The Prevailing Learning Mindset: you see the way a professional athlete swings his/her bat or takes his/her shot and say to yourself, “Wow I am going to try it that way. That could really help improve my results!”
The Dangerous, Right vs. Wrong Mindset: you see the way a professional athlete swings his/her bat or takes his/her shot and say to yourself, “Well, I thought I was doing well. If that’s the way they shoot, my way is wrong.”
The Right vs. Wrong Mindset is the wrong mindset.
Have you been doing this, athlete? Not only comparing your technique, form, and abilities with others, but have you been coming to disempowering conclusions that in some way, you must be worse solely because they do it differently.
The Prevailing Learning Mindset says this: everyday, in every way, I am learning and growing. Throughout my sports journey I will recognize others who have a better way of doing things and when appropriate, will make adjustments to the way I do things. I will choose to learn from them and myself, rather than beating myself up or deeming myself inferior.
Now, if that’s too pollyanna for you, go ahead and define “Prevailing Learning Mindset” in whatever way works for you. But if you, as a coach or parent, have unknowingly encouraged the “right vs. wrong” mindset (maybe you’ve literally told your athlete or players their way is “wrong” or “bad”) I would encourage you to back track and start encouraging a prevailing learning mindset for the best long-term results..
(I recognize this is a loaded topic and that there is a need to correct form and technique but for now, the mental piece of this equation should be helpful for the athletes who chronically compare and beat themselves up when it’s not “perfect like the pros”.
Take this, apply it, and we will talk again soon.
Dedicated to your athlete’s success on and off the field,
Coach Andrew Simpson
P.S. Want to learn to think like the pros? Grab the Black Friday Athlete Mindset Improvement Bundle here for 20% off + $100 off normal price.
