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How Do You Stay Positive After a Layoff?
Summary: Coming back to the game after time away brings real anxiety, even for players who love the sport. This article looks at how players can manage that uncertainty, using Lionel Messi’s own approach to returning during a period of disruption as a real-world example.
Soccer players are living in an anxious time due to the shutdown in sports. COVID-19 has forced soccer players to self-isolate, social distance and self-quarantine.
With the future uncertain, soccer players are itching to get back to normal and start playing again. For these players, soccer is fulfilling, and they play the sport for several reasons:
- The challenges of competing
- The exercise component and staying in shape
- The fun of playing the game
- The social aspects of team
- Tournament play
- Traveling to new places and playing new teams.
Soccer is rewarding, fulfilling and fun. So, it would stand to reason that ALL players want to get back on the field as soon as possible and resume all soccer related activities.
Returning to play is not as simple as it appears. Soccer players are also experiencing a lot of doubt and anxiety as social restrictions are slowly being lifted.
You may love soccer and want to get to playing soon, but you may be hesitant about returning to playing or even panicked about resuming any soccer-related activities.
You may be experiencing a lot of anxiety about resuming play:
- Is it too early to resume soccer?
- Will my parents let me play?
- Will I have to wear a mask during games?
- Will spectators be allowed at games?
- What if one of my teammates has the virus… Will I get infected?
- What if I am asymptomatic and spread the virus to my teammates?
Your concern is justified but dealing with your anxiety is especially important in returning to a “new normal.”
When it is safe to play and you return to action, it is important for you to not overthink all potential risks possible while stepping onto the field. Learning how to relax your body and calm your mind will be beneficial as you transition from pandemic isolation to relative normalcy.
Lionel Messi, forward and captain of FC Barcelona, is excited about playing soccer again and cautious about over-focusing on the possible risk of illness.
MESSI: “There’s a risk of infection everywhere, when you leave your house there’s a risk, so I think we shouldn’t think too much about it because if you do you won’t want to go anywhere. But we must understand that it’s essential we comply with the protocols and follow the prevention measures as much as we can. Returning to training is the first step but we shouldn’t get complacent and we must take all precautions necessary. Personally, I’m looking forward to the competition returning. [Even though] we know it’s going to all be very strange, without anyone in the stands.“
You may be nervous and have doubts getting back on the field, but you don’t want your concerns to become full blown fears.
When the time comes to resume soccer activities; be safe, maintain a positive perspective, work hard, enjoy playing and find someone to talk to if you are having any difficulties.
Resuming Soccer Activities with Confidence
First, it’s normal to have some doubts about your skills when you return–similar to athletes who return to play after injury.
Each day, visualize yourself when you were playing well. Can you see yourself playing great soccer when you return to play. Play a highlight reel in your mind of you best plays last Fall.
Remind yourself that everyone is in the same position as you are–your teammates and competitors have not played for a couple months as well. Your mindset will help you return with confidence.
FAQ:
Why do players feel anxious about returning to soccer after a long layoff?
Time away, especially during widespread disruptions like COVID-19, brings real uncertainty: questions about safety, new protocols, and whether things will feel normal again. That uncertainty naturally creates hesitation even in players who love the game.
Is it normal to feel torn between wanting to play and feeling nervous about it?
Yes. Soccer is fulfilling and fun, which is exactly why players want to get back as soon as possible, but that doesn’t cancel out the real doubt and anxiety that comes with resuming activity after a break.
How did Lionel Messi approach returning to play during a period of uncertainty?
He acknowledged the risk exists everywhere, not just on the field, and said overthinking it would keep you from doing anything at all. His approach was to follow the necessary precautions without letting worry take over.
What’s the key to mentally handling a return to soccer after time away?
Learning to relax your body and calm your mind so you’re not overthinking every possible risk once you’re back on the field, rather than trying to eliminate the uncertainty entirely before you feel ready.
Related Sports Psychology Articles
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- Coaches: Help Your Players Deal With Setbacks
- Subscribe to The Sports Psychology Podcast on iTunes
- Subscribe to The Sports Psychology Podcast on Spotify
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