There is no better place to teach positive thinking than in sports. Positive thinking is a necessary skill if kids want to be successful. It is the pathway to our young athlete's motivation, longevity, and success. But how is positive thinking developed? That’s what today’s blog is all about!
Note: Just because one is positive does not mean success will come right away, positivity is a long-term plan not just short-term gain.
Here are my top 3 ways to develop positive thinking in all my athletes:
Positive thinking cannot be achieved by overthinking things. Anxiety comes as a result of overthinking, if one can pinpoint and narrow down a few things to think about at a time and then find solutions then one can have a game plan and be positive about the next steps. If it doesn't work out as planned, then going to square one is only a few steps behind because the athlete's focus was narrow and pinpointed on only a few things.
Positive thinking comes from preparation. Failing to plan is planning to fail. This saying is easily applied to say 12 years old and up, but what about 4-11 years old, how do they plan? By being ready! Do they have their shoes, is it noted on their schedule, have they gotten their homework done before practice, did they do what their coach asked from the last practice, have they done a few pushups or taken 100 shots before the next practice? All these things help kids prepare at a young age.
Parents, share your story with your kids. Kids need to hear stories of ups and downs and highs and lows to let them know that they are not the only ones to have experienced success and setbacks. This will boost their positive mindset and outlook on their success.
Stay Positive.
Coach Ben
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