Becoming a better athlete: Jeremy's guide to necessary mental skills #sportvariations #soccer #gridiron #mentalskills

Mental preparation and abilities are just as paramount to athletic success as physical capabilities. Mental strength and fortitude, in conjunction with mental preparation, is now seen as a significant aspect of elite sports, with most big sporting franchises acquiring 'sports psychologists' to assist players in mentally preparing and being ready for upcoming games.

However, not only do successful and elite athletes require great mental attributes. Any outstanding athlete, whether they be at an elite level or not, are committed to being the best that they can be within the scope of their limitations – other life commitments, finances, time, and their natural ability. They set high, realistic goals for themselves and train and play hard. They are successful because they are pursuing their goals and enjoying their sport. Their sport participation enriches their lives and they believe that what they get back is worth what they put into their sport.

A list of essential mental skills include:

1. Choose and maintain a positive attitude.
2. Maintain a high level of self-motivation.
3. Set high, realistic goals.
4. Deal effectively with people.
5. Use positive self-talk.
6. Use positive mental imagery.
7. Manage anxiety effectively.
8. Manage their emotions effectively.
9. Maintain concentration.

These skills are not only instinctive, but can be learned and acquired, and can be improved through instruction and practice. 

There are 3 phases for the aforementioned 9 skills. Although each of the nine skills is important, its primary importance will occur during one of three phases: long-term development, immediate preparation for performance, and during performance itself:

Long-Term Development

The first 4 mental skills listed above: attitude; motivation; goals and commitment; and people skills, constitute a broad base for attaining long-term goals, learning, and sustaining daily practice. They are needed on a day-by-day basis for long periods of time, often months and years. These are referred to as basic skills, and require the most emphasis in initial training, as they are the foundations for long-term development.

Immediate Preparation for Performance

Mental skills number 5 and 6 from the aforementioned list: self-talk and mental imagery, are used immediately before performance to prepare for performance. They maybe used just before competition begins, or immediately before a specific performance action, such as a golf shot or a free throw in basketball. 

During Performance 

Mental skills 7, 8 and 9 from the list: managing anxiety; managing emotions; and concentration, are all utilised during actual physical performance. These attributes are the most difficult to master, as they require not only practice and skill, but mental fortitude. 

The 3 phases of skill acquisition is deciphered in the following diagram: 

- Jeremy