The new NFL and College Football seasons are approaching fast.
A new season brings new pressures, new opportunities and a way to move past last season’s disappointments.
With teams moving into their pre-season camps and starting their physical preparation for the approaching grueling games that come thick and fast, it’s important that Football players also focus on their mental preparation.
Here are three things that players can do to mentally prepare for the new season:
1. Goal Setting
Setting goals for the is a powerful tool for athletes of all sports to use as a source of motivation throughout the ups and downs of season.
While most Football players will have the goal of winning the championship, they need to ensure that their own goals focus on the process of getting there rather than the outcome itself.
That’s why it is important to employ a technique like S.M.A.R.T goal setting.
The goal must be SPECIFIC. I.e. you know exactly what the goal is and the steps you need to take to achieve it.
Your goal should be MEASURABLE. What data, results, or achievements show that your goal is tracking towards success.
Is your goal ACHIEVABLE? If it’s not, then it shouldn’t be your goal.
Your goal should be RELEVANT to you, your broader life and what truly matters to you.
Finally, your goal should be TIME sensitive, have a clear deadline by which it should be achieved.
2. Figure Out Your Routines
Having a refined and consistent pre-game routine can assist you in entering a game at your optimal level of mental arousal.
Think through and refine how you want to mentally prepare before a game.
Do you need time to think about your goals or mentally rehearse/visualize your movements and actions for specific plays?
Do you get anxious, and think negative thoughts, so need a breathing exercise or a self-talk statement to bring your heart rate down and boost your confidence.
Deciding this now will give you more control on game day!
3. Identify Sources of Confidence
Look back on last season and find moments, no matter how big or small, that you can call back on that made you feel strong, powerful, excited, confident or like you belonged at the level you’re competing at.
These moments are great sources of confidence and validation that you can achieve great things.
When times get tough during the season, calling on small moments of success and visualizing your successes can help you face adversity or regain your composure with confidence and clarity.
