You know you're capable. You've proven it in practice countless times. So why does fear hijack your performance when it matters most? Fear is a powerful emotion that can control many aspects of our lives, including our athletic performance. Understanding the psychological underpinnings of fear and learning how to manage it can be a game-changer for athletes striving for excellence. In this blog post, we'll explore four ways fears may be controlling your performance and how to turn them into steppingstones for success.
- Fear of Failure: When One Mistake Ruins Everything
The fear of failure is prevalent among athletes who push themselves to reach new heights. Sound familiar? One mistake and your entire game falls apart. It can manifest as performance anxiety, leading to a decrease in focus and an increase in mistakes. You dominate in practice but disappear when the pressure's on. To combat this, athletes should set process-oriented goals instead of outcome-oriented ones. Focus on the aspects of performance you can control, such as your effort, attitude, and preparation. - Fear of Success: Why You Show Up for Playoffs but Ghost Regular Games
Ironically, some athletes fear success because of the pressure and expectations that come with it. This fear can lead to self-sabotage or inconsistent performance—showing up for big occasions while drifting through regular competition. It's important to embrace success as part of your journey and to view each accomplishment as a building block for future goals, regardless of the game's perceived importance.
- Fear of Judgment: When Your Child Can't Sleep Before Games
Athletes often worry about what others—coaches, parents, peers—think of their performance. This fear can be paralyzing, leading to pre-game anxiety that affects sleep and overall well-being. Your child might be lying awake, worried about disappointing everyone watching. Remember that your self-worth is not tied to your athletic performance. Seek feedback but maintain a strong sense of self irrespective of others' opinions.
- Fear of Re-Injury: Physically Healed, Mentally Hesitant
Even after physical recovery is complete, many athletes struggle with the mental aspect of returning to competition. You're cleared to play, but something still feels off. The fear of getting hurt again can be more limiting than the original injury itself. This fear often manifests as hesitation in crucial moments, affecting your natural playing style and overall confidence.
Turning Fears into Power
To transform these fears into positive forces, athletes can practice mindfulness and visualization techniques. Mindfulness can help you stay present and focused during those crucial moments when fear typically takes over. Visualization can prepare your mind for success by rehearsing positive outcomes and building confidence in your ability to perform under pressure.
By acknowledging and addressing your fears, you can free yourself from their control and unlock your true potential. These fears don't have to dictate your performance or steal your joy in competition. Remember, courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. With the right mental training, you can turn anxiety into energy and pressure into power.
Travers, M. (2024, May 11). A psychologist explains 3 ways you are being controlled by your fears. Forbes. Retrieved from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2024/05/11/a-psychologist-explains-3-ways-you-are-being-controlled-by-your-fears/