The other day I was talking with a college athlete who was feeling tense, anxious, and nervous before competitions.
I ask her to write down the 3 most frequently used questions and comments that come from her parents when they speak with her:
1. "How's lacrosse?"
2. "How was practice yesterday?"
3. "You ready? You've got this."
Great parents, not a great top 3.
"What are you doing for fun today?"
"What are you doing/what could you do to take care of your mental health today?"
"What are you looking forward to?"
"Tell me about your plans this weekend. Anything fun coming up?
"I'm so proud of the woman you are becoming."
"Where do you feel like you've made progress?"
"What's on your mind?"
"How can we best support you right now?"
"I've been noticing that you've been tense and worried lately. Is there anything we could do better so you don't feel that pressure"
What we talk about most often and with the most passion reveals our values. (Youth Truth Book)
No wonder so many athletes feel pressure to perform, right?
You and your spouse are the top 2 people in your child's life whom they want to make proud. If they believe their personal stats and performance matters most to you, they will experience fear/worry/doubt/anxiety anytime they have the slightest belief that they could fall short.
Easy fix.
Today, be intentional with your questions and comments :-)
Dedicated to your athlete's success in sports and life,
Coach Andrew J Simpson
P.S. Here are two FREE solutions- 1 for parents, 1 for athletes.
1. Parents: Get The Youth Truth Ebook and Audiobook FREE here today.
2. Athletes: Get Coached By Me FREE for 30 Days
