FOCUS ON THE PROCESS

Simple, but not easy…

A major aim of mental game coaching is adjusting the mindset from a results-focus to a process focus. A simple concept in theory, this work can take weeks or months for some athletes. There is no shame whatsoever in admitting that this is a difficult shift to make. My role as a mental coach is to help athletes make this shift with no pressure, shame, or sense of obligation. Instead, we focus on why this shift is so impactful and how to adjust ones thinking from a constant focus on outcomes to a complete commitment to the process of improvement. 

For many athletes, there are additional pressures to keep focusing on results, such as pressure from coaches, parents, peers, and media. Take one look at a top athlete’s Instagram feed and you will see persistent references to accomplishments and accolades. These are well-earned and well-deserved but give the illusion that if one just focuses on winning, you will win. Nothing could be further from the truth. In an interview with any top athlete, you will hear them emphasize their focus on daily training, practicing how they play, focusing on the present moment, and taking care of their bodies. Yes, there is an underlying assumption that they are aiming for the top but they are not thinking about winning when they are in the “game”. They think about the immediate task and block out unhelpful distractions. 

These mindset skills take practice. Every athlete I have worked with practices their mental skills on and off the field. They use their mental game skills during training so that they are easily translated into competition. Top Line athlete and Podcast guest #2, Jess Alberico, explains eloquently how she uses her skills in daily practice and hones them for race day: https://open.spotify.com/episode/29ZnzJS0T13V5djceNiv1x?si=f442fedee99a414e.

Keep working the process and have FUN while doing it. The rest will take care of itself!