SPORTSMEN BEWARE! SELF DOUBT MAY LET YOU DOWN
Fear, angst, nervousness and self-doubt commonly referred to as ‘mental demons’ torment most people before an important event. Even if there is an iota of doubt in the person’s mind, it can be a thorn in the pathway of success. In sports, most mistakes happen due to self-doubt which simply in other words is the opposition to self-confidence.
Self-doubt is an indecisive state of mind. It is quite acceptable that everyone gets self-doubt before an event but the success of his effort depends on how well he overcomes it. If someone passes a negative comment about us we express denial but we accept the inner voice of self-doubt innocently and submissively.
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Usually players who are bothered by self-doubt lose their focus, intrinsic motivation and confidence resulting in unsatisfactory performance. As a result of all this the player indulges in self-pity and blame. The ensuing condition deteriorates further.
Coaches advice the players to increase effort even though it is a wise suggestion trying harder will always be a conscious effort which in turn leads to mental stress. So the important thing is to know the root cause of self-doubt and take action by increasing self-awareness. By doing so instead of being self-conscious one can take the awareness to the all-powerful subconscious level.
The action plan for increasing self-awareness
- On a daily basis tune into your feelings and emotions .Ask yourself “where am I? What am I doing? How am I feeling?”
- Pay attention to the negative feelings and emotions like defensiveness and insecurity.
- Trace any hurt to its source.
- Follow real self needs.
- Express real feelings openly and honestly. For the sake of confidentiality you may do so before a sport counselor.
HOW TO DEAL WITH SELF DOUBT BEFORE AND DURING A TOURNAMENT:
- When the inner voice of self-doubt is heard it must be replaced with positive self-talk.
- When there is self-doubt over execution of a skill or technique one should imagine carrying out an easy and confident skill successfully .This can fool the conscious mind to clear the self-doubt.
- When there is self-doubt the muscles of the body over tightens unawares resulting in flaws .It is then important to use relaxation techniques. Humming your favorite tune or song can help relieve muscular tightness.
*Many years ago during my playing days I was representing my club in the KSCA division league match. It was a top team and I had my own self-doubts. As I went in to bat I could hear songs from a loud speaker coming from a festive celebration taking place nearby .I started to hum to the tune of my favorite songs .There was a relaxed feeling in the muscles. I went in to full flow before long I had a quick fire 80 odd runs on the board.
*Recently a promising talented 1st div cricketer was referred to me.
After I sat in conversation, he told me “Sir! I have lost my confidence and all the hope of becoming a top cricketer. I am a big failure.’’
I made him to pour out on all his experiences. I found out that he had his self-doubts and used to get excited very quickly. As result he was he was losing his focus. I made him to find his self-awareness and taught him a few relaxation exercises. He is now a consistent batsman.
M.N. Viswanath
Sport counselor /mentor
