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Wednesday, 11 October 2006 10:58 |
What is the role of the mind (psychology) in tennis?
The mind is the locomotive that drives the train. The mind is the home of the beliefs that promote the thoughts that become the actions that we take. The mind is what develops and directs the strategy of the game. The mind provides a picture and instructs the body in the mechanics of the strokes and movement necessary to play the game. The mind is the observer that provides feedback and correction. The mind makes decisions about the kinds of self-talk that a player will use when playing. The mind controls the a player's physiology. The mind takes charge of emotional control. There is no way to separate the role of the mind from the game of tennis. Without it, there is no game.
How can your mental game be improved?
1. Set clear goals.
2. Create action steps that will take you closer to these goals. Learn to visualize. Try to "see" what you want in your mind.
3. Use positive self-talk.
4. Practice breathing techniques.
5. Always put forth 100% effort.
6. Be process oriented.
7. Stay detached.
8. No future tripping. No past tripping. Stay in the present.
9. Be non-reactive to opinions of others.
10. Tolerate your inability to be perfect.
11. Do what it takes to have fun. Smile!
12. Define winning in a way that includes more than just the final score. What are common problems associated with a player's mental game?
1. Confusion about strategy
2. Trying to do too many things at once.
3. Being easily distracted
4. Too much concern about winning and losing
5. Perfectionism
6. Complacency
7. Having no plan or clear goal
8. Too much spontaneity and creativity
9. Lack of humility
10. Inappropriate reaction to errors
11. Negative self talk |
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