In the competitive world of sports, young athletes often face immense pressure to perform, which can shake their confidence. Dr. Tamar Chansky provides valuable insights into rethinking the confidence conversation with kids. Here’s how these insights can empower elite youth and amateur athletes to build genuine self-assurance.
Understanding Confidence Beyond the Surface
Confidence isn’t just about believing in oneself; it’s about navigating doubts and uncertainties with a growth mindset. It’s normal for athletes to experience doubt, but it doesn’t mean they lack confidence. Instead, it’s an opportunity for growth and learning.
Specific Strategies Over General Encouragements
Telling an athlete to “be more confident” is too vague and can be counterproductive. Athletes benefit more from specific strategies that address particular areas of doubt. For example, if a young soccer player is hesitant about taking penalty kicks, the focus should be on practicing that skill rather than on a broad directive to be confident.
Growth Mindset: The Key to Real Confidence
A growth mindset encourages athletes to view challenges as opportunities to improve. It shifts the focus from a fear of failure to a journey of continuous development. Coaches and parents can foster this mindset by encouraging athletes to ask for help and focus on what they need to improve, rather than on the outcome.
Conclusion
Confidence in sports is a dynamic and multifaceted concept. By adopting a growth mindset and focusing on specific strategies to overcome doubts, young athletes can develop the resilience and self-belief necessary to excel in their sports endeavors.
Source: Chansky, T. (2024). Rethinking the Confidence Conversation With Kids. Psychology Today.