Mental skills training is beneficial in all aspects of life. We are all performers in one way or another, no matter our profession, be it an athlete, doctor, teacher, or parent. Through the ups and downs, ins and outs, our lives don’t always follow the path we intend. We are unable to change the problems of our past, nor control the uncertainties of our future, yet we constantly allow both the past and future thoughts to hijack our minds, thus dictating our actions. We tend to allow outside elements, such as critics, naysayers, hecklers, and doubters to contribute to those preexisting mental woes we established for ourselves. The path we hoped for, and the goals we set out to achieve are seemingly unattainable because we allow these uncontrollable circumstances to affect our performance. We are human, we are not perfect. We make mistakes. We get frustrated, stressed and perhaps, at times, we can completely fall apart and that is ok! What’s not ok is that we tend to let it linger and take over. 

 

 

Mental skills training helps us become more mindful and understanding of ourselves. The initial objective is to clear the mind of those uncontrollables. Doing this allows for us to free our minds, to adapt, overcome and ultimately disregard the outside elements we once felt to be the cause of our despair, when in reality, it is us holding ourselves back with whatever excuses we have been telling ourselves. As they say, you are your own worst critic. The goal here is to become your biggest fan. Once we can accept that, we can focus on what we can control; our thoughts, feelings, emotions, and actions. By applying techniques such as meditation, positive self-talk, and imagery, into your daily life, your level of performance will progress to new heights.

 

So, let’s go! It’s never too late to give mental skills training a shot. You may be surprised at what the mind can do for you.