Sports:Psychology - Maintaining Confidence After Mistakes

After listening to a podcast (Tennis Psychology) on maintaining confidence during tennis matches, I thought how such a topic might relate to grappling, and came away with this.

According to the host of the podcast, unrealistic expectations and negative self-talk can negatively affect your mental state.  In essence, imposing expectations of always performing flawlessly regardless of the simplicity or complexity of the technique or situation may lead to the development of a self-doubt.  A loud inner-voice may be created, which criticizes every mistake.  The danger in developing this habit (the negative inner-voice) is the erosion of self-confidence and the build up of self-doubt.  However, it appears expectations and the negative inner-voice can be controlled.

First, get rid of the expectation that flawless performance regardless of the simplicity or complexity of the technique or situation is achievable. 

Second, if expectations are too deeply rooted, then work against developing a negative inner-voice.  After performance drops below what is expected, work on making positive statements about performance (e.g. I'm a good player) and the ability to overcome adversity (e.g. I'm going to keep going) to maintain confidence during performance.  The host suggests that it is what you say to yourself after a poor performance that affects self-confidence. 

Also, avoid over-thinking by simplifying how you play the game.   Instead of over-thinking which technique will be best, how best to apply the technique, or when to apply the technique, feel the moment and let your training take over.  At some point, you will have to trust in your training, and trust that it will guide you.  The focus should be on objectives rather than results. 


Appreciate the moment without asking where it's going.  Imagine getting in a car and taking a trip without a destination in mind - just sit and enjoy the ride.  Do not view things as mistakes, but as parts of what will make up the whole journey. What is seen on the journey shapes the traveler, and choosing to see every thing makes for a better traveler and journey.