Perform Smarter, Not Harder Just give a 110% effort! Has anyone ever told you that prior to a performance? The more valuable advice may very well be... "Perform smarter, not harder." Trying harder, shooting for perfection, or attempting to meet crazy-high expectations rarely produce better results. In fact, these false motivators … [Read more...] about How “Trying to do Too Much” Can Hurt Performance
high expectations
Sports Psychology Podcast: Perform with Confidence, Not Expectation
In this week's sports psychology podcast, Dr. Cohn helps a ice hockey player improve his self-confidence. Sports psychology expert, Dr. Patrick Cohn helps athletes let go of high expectations and perform with confidence. Dr. Cohn answers the following mental game question: "I play travel AAA ice hockey. I have been the leading goal scorer on my … [Read more...] about Sports Psychology Podcast: Perform with Confidence, Not Expectation
Sport Psychology Podcast: Perform Without Expectations
In this week's sports psychology podcast, Dr. Cohn helps a basketball player who puts pressure on himself to perform. Sports psychology expert, Dr. Patrick Cohn helps athletes perform without expectations and tension in competition. Dr. Cohn answers the following mental game question: "I play pro basketball in Europe and after two games have not … [Read more...] about Sport Psychology Podcast: Perform Without Expectations
When Your Young Athlete’s Confidence is Low Because Friends Excel
Young Athletes And Confidence Struggles What do you do when your young athlete’s confidence sinks every time a talented friend or teammate excels in sports? This is a common problem for young athletes. Kids are social beings—and they tend to compare themselves to their friends. But in sports, this is a bad thing to do. Making comparisons to … [Read more...] about When Your Young Athlete’s Confidence is Low Because Friends Excel
Why Athletes “Check Out” After Making Mistakes
Do You Check Out After Mistakes? OK, so I've received a ton of questions from athletes, coaches and parents about how to help athletes who "check out" after making mistakes in competition. Do you (or your players) have trouble keeping your head in the game after mistakes? Do mistakes compound because you’re so frustrated you can’t think … [Read more...] about Why Athletes “Check Out” After Making Mistakes