Build Confidence with an Athletic Success Journal
We all know feeling confident as an individual is about to enter an athletic competition is critical for him or her to perform at their best. Yet, how do we build this confidence when so much of their practice time is spent pointing out and correcting errors?
One way to do this is through the use of a Success Journal.
This is a journal in which athletes record all of their most notable accomplishments. The key to making it as successful as possible is two-fold:
Record the athletic success in as much detail as possible so it is easy to remember and relive. Examples include:
Shot 9 of 10 from the field in the March 6, 2016 game vs. East High. During the timeout in the third quarter, Coach Bolton told team I was on fire and to get me the ball.
Executed contemporary solo flawlessly at Energy Dance Competition on April 10, 2017. Received Platinum Adjudication, 2nd overall and my entire team cheered for me at the post-competition team meeting.
20-foot right-to-left downhill putt on Pacific Dunes hole #6 for a birdie.
Completed 50 Free in 23.5 seconds at Rydell High School swim meet on January 20, 2018. Coach Finstock high-fived me when I walked back over to the bench.
Just prior to an athletic competition (perhaps in the car on the way there) read through each of the accomplishments that are recorded in the journal. After reading each one, close your eyes and relive that moment in as much detail as possible. Experience what you heard, saw, touched and the emotions you felt in that moment.
If you found this tip valuable and are looking for further options to enhance your mental performance, or that of the athletes you work with, please consider one of our Mind of a Champion programs. We can bring these programs directly to your teams - or individual athletes can attend one of our public programs in Naperville, IL.