Sources of Confidence
When it comes to confidence, we often want to maximize it or need it when it matters most - When we are under pressure and the outcome of our performance is emphasized.
Needing to make a shot with 2 minutes left on the clock, wanting to execute a swing with two batters on base in the last inning, etc. Have you had a similar experience?
There are factors of pressure involved, potentially your teammates counting on you, time is constrained, there is a strong overall desire to win, etc. At that moment, we may feel that with more pressure, comes less confidence. Even though we can physically execute the task and we have x the training, we may start to question our abilities.
Oftentimes, we can find ourselves seeking out confidence in these high-pressure situations but not allowing ourselves to mentally prepare for these moments adequately ahead of time. Let’s take a moment to reflect and prepare to utilize sources of confidence to better set ourselves up for success.
When facing your performance demands and thinking about sources of confidence, which stand out and resonate the most with you?
Mastery of Skills
Demonstration of Ability
Previous Experience
Professional Feedback
Social Support
Self-Talk
Mental and Physical Preparation
Innate Skills
The first question to reflect on: What are your primary sources of confidence?
When identifying your primary sources of confidence - Visualize one of your best performances. Take note of the process before, during, and after that performance. Notice the internal and external factors at play. What were you thinking? What were you feeling? What were you focused on?
Recognizing your top sources of confidence allows you to intentionally use where you tend to draw confidence from in future situations.
The following question to reflect on: How do you maintain and maximize them?
After identifying your top three sources of confidence, think about the level of control you have for each (i.e., the opponent ahead, the game environment, your team dynamics, etc.). For example, if you utilize professional feedback, how can you maximize this source? You can ask for further feedback, insight on strategies for the game, and express gratitude for technical feedback. However, you must assess your level of control for this source. If you find yourself only able to influence this source, take note of this and balance with a source more so in your control.
All in all, confidence is an important component of performance. If you are able to think ahead and work on maintaining and maximizing these sources in your training, you can work to transfer this into the game environment for consistency.
