The Confidence Equation: Preparation + Self-Belief

Mental Performance Tips & Tools by Coach Natalie

Confidence isn’t just a feeling—it’s an equation you can train. Too often, athletes wait for confidence to “kick in” during competition. But what if you could build it the same way you build speed, strength, or skill?

Breaking Down the Equation

Confidence = Preparation + Self-Belief. If you only prepare but don’t believe, you’ll second-guess yourself. If you believe but don’t prepare, nerves and inconsistency creep in. The magic happens when both come together.

Step 1: Preparation

Confidence starts with the work you’ve already put in. Every rep in practice, every drill, every recovery routine—these are deposits in your confidence bank. When competition day comes, you’re not “hoping” you’re ready. You know you’re ready, because you can pull from those deposits.

Step 2: Self-Belief

Preparation alone isn’t enough if your inner voice doesn’t back you up. Athletes who constantly tell themselves, “I’m not good enough” or “Don’t fail” sabotage their own training. Self-belief is choosing to align your thoughts with your preparation: “I’ve done the work. I trust myself.”

Training Confidence Like a Skill

• Before practice: Write down one focus goal for the day. A focus goal is basically setting the intention for practice and what you would like to give your focus to.

• During practice: When you make a mistake, replace “I can’t” with “What’s next? What's my new correction to focus on?"

• After practice: Reflect on what you did well to reinforce your preparation.

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These mental reps strengthen self-belief the same way physical reps strengthen your body.

Your Challenge This Month

Think about your equation. Which side is weaker—preparation or self-belief? Choose one small strategy to strengthen it, and notice how your confidence shifts.

Want to learn how to reinforce this technique to your daily routine? Schedule an initial consultation here to become an expert in building confidence.