Overview
Research shows that there is one key determining factor which sets the elite performer apart – they have a different mindset when it comes to performance. This mindset is in the form of a set of beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that are dramatically different to the norm. Working with a KPA sport psychologist can ensure you too can have this different mindset.
Why would I want to work with a sport psychologist?
- Do you get frustrated that some days you perform well or even exceptionally but on others perform below par or badly?
- Do you often hope you will perform well rather than know you will?
- Would you like be more confident, more focused, more motivated, perform when it counts or be more resilient?
- Do you want a longer career at the top?
- Do you want to fulfil your potential?
In elite level sport the mind makes the difference between success and failure. If that’s the case how much time are you committing to the mental side of your game? Compared to the time you spend on your fitness, nutrition, skills and tactical work, how much time do you spend being a better athlete mentally?
Recently published research with some of the world best performers showed them to have LEARNED the following Elite Performance Mindset:
The Elite Performance Mindset
- Ability to adapt to and cope with any change/distraction/threat under pressure
- Not being afraid to make mistakes and come back from them
- Remaining focused on processes NOT outcomes
- Total commitment to their performance goals
- Remaining in control
- Totally focused on the job in hand despite distractions
- Being acutely aware of any inappropriate thoughts and feelings and changing them to perform optimally
- Belief to overcome obstacles
- Recognising the importance of knowing when to switch on and off from performing
- Recognising and rationalising failure, and picking out the learning points to take forward
- Physically tough – are able to push themselves to the limit
What would I get by working with a KPA sport psychologist?
Benefits typically include:
- A clearer understanding of what elite performers do and how to apply this to your needs
- A clearer understanding of how to achieve higher, more consistent and sustainable levels performance for the players
- A better understanding of “what makes you tick” and how to get more out of you
- Increased confidence
- Increased focus
- Improved motivation
- Improved preparation
- More resilient to set backs
- Train more purposefully
- Greater enjoyment (and thus performance)
- Clear goals and how to achieve them
What does a sport psychologist do?
Working with a sport psychologist is a bit like a working with fitness coach for your mind. We’d spend some time discussing where you see your strengths and weaknesses as a player, what you want to improve and then we’d put together a plan to help you improve. We’d then work together to ensure that plans working on a weekly basis. Basically we’d look at the things you’re doing well and make sure you can do them even better and any areas you were concerned weren’t going well we’d improve those.