Hello! Today, we’re going to delve into an intriguing topic that has the potential to revolutionize the way athletes approach their sport and life. This blog post is inspired by the insightful work of Cal Botterill and Tom Patrick, who have shed light on the importance of perspective in sports and life.
The Impact of Perspective
Botterill and Patrick’s work emphasizes the profound impact of perspective on our health, happiness, and performance. They argue that the way we view our world can either lift us up or weigh us down. It’s all about how we choose to see things.
Key Questions to Improve Perspective
The authors propose a series of key questions (a few samples below) that can help us improve our perspective. These aren’t just any questions – they’re practical, down-to-earth, and designed to help us focus more effectively in sport and in life. By asking ourselves these questions, we can gain a clearer mind and an unburdened heart:
- Am I enjoying the “process” of my sport/performance domain?
- Am I worrying about just the “outcomes”?
- Does being “the underdog”, “the contender”, “the favorite” make a difference?
- Are you striving “to succeed” or “to avoid” failure?
- Are you worried about how you look or enjoying what you are doing?
Foundational Psychology: A Game Changer
Botterill and Patrick also introduce the concept of “foundational psychology”. This approach can make a significant difference in our health, happiness, and high performance. The authors observe that the people we admire most often have a strong sense of perspective. They’re grateful, poised, and can see the big picture. They have a natural energy, character, and a love for what they’re doing. For them, life is much more of a “privilege” than a “responsibility”.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the perspective we adopt in life and sports can be a game-changer. By asking ourselves the right questions and adopting a “foundational psychology” and mindset, we can optimize our health, happiness, and performance. Remember, it’s not just about winning the game; it’s about enjoying the journey.
http://www.zoneofexcellence.ca/Journal/Issue11/Perspective.pdf