You can improve your sporting performance with just 5–10 minutes of practice every day. A statement I often hear from players is:
“If only I had more confidence and was mentally tougher I would be so much better”
The implication is that confidence, belief, and mental toughness are elusive gifts that only the lucky few possess. Absolute rubbish! Some people might be more adept at learning how to succeed at a young age, but it is not beyond anyone to learn how to be mentally tough.
A tennis player would never enter a tournament without hitting a ball for 3 weeks, but many athletes enter tournaments without doing any mental practice, yet wonder why their minds are weak. Your mind gets sharp and strong with practice, just as your body gets fit and strong through training.
Preparation to achieve mental toughness: Thinking like a top performer
Mental preparation falls into two categories:
- long term preparation
- preparing for a match
The steps below will not take hours and are not difficult to do. They require the desire to follow through consistently, applying yourself for 5–10 minutes most days.
