THEORY: Positive self-talk relates to the ability to overcome negative thinking. Those who practice positive self-talk are more likely not to suffer from negative thoughts. Positive self-talk allows performers to be more relaxed and focused. Negative thoughts will increase anxiety levels. In reverse, positive self-talk creates happiness and excitement that lead to successful performance.
PRACTICE: It is important that you are in control when you practice positive self-talk. Therefore, focus on areas that are in your direct control and try to ignore external factors. Use positive self-talk during both training and during competition. Praise yourself for each successful tackle, header, pass or shot.
APPLICATION: Positive self-talk is about blocking negative thoughts. For example, develop awareness of how well you perform and praise yourself accordingly. Assess the impact of positive benefits to yourself both for mind and body.
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About Gobinder Gill
Gobinder is a lecturer in Sport Psychology and Research Methods at Birmingham Metropolitan College in the West Midlands.