### Overcoming the Fear of Negative Outcomes:

Healthy internal dialogue can help you overcome irrational fears. Ask yourself the following questions: What do I fear? Is this outcome a definite? If no, what can I do in the present to enhance my performance the most?

Fear is often irrational. When you counter fear with logical thinking, you are better able to immerse yourself in the moment and perform at your peak.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [Embrace Healthy Competition within Your Team](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embrace-healthy-competition-within-your-team/)
- [What Separates Elite Athletes from the Rest?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)
- [Focus on What You Can Control in Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Composure in Sports, Concentration in Sports, Emotional Toughness, Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focused Athletes, Mental Game in Sports, Mental Toughness

---

### [Have Trust in Your Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)

**Published:** June 17, 2021
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![effort in basketball](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/10-15-basketball-large.jpg)

## Why Athletes Must Trust in Their Skills

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Why Athletes Must Trust in Their Skills](#Why_Athletes_Must_Trust_in_Their_Skills)
    - [Trusting your game means you are performing or playing in the moment.](#Trusting_your_game_means_you_are_performing_or_playing_in_the_moment)
    - [How does a lack of trust affect performance?](#How_does_a_lack_of_trust_affect_performance)
    - [Every repetition matters. Every drill matters.](#Every_repetition_matters_Every_drill_matters)
    - [How to Have Trust in Your Skills:](#How_to_Have_Trust_in_Your_Skills)
    - [Related Articles on Mental Game:](#Related_Articles_on_Mental_Game)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

What does it mean to have trust in your game? Trust may very well be the most important factor in peak performance. What is trust?

### Trusting your game means you are performing or playing in the moment. 

Trust is relying on your learned skills to perform to your level of ability in any circumstance. You are neither thinking nor analyzing, just doing.

For example, a baseball player who has trust in his ability at the plate, believes he can make solid contact with the ball and put the ball in play.

Trust doesn’t mean the player won’t strike out occasionally, nor does it mean he will get a base hit every time. Trust means the player can swing freely and rely on his training to produce at the plate.

### How does a lack of trust affect performance?

When you lack trust in your game, you have a high level of anxiety, and you play tentatively. The uncertainty of what might happen in a competition, sets off a fight or flight reaction. Anxiety causes your heart to pound, the game becomes too fast for you to see opportunities and you make poor decisions and uncharacteristic mistakes.

How does having trust in your game improve performance?

When you have trust in your game, you can play intuitively–almost on autopilot. You compete with focus but you are not trying to make it happen.

When you have trust in your game, you play in the moment without thinking about what might happen or analyzing what you are doing. You play intuitively.

Your movements are fluid and efficient. You are immersed in the flow of the game. As you perform the action unfolds in front of you and the game slows down for you.

How do you gain trust in your game?

You gain trust through mental and physical preparation. You prepare as if it matters because it does.

### Every repetition matters. Every drill matters. 

You give your full attention to doing the little things at a high-level during training.

When it’s time to compete, you know you have done all you could to be your best for that competition and you let go of expectations and just perform in the moment.

Philadelphia Sixers center Joel Embiid had his best season in 2021. Embiid was considered by some as the league’s Most Valuable Player.

Embiid has steadily improved since he was drafted third overall in 2014.

Embiid has slowly developed trust in his game, and it shows as he has led his team in scoring during the 2021 playoffs.

**EMBIID**: *“I’ve come a long way, but I feel like this year the game just slowed down for me. The way I see the floor is completely different than previous years… I just try to make the best play possible. Even if I got to get a shot up myself, there’s so many ways I can do it.”*

As seen in Embiid’s play, trust is the key to perform at your peak.

You can improve trust in your game. The work you do in the mental skills of trust will produce more consistent results.

### How to Have Trust in Your Skills:

Trust begins with putting in hours or repetition in training. The most repetition, the more you refine the motor program of the movement.

When you compete, you have to remind yourself that your practice is now complete and it’s time to trust what you have. One of my athletes described trust as: *“Use what I have today.”*

Also, resist the tendency to analyze mistakes and try to fix your technique during competition.

---

### Related Articles on Mental Game:

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/embrace-healthy-competition-within-your-team/)[How to Overcome the Fear of Negative Outcomes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-negative-outcomes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/what-separates-elite-athletes-from-the-rest/)[Does Perfectionism Help Your Performance?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/does-perfectionism-help-your-performance/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-on-what-you-can-control-in-sports-2/)[How to Focus Better During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focus-better-during-competition/)

\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![Sport Psychology Cds](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-3.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game of Sports, Mental Game Skills, Mental Performance Articles, Mental Toughness

**Tags:** Trust in Your Skills for Athletes

---

### [How to Skate Intuitively and Be a Performer](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-skate-intuitively-and-be-a-performer-on-the-ice/)

**Published:** November 14, 2019
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/skating-big-image.jpg)

##  Be a Performer, Not a Technician 

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Be a Performer, Not a Technician](#Be_a_Performer_Not_a_Technician)
    - [So the argument is this: Should I perform technically or skate intuitively?](#So_the_argument_is_this_Should_I_perform_technically_or_skate_intuitively)
    - [How to Skate Intuitively:](#How_to_Skate_Intuitively)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!](#Discover_Mental_Strategies_For_Peak_Performance)

Skate **intuitively**… What does that even mean?

Skaters learn to focus throughout their programs on each element. The often get stuck in a practice mindset and forget to “be a performer.” Overthinking leads to mistakes, falls, under-rotation on jumps and other missteps on the ice.

### So the argument is this: Should I perform technically or skate intuitively?

The answer is intuitively. These are two different ways to skate your programs.

In terms of focus, mistakes occur when your focus is misplaced: paying attention to the crowd, worrying about falling, thinking of the earlier scores of your competitions, etc.

Obviously, these aspects of misplaced focus will interfere with being your best on the ice. When you overthink or self-coach in the middle of your routine, you are skating technically.

Imagine skating your program with your coach yelling out technical information throughout your routine… Do you think you would be at your best?

The best focus to maintain throughout your routine is thinking about how to be a performer on the ice. It is immersing yourself in the moment. It is trusting that you can perform your skills you practiced.

It is focusing on doing, not thinking… And that is what is meant by skating intuitively.

**Intuitively** means skating by feel without conscious thought or self-instruction.

It is skating instinctively. It means skating without mental interference in order to just skate the best you can.

As you can see, performing focused and skating intuitively are similar concepts and it is this mindset that leads to peak performance.

That “skate intuitively” mindset helped figure skater Satoko Miyahara take second place at the 2019 ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Cup of China.

Miyahara placed third at World Championships two seasons ago and has upped her mental game to ascend in the world of skating. Miyahara won the silver medal after scoring 142.27 points in the free skate.

After her program, Miyahara talked about the importance of freeing her mind and just going on the ice and performing.

**MIYAHARA**: “*I was able to concentrate as I skated while remaining intuitive. I’ve been anxious in most of my events this season. So for now, I’m happy to finish second. Now I’m looking forward to the Rostelecom Cup. This was a good start for me*.”

The ultimate point is to trust in the skills you have trained and skate **intuitively**. Just use it. The more trust in your skills, training and preparation, the better you will perform when skating your program.

### How to Skate Intuitively:

Skating intuitively requires two things: minimizing self-coaching and immersing yourself in the moment.

First, you have to decide that all your practice is complete and not it’s time to just use the skills you have that day–even if they are not perfect.

Second, use a simple mental choreography to help you focus, but doesn’t allow for over thinking. Use one or two cues for each element.

Finally, define what you need to think about to be a performer on the ice. What would you do differently to just perform? Maybe focus on skating to your music and let the music guide you.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Do You Or Your Team Have The Comeback Mindset?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)
- [**How to Grow Competition Confidence** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [**How Preparation Boosts Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-figure-skater-small-2.jpg)

You (or your athlete) might be the most skilled figure skater and train harder or longer than anyone else, but if you can’t take your practice performance to competition, you simply will not reach your true potential in figure skating.

Learn the top 8 mental game lessons to improve focus, composure, and confidence!

[**The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)

Discover proven mental game secrets to unstoppable confidence in practice and competition.

- **Figure Skaters**: Get the mental edge by learning how to take control of your confidence, mentally prepare for competition, and perform with composure under pressure.
- **Coaches**: Boost your figure skater’s confidence using simple, proven mental strategies.
- **Parents**: Help boost your athlete’s performance. Don’t let their mind hold them back any longer.
- **Mental Coaches**: Learn a proven system for helping your athletes boost mental toughness.

[**The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Intuitive

---

### [How to Move on After Mistakes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-move-on-after-mistakes/)

**Published:** November 14, 2019
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-9.jpg)

## Rebounding from Mistakes Mindset

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Rebounding from Mistakes Mindset](#Rebounding_from_Mistakes_Mindset)
    - [The following are various scenarios in several sports:](#The_following_are_various_scenarios_in_several_sports)
    - [How to Rebound from Mistakes:](#How_to_Rebound_from_Mistakes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Your performance has a lot to do with how you handle **mistakes** during competition.

Mistakes are often trip athletes mentally. Many athletes feel peak performance means perfect performance. This mindset causes a lot of negative emotion, in particular frustration, when the inevitable mistake pops up.

This leads to a split focus–a focus on the past mistakes and trying to perform in the moment! Not the best approach.

Sometimes, athletes feel sorry for themselves after a bad performance. It may be hard to admit, but it happens.

### The following are various scenarios in several sports:

- A gymnast who fell off the balance beam in a major competition and, immediately, had the feeling, “I always mess up.”
- A baseball player who struck out with the bases loaded in the later innings of a game and said to themselves, “I can’t do anything right?”
- A basketball player who missed several free throws in a game and told themselves, “I am the reason our team lost the game?”
- A soccer player who had a bad playoff game and thought, “I always choke under pressure.”

Maybe you can identify with these scenarios at some level. Rebounding from mistakes and mishaps is everything in sports.

Nothing is perfect nor will it ever be. So your response to **mistakes**, losses and mishaps shape your mindset and performance and can linger to the next several competitions.

Let’s use a sport analogy to really drive home this point…

In basketball, it is unreasonable to expect to make EVERY shot. That is the reason REBOUNDING is so important.

You hear coaches, all the time, tell players to follow their shots in order to rebound and put the ball in the hoop.

If a player just hung his head after a missed shot (or felt sorry for himself), he would miss the opportunity to rebound and be successful. The only way to rebound is, first, stop feeling sorry for yourself.

This is true for all sports, even professional athletes…

For example, in the soccer world, Luton Town Football Club of the Championship League lost four consecutive soccer matches. After the last loss, 3-0, to Reading FC, Luton manager Graeme Jones talked about how the team gave up a bit and felt sorry for themselves.

**JONES**: “*We started the game really well and then they scored. Then mentally, we felt sorry for ourselves, ‘what we’re going to do?’ and not enough attacking threat.*”

Jones stated he would like to bring in a Mental Training professional to help his team overcome this obstacle his team currently faces.

**JONES**: “*We’re at a point now where maybe we might have to think about going down that \[mental training\] route, because even if you look at last weeks’ goals, Nottingham Forest didn’t create their two goals, we gave them them. Today, we gave them three goals, so it’s an area that I’ve looked at deeply, it’s an area that I understand, it’s a reality for the mental step in the Championship \[League\].*”

**Rebounding from mistakes** is a learned mental skill–you are not helpless. So with the help of a Mental Game Coach, you can develop mental skills to overcome mistakes and keep your head in the game.

### How to Rebound from Mistakes:

Rebounding is a matter of responding to mistakes in a new way. Start by asking yourself a different question: “Can I really be perfect?” “Do others expect me to be perfect?” The answer is NO.

First, challenge yourself about what’s so awful about the mistake?

Next, remind yourself that you can’t change the past. The only thing you can do is more forward and focus on the next play, skill, pitch, or shot.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**How to Benefit From Mistakes in Competition** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-benefit-from-mistakes-in-competition/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**How to Refocus After Making Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-refocus-after-making-mistakes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**How to Use Mistakes to Improve Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-use-mistakes-to-improve-performance/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mistakes in Sports

---

### [The Importance of Having a Game Plan](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/the-importance-of-having-a-game-plan/)

**Published:** November 21, 2019
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/general-image-big-1-4.jpg)

## How to Implement a Game Plan

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Implement a Game Plan](#How_to_Implement_a_Game_Plan)
    - [Focusing on your plan can be tricky during competitions.](#Focusing_on_your_plan_can_be_tricky_during_competitions)
    - [How to Put a Game Plan into Action](#How_to_Put_a_Game_Plan_into_Action)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Focused Athlete](#The_Focused_Athlete)

A game plan only works if you focus on putting your **game plan** into action during the competition.

Having a game plan is necessary. Your game plan is your blueprint for success or strategy to either perform well or win out over the competition.

For example, in football, your game plan may be the style of defense you are going to play in different game situations…

In gymnastics, your game plan may be the particular routine you are going to perform in each event…

In swimming, your game plan might be designed around your splits for a race…

In tennis, your game plan may be how to attack your opponent’s weaknesses.

Having a game plan is necessary for athletic success but your game plan is worthless unless you put into action. The key to putting your plan into action is focusing on your plan.

### Focusing on your plan can be tricky during competitions.

When playing a tough team or facing a highly ranked opponent, athletes tend to focus on what their opponent is doing.

Taking the focus off of your plan leads to under-performance and gives your opponent a distinct advantage because you are worried about what your competitors are doing.

Ultimately, taking your focus off implementing your **game plan** leads to defeat as professional tennis player Daniil Medvedev well knows.

Medvedev lost his focus when playing future Hall of Famer Rafael Nadal at the 2018 Rogers Cup in Montreal. Nadal dominated Medvedev throughout the match winning 6-3, 6-0.

Despite having a game plan, Medvedev was too focused on “who he was playing” instead of “what he should be doing”.

**MEDVEDEV**: *“You speak with your coach, you understand your plan but you go out there and it doesn’t work because it’s \[Rafeal Nadal\]. \[Nadal\] kills your entire plan. In Montreal, I may not have been prepared mentally. It was terribly windy, which usually bothers Rafa but that day it could not help. The match was not close.”*

Worrying about who you are playing interferes with focusing on your game plan. And paying attention to what your competition is doing hinders focusing on your plan.

Focusing on the importance of the athletic contest interferes with your ability to implement your **game plan**.

In order for YOU to compete at YOUR best, YOU need to keep the focus on YOU!

### How to Put a Game Plan into Action

First, you must formulate a game plan, whether the plan takes advantage of your strengths or exposes the competition’s weakness. No matter, you need a strategy to focus on when the competition starts.

Next you want to mentally rehearse your game plan during your pregame routine.

Once you have developed your strategy, break down your strategy into specific objectives.

Set those objectives prior to the game.

And make sure you have plan B ready to go if plan A is not working.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**Mental Game Plan for Helping Perfectionist Athletes Succeed**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-plan-for-helping-perfectionist-athletes-succeed/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**How to Assess Your Game for More Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-assess-your-game-for-more-confidence/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**On Comebacks, Meltdowns, and The Mental Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/on-comebacks-meltdowns-and-the-mental-game/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Focused Athlete 

![The Focused Athlete Audio and Workbook Program](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/focused-athlete-teams-small-2.jpg)

It’s probably no secret that you have many opportunities **to become distracted** in sports. Athletes are bombarded with both internal and external distractions everyday in practice and competition. **Focused athletes** are able to get the most from their skills because they are more efficient with practice and more concentrated in competition. Athletes who lack focus **let distractions run wild through their mind and don’t know how to adjust or refocus.**

The Focused Athlete was developed for any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve concentration…

“The Focused Athlete” is a complete system to teach you how to focus like a champion and harness the power of a zone focus every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course in practice and games!

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-focused-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-focused-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Game Plan, Mental Preparation

---

### [Confidence to Perform Bigger Jumps in Skating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/confidence-to-perform-bigger-jumps-in-skating/)

**Published:** December 15, 2019
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/skating-comfidence.jpg)

## In Order to Perform You Must Believe

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [In Order to Perform You Must Believe](#In_Order_to_Perform_You_Must_Believe)
    - [That evidence can come in many forms:](#That_evidence_can_come_in_many_forms)
    - [Confidence and Performing Challenging Skills](#Confidence_and_Performing_Challenging_Skills)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!](#Discover_Mental_Strategies_For_Peak_Performance)

What do you think is **possible** and what do you think is impossible?

In the sport of figure skating, your belief about what can be possible often sets the bar.

You simply can’t raise the bar if you believe it’s not possible. However, I’m not suggesting that you should set unattainable goals.

The big reason athletes should set goals is to accomplish something they haven’t accomplished in the past or to achieve a higher standard.

For example, you might want to skate a new program with more difficult jumps but you don’t believe you can successfully **perform** the jump.

And then you may not work hard to develop the strength and technique necessary to perform the jumps. Then when competition comes around, you won’t have confidence in your ability to execute a clean program.

In order to develop confidence to perform higher level jumps or more technical and complex routines, you must find the evidence to support that you can perform the jumps and perform them consistently at a high level.

### That evidence can come in many forms:

\* The fact you work hard in practice.

\* A new strength training regimen.

\* Past successes and experience.

\* Your level of preparation.

\* Your ability to learn new skills quickly in the past.

\* The addition of mental skills training.

\* Other skaters of similar caliber performing those skills.

As mentioned earlier, your belief in what you think is **possible** sets the bar. If you think you can not pull off a skill when competing in an event, the doubts in your mind will hold you back and often lead to under-performance.

Doubts aren’t reserved for novice skaters. Twenty year-old, Russian figure skater Evgenia Medvedeva is working on adding a quadruple jump to her program even though it is an extremely difficult and risky element.

Even though Medvedeva is a two-time world champion and Olympic silver medalist, it doesn’t mean doubts don’t creep into her mind.

**MEDVEDEVA**: “*For me when I feel that’s it difficult to jump triples or triple-triples I’m just looking at Sasha \[Alexandra Trusova\]. I’m just looking at Anna \[Anna Shcherbakova\]. Those small and tiny girls are doing quads and they do it amazingly. And I can’t do triples? Sure, I can! Because I have been \[competing\] for more than 10 years.*”

Medvedeva uses her younger teammates as both motivation and evidence that
she will be able to add this component to her skating repertoire. If her less experienced teammates can successfully **perform** quads, then surely it is possible that Medvedeva can learn the skill.

Believing you have the ability to add bigger jumps to your program is the first step to making it happen.

### Confidence and Performing Challenging Skills

First, list the reasons you have to execute a new skill or jump. What strengths and abilities can you draw from that makes you think you can execute a difficult skill?

Another way to boost your belief is to visualize performing the skill successfully. Prior to each practice visualize performing the skill correctly. Do the same after practice and before bed.

The more you “see” or feel yourself **performing** the skill successfully, the more **possible** it will seem when you practice and the quicker you will learn the skill.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Do You Or Your Team Have The Comeback Mindset?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)
- [**How to Grow Competition Confidence** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [**How Preparation Boosts Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-figure-skater-small-2.jpg)You (or your athlete) might be the most skilled figure skater and train harder or longer than anyone else, but if you can’t take your practice performance to competition, you simply will not reach your true potential in figure skating.

Learn the top 8 mental game lessons to improve focus, composure, and confidence!

**[The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)**

Discover proven mental game secrets to unstoppable confidence in practice and competition.

- **Figure Skaters**: Get the mental edge by learning how to take control of your confidence, mentally prepare for competition, and perform with composure under pressure.
- **Coaches**: Boost your figure skater’s confidence using simple, proven mental strategies.
- **Parents**: Help boost your athlete’s performance. Don’t let their mind hold them back any longer.
- **Mental Coaches**: Learn a proven system for helping your athletes boost mental toughness.

**[The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)**

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Figure Skating, Figure Skating Mental Toughness

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### [Mental Toughness in Harsh Weather](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-in-harsh-weather-conditions/)

**Published:** December 12, 2019
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![Mental Toughness in Harsh Weather](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/harsh-weather.jpg)

## Preparing to Compete in Poor Weather

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Preparing to Compete in Poor Weather](#Preparing_to_Compete_in_Poor_Weather)
    - [How do you use bad weather to your advantage?](#How_do_you_use_bad_weather_to_your_advantage)
    - [The Mental Edge in Tough Weather Conditions:](#The_Mental_Edge_in_Tough_Weather_Conditions)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Do you like competing in the blistering cold? What is your attitude when **competing** in strong winds?

On rainy days, do you find it difficult to focus during competition and mentally concede that you will play poorly?

Too often athletes allow poor conditions to detract from their performance.
For example, some tennis players allow hot temperatures to mentally take them out of matches early in the competition…

Some football players dread playing in the cold… Some golfers feel they cannot putt well on wet greens… Some soccer players play overly cautious in rainy conditions.

Bad **weather** is 100 percent out of your control. You can’t control field conditions, excessive temperature, humidity, precipitation or wind.

Often, the team or competitor that succeeds in tough weather conditions is the athlete that is mentally tough.

Success requires mental toughness, especially when competing in bad weather. The mentally tough mentality isn’t just dealing with the cold, rain and wind, it’s using the bad weather to your advantage.

### How do you use bad weather to your advantage?

Think of it in these terms… Many athletes don’t like competing in extreme conditions. These athletes might even think, “Today is going to stink. The weather is nasty and it is only going to get worse.” Their mentality beats them before the competition or game even starts.

Knowing that most athletes do not look forward to competing in bad weather conditions, if you can maintain a positive mindset in tough conditions, you gain an advantage.

If you tell yourself, “No matter how challenging the weather is, I will give 100 percent effort and focus.” If you repeat to yourself, “I love competing in these conditions.” If you have the mentality that bad **weather** conditions are nothing other than an inconvenience, you give yourself a big competitive advantage.

The key is to set the tone early in a **competition**. From warm-up onward, it’s important to have a mentally tough mindset that nothing will get in the way of you going all out on every play.

Bad weather is an understatement when it came to the New England Patriots – Dallas Cowboys game in the middle of the 2019 season. The temperature was frigid, the ground was hard, the field was wet and slick, the ball was wet, the winds were gusty…all contributing to very challenging playing conditions.

Even though the conditions were the same for both teams, the Patriots’ mentally tough mentality proved to be the difference-maker in New England’s 13-9 victory.

In a post-game interview, New England Patriots free safety Devin McCourty talked about the Patriots’ mindset heading into the game.

**McCOURTY**: “*Any time we play in any type of \[bad\] weather game, we don’t budge, cause when we come in here on a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday \[practice\], \[Head Coach Bill Belichick\] stands up here and he says whatever the weather is, get your stuff and put it on because we’re in it.*“

“So we practice in all this. We’ve had rain days, really cold days. So we practice in all this. So when we get dressed and we get ready to go out there, our mentality doesn’t change. We are out there to play football and try to dominate. And I think everyone has that mentality as a group. So I think it enables us to go out there and execute and try to play at a high level.”

As you can see, mental toughness gives a distinct advantage to the athlete or team that is mentally prepared and mentally tough.

### The Mental Edge in Tough Weather Conditions:

Embrace the challenge of playing in tough conditions. You gain the mental edge over the competition when you can embrace harsh **weather** conditions especially when your competitors are frustrated or upset with the conditions.

If you want to respond with mental toughness, reframe your thinking about the challenge. What can you love about playing in tough conditions?

Also, when training, practice in challenging situations that replicate possible competitive circumstances. This way you know how to handle it better.

When you train in tough conditions, the more prepared you will be to respond well when you face those challenges in **competitive** situations.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**Mental Toughness Tips for Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-toughness-tips-for-athletes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**Mindset for Playing in Tough Conditions**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mindset-for-playing-in-tough-conditions/)
- [**How Preparation Boosts Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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### 

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Focus in Competition, Mental Toughness in Competition

---

### [Think Better-Perform Better](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/think-better-perform-better/)

**Published:** January 2, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/think-better-perform-better.jpg)

## Using Mental Training For a Competitive Edge

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Using Mental Training For a Competitive Edge](#Using_Mental_Training_For_a_Competitive_Edge)
    - [Let’s take these points one at a time to examine](#Lets_take_these_points_one_at_a_time_to_examine)
    - [Take it from Lebron James…](#Take_it_from_Lebron_James%E2%80%A6)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

“I am pretty much doing everything wrong from a mental perspective and just beginning to work on understanding better ways to think.”

The above comment was received from an athlete in one of our recent surveys.

**Mental game** challenges are problems that many athletes ponder. In fact, many athletes who complete our survey have identified going through similar circumstances.

Your mental game or lack of a mental game directly affects your level of performance.

When you avoid the mental game, performance declines, confidence drops, anxiety and frustration increase, focus becomes scattered, performance declines… and the cycle continues.

Others wrote the following:

“Mentally, I’m breaking down in games.”
“I’m not sure what I need to work on mentally.”
“I don’t know how to fix these mental areas of my game.

### Let’s take these points one at a time to examine

1\. Breaking down mentally in games – First, it’s good that you can recognize how your **mental game** affect performance and that you can identify what precedes these breakdowns. Awareness is important to making changes.

Breaking down in a game is a matter of mental toughness and mental toughness is built through mental training.

2\. Not knowing what to work on mentally – Performing at your peak consistently includes many mental skills, such as competing with confidence, managing emotions, staying poised under pressure, focusing and re-focusing during competitions, overcoming adversity, etc.

The key to improving your mental game or building mental toughness is to focus on one mental skill as a time. I try to teach my athletes one lesson at a time when doing mental coaching.

3\. Improving my mental game – As you notice, I steered clear of the word “fix.” Your mental game is something you build upon, similar to your physical conditioning. We don’t cure or fix your mental approach, only educate you on how to improve over time.

For these reasons, you want to connect with a mental game coach who can help evaluate your mental game to improve performance consistency. Also, it is important for you to apply mental strategies in training as well as competitions in order to reap the benefits.

### Take it from Lebron James…

Lebron James is arguably one of the best athletes and basketball players the world has ever seen. James credits his elite level of play to being mentally conditioned as much as being physically conditioned.

“For me, what gets lost in translation over time is that athletes forget that there’s more than just a physical side. At this point in my life, it’s not that I’ve recognized that the mental side is important — I knew that as a kid when I was younger, but now I’m at a point in my life where I’m able to tap into it and take advantage of it. And take advantage of the benefits because there’s only so much you can do with the physical. There’s only so far you can get with the physical side,” James said.

What’s holding you back from embracing **mental game** coaching? You want to look at mental training as another facet of your overall training program.

Once you understand that mental training is for all athletes who want to improve their game and not just “head cases,” you can embrace mental training.

Contact us if you’d like to learn more about personal mental coaching–the best option to fast track your mental toughness.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**Competitive Self-Confidence Really Matters**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/competitive-self-confidence-really-matters/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**How Athletes Can Benefit From Sports Psychology**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-benefit-from-sports-psychology/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**The Roots of Performance Anxiety in Sports**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/performance-anxiety-in-sports/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Mental Toughness in Sports, The Mental Game for Athletes

---

### [Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/top-10-challenges-of-perfectionism/)

**Published:** January 8, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Advantages and Disadvantages of Perfectionism

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Advantages and Disadvantages of Perfectionism](#Advantages_and_Disadvantages_of_Perfectionism)
    - [Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism for Athletes](#Top_10_Challenges_of_Perfectionism_for_Athletes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

Today I’m introducing a new mental training video series on the **Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism**.

Some of the greatest athletes ever are perfectionists including Tom Brady, Tiger Woods, and Serena Williams. So how did they get away with being **perfectionists**?

Is this part of the reason why these athletes are great or is **perfectionism** a thorn in their side? The best athletes are able to parlay the advantages into shaping their greatness while managing the disadvantages that come with being a perfectionist.

Watch the full video to learn more about how to [**overcome some of the disadvantages of perfectionism** ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3u8kLCFNPYQ "overcome some of the disadvantages of perfectionism ")and use this mindset to your advantage.

### Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism for Athletes

**Video on Challenges for Perfectionists**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[Does Perfectionism Help Your Performance?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/does-perfectionism-help-your-performance/)**
- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[Perfectionism Hurts Athletes During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionism-hurts-athletes-during-competition/)**
- **[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[How Perfectionism Can Hurt Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-perfectionism-can-hurt-performance/)**

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Perfectionism, Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [Athletes Who Are Stuck in a Practice Mindset - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/athletes-stuck-in-a-practice/)

**Published:** January 15, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Stop Practicing When You Compete

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Stop Practicing When You Compete](#Stop_Practicing_When_You_Compete)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

Today on the **Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism** Dr. Cohn talks about athletes who are stuck in a practice mindset when they compete.

One of the characteristics of **perfectionists** is that they are very comfortable in their **practice** routines, but as comfortable in competition–for many different reasons.

Watch the full video to learn more about how athletes [**get stuck in a practice mindset**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJ6nrnJYZdA "get stuck in a practice mindset") and how over thinking limits athletes ability in competition.

And check back next week for the next episode of the Top 10 Challenges of **Perfectionists**: High Expectations.

**Video on Being Stuck in Practice Mindset**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Sport Psychology Podcast: Practice and Performance Mindsets**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sport-psychology-podcast-practice-and-performance-mindsets/)
- [**Focused Training and Mindset Equals Success**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/focused-training-and-mindset-equals-success/)
- [**How to Develop a Clutch Mindset**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-develop-a-clutch-mindset/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles, Perfectionism, Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [High Expectations During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/high-expectations-during-competition/)

**Published:** January 22, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Overcome Expectations

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Overcome Expectations](#How_to_Overcome_Expectations)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Today you learn about the second challenge in the **Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism**. Here, you learn about perfectionist athletes who have **high expectations.**

One of the characteristics of perfectionists is that they are very hard on themselves due to their extremely **high expectations** or standards for their performance.

When athletes fail to reach their **high expectations**, it has a negative effect on their confidence because they questions why they can’t perform up to their self-imposed standards.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**Fear of Meeting Other’s Expectations and Pressure**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-meeting-others-expectations-and-pressure/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**When Athletes Fail to Meet Others’ Expectations**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-athletes-fail-to-meet-others-expectations/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**How Athletes Can Manage Expectations**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-manage-expectations/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

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“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** High Expectations in Sports, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [Problems with Perfectionist Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/problems-with-perfectionist-athletes/)

**Published:** January 24, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Advantages and Disadvantages of Perfectionism

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Advantages and Disadvantages of Perfectionism](#Advantages_and_Disadvantages_of_Perfectionism)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Today I’m introducing a new mental training series on the **Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism**.

Some of the greatest athletes ever are **perfectionists** including Tom Brady, Tiger Woods, and Serena Williams. So how did they get away with being perfectionists?

Is this part of the reason why these athletes are great or is **perfectionism** a thorn in their side? The best athletes are able to parlay the advantages into shaping their greatness while managing the disadvantages that come with being a perfectionist.

Listen to the Podcast to learn more about how to overcome some of the disadvantages of **perfectionism** and use this mindset to your advantage. And check back soon for the first episode of the Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionists: Stuck in a Practice Mindset.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**All or None Thinking: One Trap For Perfectionists**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/all-or-none-thinking-one-trap-for-perfectionists/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**Perfectionist Athletes Who Are Highly Judgmental**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-are-highly-judgmental/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, Mental Performance Articles, Perfectionism, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [Perfectionist Athletes and Fragile Confidence](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-and-fragile-confidence/)

**Published:** January 29, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Get Off Confidence Roller Coaster

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Get Off Confidence Roller Coaster](#How_to_Get_Off_Confidence_Roller_Coaster)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

On this video of Sessions with Doc, you learn about athletes who have fragile **confidence.**

One of the characteristics of perfectionists is that they tend to have more confidence in practice than they do in competition.

Fragile confidence means that athletes’ **confidence** goes up-and-down rapidly depending on how they are performing in the moment.

And this ties into athletes’ high expectations…

Learn how to get off the confidence roller coaster and have more stable **confidence**, which should be a goal for all athletes.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**All or None Thinking: One Trap For Perfectionists**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/all-or-none-thinking-one-trap-for-perfectionists/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [Perfectionist Athletes Who Are Easily Frustrated - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-are-easily-frustrated/)

**Published:** February 5, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

In this video of Mental Training Sessions with Doc, you learn why **perfectionist** athletes become easily frustrated.

One of the characteristics of **perfectionists** is that they get upset very quickly when they make mistakes.

These athletes [**lose emotional control quickly and become derailed** ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eM9EF7Ipac "lose emotional control quickly and become derailed ")mentally when they are not performing up to their standards or expectations.

**Video on Being Easily Frustrated**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-teammates-who-make-mistakes/)[**How Young Athletes Become Frustrated**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-young-athletes-become-frustrated/)
- [**How Athletes Can Respond to a Loss**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-respond-to-a-loss/)
- [**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

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“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Frustration in Sports, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [How to Overcome Tension and Anxiety](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-tension-and-anxiety/)

**Published:** February 12, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Anxiety and Tension in Perfectionist Athletes

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Anxiety and Tension in Perfectionist Athletes](#Anxiety_and_Tension_in_Perfectionist_Athletes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Fearless Athlete](#The_Fearless_Athlete)

In this sports psychology video of Sessions with Doc, Dr. Cohn discusses how perfectionist athletes have **anxiety** and **tension** when they compete.

One of the characteristics of perfectionists is that they feel a lot of **anxiety** and worry due to their fear of failure. Often the fear is about disappointing others and not being seen as the star athlete by others.

These athletes tend to focus more on the outcomes rather than the process. And they are both distracted and feel pressure to do well for others.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**How to Manage Anxiety in Competitions**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-manage-anxiety-in-competitions/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**When Athletes Have Anxiety Before Games**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-athletes-have-anxiety-before-games/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**Coping with Pregame Anxiety**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/coping-with-pregame-anxiety/)

**\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify**

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Fearless Athlete 

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**The Fearless Athlete program** is ideal for any athlete that wants to overcome fear of failure and uncover inhibiting perfectionistic traits; or for any coach or parent who wants to teach athletes to perform with trust and freedom in competition.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Anxiety in Sports, Tension

---

### [How to Skate your Best with Large Crowds](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-skate-your-best-with-large-crowds/)

**Published:** February 13, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/skating-big-image.jpg)

## Transform Anxiety into Energy in Front of the Crowd

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Transform Anxiety into Energy in Front of the Crowd](#Transform_Anxiety_into_Energy_in_Front_of_the_Crowd)
    - [You are certainly not the only skater to bring up this challenge in our surveys.](#You_are_certainly_not_the_only_skater_to_bring_up_this_challenge_in_our_surveys)
    - [You have three options when it comes to dealing with crowd noise:](#You_have_three_options_when_it_comes_to_dealing_with_crowd_noise)
    - [Choosing the Right Mindset](#Choosing_the_Right_Mindset)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!](#Discover_Mental_Strategies_For_Peak_Performance)

What effect does the crowd have on you during your skating programs? Do you feel energized or anxious when the crowd claps for you and tries to cheer you on?

Figure skaters look to have clean **skating routines**. Focus on the wrong thing and you can be flailing and falling during your program.

One figure skater recently responded to our mental game survey and asked about performing better in front of spectators:

“I get so overwhelmed and anxious 30 minutes before my program starts. I hear the crowd come alive as the skaters before me look flawless. Just before I step onto the ice, I see images of me falling and the crowd becoming quiet. I am so afraid to fall and embarrass myself that I become a nervous wreck. How can I overcome all these problems and skate better in front of a crowd?”

### You are certainly not the only skater to bring up this challenge in our surveys.

After all, it’s difficult to take the crowd out of the mix. When you step onto the ice to begin your routine, the audience erupts with cheers and applause.

As you ready yourself for the start of your program, the audience becomes eerily silent but not for long. Every jump you make elicits some degree of applause. A lack of applause after a skill means your skill was less than impressive.

Knowing all the different crowd reactions can be overwhelming.

The crowd is not the problem. Your anxiety comes from your fear of “what might happen” or how the crowd will judge you if you mess up your routine or score low.

When you are not focused on yourself in the present, your fear and anxiety often result in a self-fulfilling prophecy leading you to the very thing you are afraid of in the first place.

### You have three options when it comes to dealing with crowd noise:

1\. **Ignore it** – Some skaters have learned how to become hyper-focused during their program. These skaters are so immersed in their routine that they are unaware of crowd reaction. Skaters with this type of focus will often comment that they didn’t even hear the crowd until their program was completely finished.

2\. **Play to the crowd** – Some figure skaters can feed off the crowd. The rhythmic applause from the crowd tends to energize these skaters, helping them to fully “go-for-it” and skate aggressively during their program. These skaters are capable of switching their focus back and forth during their **skating routine**, feeding off the crowd at one moment then completely focusing on the jumps when necessary.

3\. **Become overwhelmed by the noise** – Some skaters are so focused on the reactions of the crowd, they become fearful of mistakes. These skaters feel all eyes being on them and they don’t want to embarrass themselves. Anxiety, fear, stress, pressure and under-performance result when you focus on possible negative outcomes.

### Choosing the Right Mindset

Adopting the proper mindset or perspective will make all the difference in the world.

At the 2020 US National Figure Skating Championships, Mariah Bell skated one of the best performances of her lifetime, with seven triple jumps in her program, to earn the silver medal.

After her **skating routine**, Bell talked about how she fed off the energy of the crowd.

**BELL**: “*I saw how into it the crowd was and I love to share what I do with the audience like that. I feel very awesome to have that experience.*”

Bell saw the crowd as an ally not an adversary. You want to become a performer on the ice instead of worrying about a perfect routine.

When you view the crowd as an asset, you can become a performer and play to the crowd.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-skate-your-best-with-large-crowds/)[**How to Skate Intuitively and Be a Performer**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-skate-intuitively-and-be-a-performer-on-the-ice/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**When Skaters Focus Too Much on Their Scores**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/when-skaters-focus-too-much-on-their-scores/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**Taking New Skills from Practice to Competition for Skaters**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/taking-new-skills-from-practice-to-competition-for-skaters/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Discover Mental Strategies For Peak Performance!

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-figure-skater-small-2.jpg)You (or your athlete) might be the most skilled figure skater and train harder or longer than anyone else, but if you can’t take your practice performance to competition, you simply will not reach your true potential in figure skating.

Learn the top 8 mental game lessons to improve focus, composure, and confidence!

[**The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance**](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)

Discover proven mental game secrets to unstoppable confidence in practice and competition.

- **Figure Skaters**: Get the mental edge by learning how to take control of your confidence, mentally prepare for competition, and perform with composure under pressure.
- **Coaches**: Boost your figure skater’s confidence using simple, proven mental strategies.
- **Parents**: Help boost your athlete’s performance. Don’t let their mind hold them back any longer.
- **Mental Coaches**: Learn a proven system for helping your athletes boost mental toughness.

**[The Confident Figure Skater: Mental Game Strategies For Peak Performance](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-figure-skater/)**

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Figure Skating Mental Toughness, Focus in Skating

---

### [Perfectionist Athletes and All or None Thinking](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-and-all-or-none-thinking/)

**Published:** February 19, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Overcome All or None Thinking

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Overcome All or None Thinking](#How_to_Overcome_All_or_None_Thinking)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

In this Mental Training video, you learn why perfectionist athletes partake in irrational thinking. In this case “all or none thinking” and how to prevent it.

One of the characteristics of perfectionists is that they view their performance as black or white, good or bad, with no shades of gray in between.

This leads to athletes judging their performance harshly when they don’t perform up to their unwritten standards.

These athletes over analyze and judge their performance as either good or bad, while performing, and get stuck on the last shot, skill, or play. Thus, they lose their flow and ability to focus in the moment.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**Perfectionist Athletes Who Are Highly Judgmental**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-are-highly-judgmental/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Perfectionism in Athletes, Perfectionist Athlete

---

### [Pressure to Perform Well for Others - Video](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/pressure-to-perform-well-for-others/)

**Published:** February 27, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Play for Yourself During Games

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Play for Yourself During Games](#How_to_Play_for_Yourself_During_Games)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

Perfectionist athletes often worry too much about what others (coaches, teammates, parents) think about their performance. We call this **social approval** fears in our work.

This is not only a huge distraction for athletes, but also a source of pressure to perform up to others’ expectations. This is the number one reason athletes cripple themselves with **fear of failure**.

Worrying about what others think leads to tentative or cautious performances.

Perfectionists: **[Learn how to overcome worrying about what others think](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJg3lKZadNk "Learn how to overcome worrying about what others think")** in this video.

**Video on Dealing with Pressure to Perform**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Athletes in the Zone to Perform Well Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-athletes-have-to-be-in-the-zone-to-perform-well/)
- [**How to Perform Well When Leading the Match**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-well-when-leading-the-match/)
- [**How to Perform Well on the Court in Big Moments**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-perform-well-on-the-court-in-big-moments/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Sports Psychology Videos

**Tags:** Overcome Fear of Failure, Perfectionism in Sports, Social Approval in Athletes

---

### [Lack of Trust is the Main Problem for Perfectionists in Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/lack-of-trust-is-the-main-problem-for-perfectionists-in-competition/)

**Published:** March 4, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## How to Overcome Lack of Trust in Your Skills

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Overcome Lack of Trust in Your Skills](#How_to_Overcome_Lack_of_Trust_in_Your_Skills)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

One of the biggest challenges for perfectionists is the lack of trust in their skills…

Lack of trust in skills is the reason **perfectionists** tend to under perform in competition–compared to practice.

Perfectionism leads to:

–Over thinking
–Stuck in a practice mindset
–Worry about what others think
–Outcome and aftermath thinking
–Anxiety, tentative play, and indecision

All of these prevent the **perfectionist** from performing with trust in competition–and you can see it on their face or in the performance.

Watch this week’s mental training video on how athletes can have greater trust in their skills when they compete:

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**How Elite Athletes Gain Trust in their Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-elite-athletes-gain-trust-in-their-game/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**Do You Seek Instant Gratification or Trust the Process?**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-seek-instant-gratification-or-trust-the-process/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**Have Trust in Your Skills**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/have-trust-in-your-skills/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Overthinking in Athletics, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [Perfectionist Athletes Who Are Highly Judgmental](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-are-highly-judgmental/)

**Published:** March 11, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

One of the qualities of perfectionist athletes is the fact that they judge their performance extremely harshly. They are very self-critical.

Very high level perfectionists want their performance to look good and feel good in order to get the desired results. When they don’t get these results they feel they aren’t performing up to their expectations.

To perform better in competition, perfectionists need to learn how to stop judging their performance.

Watch this week’s mental training video and learn to overcome this highly judgmental behavior.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**All or None Thinking: One Trap For Perfectionists**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/all-or-none-thinking-one-trap-for-perfectionists/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

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 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Critism in Sports, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [Stop Practicing When You Compete](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/stop-practicing-when-you-compete/)

**Published:** March 27, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Athletes Who Are Stuck in a Practice Mindset

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Athletes Who Are Stuck in a Practice Mindset](#Athletes_Who_Are_Stuck_in_a_Practice_Mindset)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Today on the **Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism** Dr. Cohn talks about athletes who are stuck in a practice mindset when they compete.

One of the characteristics of **perfectionists** is that they are very comfortable in their **practice** routines, but not as comfortable in competition–for many different reasons.

One reason is they are confident in their **practice**, drilling, and they perform well in practice. But at game time, they try too hard to be perfect with their technique.

Listen to the full podcast to learn more about how athletes get stuck in a **practice mindset** and how over thinking limits athletes ability in competition.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How to Improve Your Practice Mindset – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-improve-your-practice-mindset/)
- [**Gymnastics Psychology: Stuck In A Practice Mindset**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/gymnastics-psychology-stuck-in-a-practice-mindset/)
- [**Sport Psychology Podcast: Practice and Performance Mindsets**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sport-psychology-podcast-practice-and-performance-mindsets/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Perfectionism in Sports, Practice Mindset, Practice to Competition

---

### [How Athletes Overcome High Expectations](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-overcome-high-expectations/)

**Published:** April 5, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## High Expectations During Competition

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [High Expectations During Competition](#High_Expectations_During_Competition)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Today you learn about the second challenge in the **Top 10 Challenges of Perfectionism**. Here, you learn about perfectionist athletes who have **high expectations.**

One of the characteristics of perfectionists is that they are very hard on themselves due to their extremely **high expectations** or standards for their performance.

When athletes fail to reach their **high expectations**, it has a negative effect on their confidence because they questions why they can’t perform up to their self-imposed standards.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Helping Athletes Manage High Expectations**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/helping-athletes-manage-high-expectations/)
- [**How Athletes Overcome High Expectations**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-overcome-high-expectations/)
- [**How High Expectations Sabotage Athletes’ Mental Game**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-high-expectations-sabotage-athletes-mental-game/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** High Expectations in Sports, Perfectionism in Athletes

---

### [How to Get Off the Confidence Roller Coaster](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-get-off-the-confidence-roller-coaster/)

**Published:** April 19, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Perfectionist Athletes and Fragile Confidence

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Perfectionist Athletes and Fragile Confidence](#Perfectionist_Athletes_and_Fragile_Confidence)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

One of the characteristics of perfectionists is that they tend to have more confidence in practice than they do in competition.

Fragile confidence means that athletes’ **confidence** goes up-and-down rapidly depending on how they are performing in the moment.

And this ties into athletes’ high expectations…

Learn how to get off the confidence roller coaster and have more stable **confidence**, which should be a goal for all athletes.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**All or None Thinking: One Trap For Perfectionists – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/all-or-none-thinking-one-trap-for-perfectionists/)
- [**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Confidence in Sports Tips, Perfectionism in Sports, Practice to Competition

---

### [Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

**Published:** May 3, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Athletes Who Are Easily Frustrated

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Athletes Who Are Easily Frustrated](#Athletes_Who_Are_Easily_Frustrated)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

In this podcast of Mental Training Sessions with Doc, you learn why perfectionist athletes become **easily frustrated**.

One of the characteristics of **perfectionists** is that they get upset very quickly when they make mistakes.

These athletes lose emotional control quickly and become derailed mentally when they are not performing up to their standards or expectations.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**All or None Thinking: One Trap For Perfectionists – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/all-or-none-thinking-one-trap-for-perfectionists/)
- [**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [**Perfectionist Athletes Who Are Highly Judgmental**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-are-highly-judgmental/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Coping with Frustration in Sports, Emotional Control, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)

**Published:** May 17, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Overcome Tension and Anxiety

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Overcome Tension and Anxiety](#Overcome_Tension_and_Anxiety)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

In this sports psychology podcast of Sessions with Doc, Dr. Cohn discusses how perfectionist athletes have **anxiety** and **tension** when they compete.

One of the characteristics of perfectionists is that they feel a lot of **anxiety** and worry due to their fear of failure. Often the fear is about disappointing others and not being seen as the star athlete by others.

These athletes tend to focus more on the outcomes rather than the process. And they are both distracted and feel pressure to do well for others.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**All or None Thinking: One Trap For Perfectionists – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/all-or-none-thinking-one-trap-for-perfectionists/)
- [**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Anxiety in Sports, Fear of Failure for Athletes, Perfectionism in Athletes, Tension

---

### [How to Overcome All or None Thinking](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-all-or-none-thinking/)

**Published:** May 31, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Perfectionist Athletes With Irrational Thinking

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Perfectionist Athletes With Irrational Thinking](#Perfectionist_Athletes_With_Irrational_Thinking)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Composed Athlete](#The_Composed_Athlete)

In this Mental Training podcast, you learn why perfectionist athletes partake in irrational thinking. In this case “**all or none thinking**” and how to prevent it.

One of the characteristics of perfectionists is that they view their performance as black or white, **good** or **bad**, with no shades of gray in between.

This leads to athletes judging their performance harshly when they don’t perform up to their unwritten standards.

These athletes over analyze and judge their performance as either **good** or **bad**, while performing, and get stuck on the last shot, skill, or play. Thus, they lose their flow and ability to focus in the moment.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**All or None Thinking: One Trap For Perfectionists – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/all-or-none-thinking-one-trap-for-perfectionists/)
- [**Fear of Failure in Perfectionist Athletes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/fear-of-failure-in-perfectionist-athletes/)
- [**Perfectionist Athletes Who Mentally Lose Control**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/perfectionist-athletes-who-mentally-lose-control/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Composed Athlete

![The Composed Athlete Workbook & Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/composed-athlete-small-3.jpg)

“The Composed Athlete” is presented on **80-minute Audio Programs** with a **70-page step-by-step workbook** that guides you through the program each day. It’s a complete system for conditioning your mind to have **maximum composure in competitio**n.

“**The Composed Athlete**” was developed for **any level coach, parent, or junior to professional athlete** who wants to improve performance and gain a competitive edge. It does not matter if you are a fledgling junior athlete; or a seasoned professional, plagued with distractions; or you just wanting to learn how to improve your composure…

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-composed-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-composed-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Overthinking in Athletics, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [How to Play For Yourself During Competition](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-play-for-yourself-during-competition/)

**Published:** June 14, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

Perfectionist athletes often worry too much about what others (coaches, teammates, parents) think about their performance. We call this **social approval** fears in our work.

This is not only a huge distraction for athletes, but also a source of pressure to perform up to others’ expectations. This is the number one reason athletes cripple themselves with **fear of failure**.

Worrying about what others think leads to tentative or cautious performances.

Perfectionists: Learn how to overcome worrying about what others think in this podcast.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
- [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

- [**Social Approval for Athletes in Today’s World**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/social-approval-for-athletes-in-todays-world/)
- [**How to Help Young Athletes Overcome Social Approval – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-help-young-athletes-overcome-social-approval/)
- [**Social Approval And Distractions – Video**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/social-approval-and-distractions-peaksports-video/)

**\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify**

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Fear of Failure in Sports, Perfectionism in Sports, Social Approval in Athletes

---

### [How to Overcome Lack of Trust in Skills](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-overcome-lack-of-trust-in-skills/)

**Published:** June 28, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Lack of Trust is Main Problem for Perfectionists

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Lack of Trust is Main Problem for Perfectionists](#Lack_of_Trust_is_Main_Problem_for_Perfectionists)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes](#Sports_Psychology_Coaching_for_Athletes)
    - [Or Call: 888-742-7225](#Or_Call_888-742-7225)

One of the biggest challenges for perfectionists is the **lack of trust** in their skills…

Lack of trust in skills is the reason **perfectionists** tend to under perform in competition–compared to practice.

Perfectionism leads to:

–Over thinking
–Stuck in a practice mindset
–Worry about what others think
–Outcome and aftermath thinking
–Anxiety, tentative play, and indecision

All of these prevent the **perfectionist** from performing with trust in competition–and you can see it on their face or in the performance.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Lack of Trust in Skills Undermines Confidence**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/sports-confidence-when-you-cant-trust-your-skills-in-competition/)
- [**Lack of Trust is the Main Problem for Perfectionists in Competition**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/lack-of-trust-is-the-main-problem-for-perfectionists-in-competition/)
- [**Trust and Confidence are Complementary**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/trust-and-confidence-are-complementary-to-top-performance/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcas**t](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify
\*Subscribe to [**Peak Performance Sports on Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@peakperformancesports)

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

---

### Sports Psychology Coaching for Athletes

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/brochure-conferencing.png)

For athletes who want faster results with their mental game. Get one-on-one mental game coaching from certified mental performance coaches and mental training experts at Peak Performance Sports!

Join a coaching program from anywhere in the world via Skype, Phone, Zoom, or FaceTime or get face-to-face in Orlando, Florida.

One-on-one mental coaching is the fastest and most effective method to improve your mental game, boost your performance, and make lasting changes. We have a variety of mental coaching programs to choose from. Please call us at 888-742-7225 with your questions.

*Coaching Packages Start at $600 a month including 4 sessions per month, two AMAP mental game assessments, and Mental Edge Workbooks*.

[GET MENTAL COACHING](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)

### Or Call: 888-742-7225

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Anxiety in Sports, Overthinking in Athletics, Perfectionism in Sports

---

### [Do You Need to Stop Judging Your Performance?](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-need-to-stop-judging-your-performance/)

**Published:** July 12, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Overcoming Highly Judgemental Behaviors

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Overcoming Highly Judgemental Behaviors](#Overcoming_Highly_Judgemental_Behaviors)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

One of the qualities of **perfectionist** athletes is the fact that they **judge** their performance extremely harshly. They are very self-critical.

Very high level **perfectionists** want their performance to look good and feel good in order to get the desired results. When they don’t get these results they feel they aren’t performing up to their expectations.

To perform better in competition, **perfectionists** need to learn how to stop **judging** their performance.

Listen to this week’s mental training podcast and learn to overcome this highly **judgmental** behavior.

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Mental Game Tips to Overcome Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-tips-to-overcome-mistakes/)
- [**How to Grow Competition Confidence** ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)
- [**How to Keep Confidence After Mistakes**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-keep-confidence-after-mistakes/)

\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009)** on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Perfectionism in Sports, Self Criticism in Sports

---

### [To Grow Confidence Post Competition Criticism Needs to Stop](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/to-grow-confidence-post-competition-criticism-needs-to-stop/)

**Published:** July 26, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## Athletes Who Are Highly Critical Post-Game

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Athletes Who Are Highly Critical Post-Game](#Athletes_Who_Are_Highly_Critical_Post-Game)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

Do you or your athletes only focus on **mistakes** after competition? Do you criticize your **performance** instead of learn from it? Or do you disqualify the positive?

Perfectionist athletes can be extremely hard on themselves after they compete, which hurts their confidence.

These athletes focus on the **mistakes**, mishaps, bad plays, and what they SHOULD have done better.

To grow confidence, athletes need to stop judging their **performance** harshly and focus on how they can improve…

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**How This Pro Manages Criticism**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-this-pro-manages-criticism/)
- [**How to Turn Negative Criticism into Motivation**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-turn-negative-criticism-into-motivation/)
- [**How Athletes Can Use Constructive Criticism**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-athletes-can-use-constructive-criticism/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to **[The Sports Psychology Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b)** on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports)

**Categories:** Mental Game Audio Podcasts, The Sport Psychology Podcast

**Tags:** Critism in Sports, Perfectionism in Sports, Self-Critical Athletes

---

### [One Strategy That Helps All Athletes While Self-Isolating](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/one-strategy-that-helps-all-athletes-while-self-isolating/)

**Published:** April 2, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

![](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/blog.jpg)

## How to Stay on Track With Goals

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [How to Stay on Track With Goals](#How_to_Stay_on_Track_With_Goals)
    - [Maybe, you can you identify with some of the following scenarios:](#Maybe_you_can_you_identify_with_some_of_the_following_scenarios)
    - [You can turn what you don’t have into what you can do.](#You_can_turn_what_you_dont_have_into_what_you_can_do)
    - [Steps in Goals Setting](#Steps_in_Goals_Setting)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [The Confident Athlete](#The_Confident_Athlete)

The coronavirus has thrown the world into uncharted waters. The widespread impact of COVID-19 has forced everyone to find some way to navigate through unique and unprecedented circumstances.

During these difficult times, **athletes** are also facing distinctive challenges due to the COVID-19 virus.

As an athlete, it would be is easy, and even understandable, to be upset over
things you have lost due to the suspension or cancellation of your athletic season.

### Maybe, you can you identify with some of the following scenarios:

\* “I’ve been competing since I was 8 years old. I wanted to end my career on a high note but now I’m going to miss my entire senior year.”

\* “I have trained so hard this year, and now I will need to go through that training all over again.”

\* “I really felt this was going to be my break out year. I can’t believe I won’t have the opportunity to accomplish my goals this year.”

\* “My teammates were my best friends. I feel so isolated without them.”

\* “I put in a lot of time and effort improving my technical skills. I’m afraid that this much time away from training will cause my mechanics to deteriorate.”

\* “I love being an **athlete**. It’s my entire life. I don’t even know what to do with myself now.”

Other athletes are experiencing similar circumstances due to the pandemic. Being upset is normal, but that doesn’t mean you need to obsess over your circumstances.

There are things you can focus on while sidelined from your sport that will make good use of your time, keep your head in the game and allow you to work on skills that you may have neglected due to your busy schedule.

“So now what can I do since I’m stuck at home?”

While you may be home because of COVID-19, you can still do something.

One strategy to keep you motivated, confident and make best use of your time is to set small **goals** each day.

Small goals will give you direction and focus. Each time you complete a task or make use of your time in a purposeful way, you will feel a sense of accomplishment.

### You can turn what you don’t have into what you can do.

Ask yourself, “What technical skills can I work to improve?” “How can I maintain my level of fitness?” “What are the mental skills I can develop to advance my performance in the future?”

Obsessing over missed opportunities will negatively affect your confidence and motivation. Athletes are driven by goals. As you work towards your goals, your confidence grows.

Every step forward, every improvement in training and technique helps you maintain a high level of confidence.

Every advancement, mentally and physically gives you the confidence to push forward despite any obstacles you may face.

If you pause to think about this timeout, you can use your time to build upon the athlete you are.

### Steps in Goals Setting

- Set long-term or season-long goal (based on current game)
- Assess where you are today – look at stats and performance
- Identify areas or stats to improve (or performance objectives)
- Set smart goals that are measurable and have a time to accomplish
- Decide on goal-achievement/practice strategies; “goal getting”
- Monitor, evaluate, & modify
- For most **athletes**, it’s easy to set goals. The most important part of goal setting is goal getting. Goal getting is the daily strategies you set to improve your physical and mental game.

Create three small goals to work on each day. Take into consideration mental, physical and technical skills.

What do I want to work on in terms of my technical skills? What mental skill do I want to develop? How will I work on my fitness while at home?

If you focus on **goal** getting each day, you will make the most of your opportunities, actively engage your body and strengthen your mental game as well.

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/do-you-or-your-team-have-the-comeback-mindset/)[**Strategies to Set and Achieve Goals**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/strategies-to-set-and-achieve-goals/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-to-grow-competition-confidence/)[**Mental Game Coach During the Pandemic**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/mental-game-coach-during-the-pandemic/)
- [](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-preparation-boosts-confidence/)[**How Triathlete Pedro Gomes Reacts to Adversity During COVID-19**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/how-triathlete-pedro-gomes-reacts-to-adversity-during-covid-19/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### The Confident Athlete 

![The Confident Athlete Audio](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/confident-athlete-audio250-2.jpg)

“The Confident Athlete” consists of 2 audio programs that include 14 days of confidence fueling exercises and a simple to follow workbook that guides you through the 14 days, helps you apply the strategies, and customizes the exercises to your personal needs.

Let me help you put a **stop to the confidence leak**. You can learn to have greater levels of confidence in competition than you do in practice by identifying the specific ways you undermine your own confidence and **how to convert your practice confidence into COMPETITIVE CONFIDENCE**.

“The Confident Athlete” is a ground-breaking system to teach you how to think like a champion and have ultimate self-confidence every time you step on the playing field, court, track, or course. The confident athletes was **developed for any athlete – junior to professional –**that wants to gain confidence. However, coaches and sports parents can learn how to teach others to perform with ultimate confidence. Use my program if you want to bust a slump or just wanting higher or more consistent levels of self-confidence.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/the-confident-athlete-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/the-confident-athlete-series-digital-download/products/the-confident-athlete-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, Master Mental Coach 

 Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, from the NFL and PGA Tour to the Olympics. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. He's the architect of the Mental Edge Framework for athletes, coaches, and parents seeking competitive advantage. He is also the creator of the MGCP certification programs for coaches and life coaches.  [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [    ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) 

 Sports Psychology Mental Coaching Certification 

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**Categories:** Mental Performance Articles

**Tags:** Goal Setting in Sports, The Mental Game for Athletes

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### [Learn to Play Functional Golf](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/learn-to-play-functional-golf/)

**Published:** April 8, 2020
**Author:** Patrick Cohn, Ph.D.

**Content:**

## **Try to be Too Perfect After Rising to a New Level of Competition?**

Article Table of Contents

Toggle- [Try to be Too Perfect After Rising to a New Level of Competition?](#Try_to_be_Too_Perfect_After_Rising_to_a_New_Level_of_Competition)
    - - [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](#Subscribe_to_The_Golf_Psychology_Podcast_via_iTunes)
    - [Related Sports Psychology Articles](#Related_Sports_Psychology_Articles)
    - [Golfer’s Mental Edge](#Golfers_Mental_Edge)

In this week’s golf psychology session, mental game of golf expert and author of The Mental Game of Golf, [Dr. Patrick Cohn](https://www.sportspsychologygolf.com/), responds to a question from Alex who had this to say about his game:

> *Hi, I am a college golfer who was performing well towards the end of my high school career, but then once I got to college, my performance decreased significantly. I believe that the cause of this is from me trying to be too perfect on every shot. I have also lost my confidence while playing too. Any advice on how I can improve in these areas? Thank you!*

**COHN:** Alex, thanks for your question. This is a common challenge I see with athletes rising to the next level of competition.

**COHN:** He was trying to be too perfect….that hurt his performance in his first year as a rookie out on tour.

**COHN:** You do have to be careful of trying to up your game when you go from high school or from the juniors to college and also from college to the professional ranks as well.

**COHN**: Trying to be too perfect means your expectations are elevated as well…

**Listen to the podcast now to learn what Dr. Cohn has to say about playing a functional versus a perfect game.**

#### [Subscribe to The Golf Psychology Podcast via iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id253984147)[ ](https://www.peaksports.com/golf-confidence-report/)

---

### Related Sports Psychology Articles

- [**Play Golf Beyond Your Comfort Zone**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/play-golf-beyond-your-comfort-zone/)
- [**Execute Your Range Swing to the Golf Course**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/execute-your-range-swing-to-the-golf-course/)
- [**Starting Your Golf Round with a Calm Mindset**](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/starting-your-golf-round-with-a-calm-mindset/)

\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-psychology-podcast-by-peaksports-com/id152566009) on iTunes
\*Subscribe to [**The Sports Psychology Podcast**](https://open.spotify.com/show/0ynyaalKxbnNmsoeL8gF5X?si=8224669de9b3435b) on Spotify

**Download a [free sports psychology report](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-toughness-report-athletes/) to improve your mental game!**

**[Learn more about our one-on-one mental game coaching.](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/)**

---

### Golfer’s Mental Edge

![The Mental Edge for Golfers](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/golfers-mental-edge20-medium-1.png)

What’s the *big sign* that **your mental game is the weak link** in your golf game? When you can’t play consistently as well as when you play a practice or casual round–or your **range game** is way better than your game on the course. If you suffer from **lack of focus, low self-confidence, poor composure or other mental game obstacles on the course**, you can’t reach your true potential in golf.

The *Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0* Audio and Workbook program is ideal for any **amateur, collegiate, junior, and tour professional golfer.**

**Golf coaches and instructors** would also be wise to teach “*The Golfer’s Mental Edge 2.0*” principles to their players. This program is perfect for any golfer who wants to improve performance and consistency by managing their mind better on the course.

[GET DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/golfers-mental-edge-cd-program/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/for-specific-sports/products/golfers-mental-edge-digital)

 ![author avatar](https://www.peaksports.com/wp-content/uploads/patrick-cohn-mental-coach-web-sq.jpg) 

 Patrick Cohn, Ph.D. Owner, M