Do You Feel Tighter in Games Than Practice?
If so, I have an important tip for you today…
I wanted to follow up with you by highlighting a question I received from a reader:
Question: “I don’t understand why I can take players on and score goals in practice, but when I go into the game. I freeze and the tension won’t let me play my game.”
Answer: If you feel tight in games compared to practice, that’s a sign your mind is getting in the way and not allowing you to let go…
You must find the real culprit to the tension. You probably think tension is the real problem.
But having worked with many high-level soccer players, I know better…
The “tension” you feel does not happen all on its own. Something else is at the root of the problem, which most players and coaches don’t see on the surface.
How Your Fear of Failure Creates That Tension
Here’s what I mean: Most likely, when you play in games, the outcome is more important to you (for many reasons I won’t go into here). For most players, they want to play well or win so badly and they can’t handle failure.
This mindset causes you to worry about failing or not playing to your capabilities, a root cause of fear of failure.
Now take note, here is the real culprit to the tension – the fear of making bad passes or losing the ball causes you to lose trust in your skills.
The lack of trust causes the tension, but this started with the fear of messing up or wanting to play well so badly.
OK, the short version… “I want this badly” > “Don’t screw up” > avoidance mindset > lack of trust > tension > “I feel tight and controlled.”
So, you have to get to the root cause of the tension instead of band aiding “tension” with relaxation training. Most people don’t get this and look for quick fixes to rid themselves of tension.
How To Overcome Your Fear of Failure
What’s the solution?
The only way you are going to play freely and trust your skills is to rid yourself of the fear or pressure-packed expectations you have about the game….
You’ll learn how to do this in my new program, “Soccer Confidence: Mental Toughness Strategies for a Competitive Edge.”
I want to help you end the use of “band aids” to address the problem. A complete overhaul and tune up of your mental game is on the way…
My program will change the way you think – literally – about your game!
Please read more about it. This might be the best thing you have ever done for your game:
Soccer Mental Training – Get Mentally Tough For Games!
Learn Mental Game Secrets to Soccer Confidence!
Does your confidence seem to disappear when you go from practice to games and don’t know why? Do you get nervous and anxious in big games or when you are under a ton of pressure? Do you get so frustrated when you make a bad pass which causes your confidence to sink?
Check out Soccer Confidence: Mental Toughness Strategies For a Competitive Edge
Learn proven strategies to improve focus, composure and confidence so you can perform at your peak in games!
Players: Get the mental edge by learning how to take control of your confidence, mentally prepare for games and perform with composure under pressure.
Trainers: Learn how to give your students the mental game advantage.
Coaches: Boost your team’s confidence using simple proven mental strategies.
Parents: Help boost your soccer player’s confidence. Don’t let their mind hold them back any longer.
Soccer Confidence: Mental Toughness Strategies For a Competitive Edge
What are soccer confidence customers saying?
“I have enjoyed and benefited from your emails over the past year or two. I have been a player, parent, and coach in soccer over the past 40 years. Thanks for the assistance with the mental game resources.”
~Kyle Congleton, Soccer Coach and Parent
Do You Make Any of These ‘Costly’ Mental Game Mistakes?
Download our FREE soccer psychology report and discover if you make any of these ‘costly’ mental game mistakes that can block your success.
You’ll discover:
- How your soccer mind can be your best or worst asset on the field.
- How frustration and dwelling are your worst enemy.
- If you are using your soccer mindset effectively before games.
- Learn the important mental game of soccer skills you need to master to boost your confidence and performance.
7 ‘Costly’ Mental Game Mistakes That Block Soccer Players’ Success
What are soccer psychology subscribers saying?
“We try and spend 20 to 30 minutes a day working on the mental aspects of the game. My daughter is really enjoying it and feels it has helped and I know it has worked for her mother and I. I think you need to open a branch up here in Detroit, Michigan because there are a lot of parents and kids up here that need this information. Keep up the good work!”
~Scott Burgess, Soccer Parent
Mental Game Coaching for Soccer Players
Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with personal coaching.
You can work with Dr. Patrick Cohn himself in Orlando, Florida or via Skype, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us toll free at 888-742-7225 or contact us for more information about the different coaching programs we offer!
We look forward to helping you improve your mental toughness!
What are our mental coaching students saying?
“Dr. Cohn, Michelle had the best weekend of soccer she has ever played. She was relaxed, did not get frustrated with herself or teammates, and never once ‘shut down.’ Numerous parents noticed a difference in her composure and attitude. Thanks again for EVERYTHING…Michelle is in a very good place right now!”
~Diana, Michelle’s Mother
i get stressed out because i get that feeling of people saying that am rubbish in the game (behind my back),so i try my best but the fear of screwing and giving them the go to talk is what ruins my game
U know just don’t mind them u r playing this game trust urself don’t mind those jerks
Cuz I’m a goalkeeper who faced the same problem fear
I overcame it by enjoying the game trusting myself
I started saving all of the shots it gave me more confidence