This is Natalie, owner of Psych Me Up Consulting, your mental performance consultant providing tips to CONTROL your performance anxiety!
Performance anxiety can be a common experience for athletes at any level of competition. It can manifest as nervousness, self-doubt, or fear of failure, and can significantly impact an athlete's performance. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help manage performance anxiety and allow athletes to perform at their best. By developing a personalized plan and utilizing techniques that provide relaxation, such as visualization, positive self-talk, and relaxation exercises, athletes can learn to control their anxiety and achieve their goals on the field or court.
Tip #1 - Breath, Breath, and did I say BREATH!!
Common sense, right? We breath without even thinking, it keeps us alive! But often times, athletes breathing gets out of control when they are in high pressure situations. Their breathing may get fast and short, which actually creates a state of anxiety. So in order to control anxiety, there must be controlled breathing paired. Breathing can help regulate heart rate and blood pressure naturally, leading to a more relaxed and focused state of mind. So, whether you're a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, mastering the art of breathing can give you the competitive edge you need to excel in your chosen sport.
Tip #2 - Visualize your GOALS!
Visualization is a powerful tool that can take an athlete's performance to the next level. By visualizing themselves achieving their desired outcome, athletes can improve their focus, confidence, and overall performance. Whether it's picturing themselves crossing the finish line first or executing the perfect shot, visualization can help athletes get closer to their goals. By incorporating visualization into their training routine, athletes can not only improve their physical abilities but also their mental toughness. So, why not start visualizing your success today and watch as your performance outcomes improve?
""Every time I feel tired while I am exercising and training, I close my eyes to see that picture, to see that list with my name. This usually motivates me to work again." - Michael Jordan
Tip #3 - Make a Plan...and Stick to It!
Sticking to a solid plan can significantly reduce anxiety in athletes. When you have a clear roadmap to follow, it's easier to focus on the task at hand instead of getting sidetracked by worries or doubts. When I was a gymnast, I had clear goals and a vision of what I wanted to execute at practice and competitions. It kept me focused and calm and motivated to crush my goals. Therefore, a well-executed plan can also help athletes stay motivated and on track towards their goals. So if you're looking to keep anxiety at bay and maximize your athletic performance, make sure to create a plan that you can stick to and trust.
Tip #4 - Replace that Negative Talk of yours
Do you start competitive situations saying, "What if I totally bomb this performance?" or "There is no way I can compete against HER...she is so much better than me"? Statements like these WILL determine the outcome of your performance. If you're nervous and anxious before your perform, you are going to perform anxious and nervous. If you are calm and confident before, you are going to perform calm and confidently. Our MIND controls our BODY. Replacing personal negative talk is crucial for athletes to reach their full potential. Self-talk is a powerful tool that can either help or hinder athletic performance. When athletes engage in negative self-talk, they create a self-fulfilling prophecy that can lead to decreased confidence and motivation. By replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations and constructive criticism, athletes can reframe their mindset and improve their performance. This shift in thinking can lead to increased confidence, motivation, and resilience, allowing athletes to achieve their goals and reach new levels of success.
Tip #5 - Execute it!
Lastly, knowing just a little bit about how to manage performance anxiety can go a long way to unlocking your ultimate potential. But you can see much more progress by actually executing the steps above. Remember to prioritize your tips, break them down into manageable steps, and focus on one tip at a time. Use tools and resources such as a mental performance consultant to assist you in staying organized and on track. Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask for help when needed! By following these guidelines, you will be well on your way to managing your performance anxiety with greater ease and success!
Next Steps to Becoming Unstoppable?
Reach out! Performance Anxiety is something that ALL people struggle with at some moment in time. It is very normal, but often times we need more help than a few tips. Book Here, to schedule an initial consultation and tackle your performance anxiety today!
You've Got This!
Let's Get Mentally Fit!
Natalie Gurnett, M.S.
Psych Me Up Consulting
www.psychmeupconsulting.com
psychmeupconsulting@gmail.com
Comments