Welcome back to Mental Toughness Monday, the show where we explore the challenges of coaching and the psychology of young athletes. Today, we’re discussing Motivational Deterrents – the roadblocks that can trip us up on our journey to success. Let’s jump in.
We’re all familiar with comparison, perfectionism, and unrealistic expectations, right? These are the big three that can derail our motivation train. Let’s talk about why they’re so tricky.
Imagine your brain as an ancient hunter-gatherer, always on the lookout for danger. This is where our friend, the amygdala, comes in. It’s great for survival but not so much for clear thinking under stress. Like that time my house alarm went off at 2:47 a.m., and I narrowly missed an intruder because I was so disoriented. I wasn’t thinking straight, and it could have led to my own disaster. It’s a classic example of how strong emotions can cloud our judgment.
Ralph Vernacchia said about athletes: ‘The better an athlete gets, the more he or she may fail.’ As you approach your peak, each improvement is smaller, making it harder to notice your wins and easier to dwell on the misses.
Take Patrick Fishburn, a golfer I work with. He climbed from the 90s in ranking to 26th on the Korn Ferry Tour, just by improving 0.2 strokes per round. But that’s not the end of the story. Patrick recently got his PGA tour card in 2023, improving his average strokes per round from 69.75 to 68.96. That’s just 0.79 strokes better, but it made all the difference.
So, what’s the lesson here? When progress is subtle, it’s tempting to fall into the traps of comparison, perfectionism, and unrealistic expectations. These motivational deterrents can cloud our view and dampen our spirits. But, we need tools to combat them.
Here’s what I suggest: First, embrace small victories. They add up over time. Second, understand that perfection is a myth; focus on continuous improvement instead. And finally, set realistic expectations. It’s not about being the best overnight; it’s about being a little better each day.
So, coaches, as you mentor your young athletes, help them navigate these roadblocks. Teach them that it’s okay not to be perfect and that progress, no matter how small, is still progress.
Thanks for tuning in to Mental Toughness Monday. Join us next week as we continue to delve into the minds of athletes and uncover the secrets to building resilient teams. Don’t forget to subscribe, and remember, every Monday is an opportunity to grow stronger together!
– Riley Jensen
We are working on a monthly newsletter! Stay tuned for our first edition!
Past Streams
The UC has 12 AI cameras that require camera techs to operate. These cameras are not the typical sport cameras and provide 4K broadcasting quality in their video. You must meet the minimum qualifications:
Duties:
Compensation: Depends on Experience
The UC has 12 AI cameras that require camera techs to operate. These cameras are not the typical sport cameras and provide 4K broadcasting quality recordings. Minimum requirements for this position are:
Duties:
Compensation: $18/hr
Are you passionate about supporting youth sports and making a positive impact on the community? We are currently seeking a 1099 Contractor who has experience in running youth sports organizations. Seeking someone who is passionate at assisting in moving the UC forward with our existing team.
Note: UCR’s, Presidents, and Board Members of current districts along with current coaches in the UC will not be considered. Past presidents, coaches and board members will be considered.
Qualifications:
– Minimum of 3 years of youth sports experience.
– Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
– Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
Types of working projects and requirements:
1. Social Media Management:
– Develop and maintain social media presence.
– Create engaging content to promote events, achievements, and community involvement.
2. Database Management:
– Handle data entry and maintenance of the organization’s database.
– Ensure accurate and up-to-date information for players, coaches, and volunteers.
3. Spreadsheet Expertise:
– Proficient in Excel for tracking and analyzing various data points.
– Assist in creating and managing game schedules and platforms, assist in tournaments and referee placement.
4. Graphic Design Skills:
– Utilize Adobe Illustrator for designing promotional materials, banners, and graphics.
– Collaborate with the marketing team to enhance visual content.
– Create and collaborate in the uniform design process.
5. Basic Accounting Knowledge:
– Support the finance team with basic accounting tasks.
– Assist in budget tracking, and financial reporting.
Requirements:
– Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
– Proficiency in social media platforms and content creation.
– Experience with database management and data entry.
– Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel for spreadsheet management.
– Familiarity with Adobe Illustrator for graphic design.
– Basic accounting knowledge is a plus.
1. If I provide any false statements or material misrepresentations on my background check, or if my background check responses are materially incomplete or misleading;
2. If I fail or refuse to complete the background screening process;
3. If my name appears on any sex offender registries;
4. If I have any conviction (including a guilty plea or plea in abeyance or a plea of nolo contendere) for any sexual offense or acts of sexual misconduct, irrespective of the date or whether the conviction was for a felony or misdemeanor;
5. If I have any conviction (including a guilty plea or plea in abeyance or a plea of nolo contendere) for any felony classified or deemed to be a “violent” felony, irrespective of the date or whether the conviction was for a felony or misdemeanor;
6. If I have any conviction (including a guilty plea or plea in abeyance or a plea of nolo contendere) for child abuse or domestic violence, (excluding Class B or C child abuse or domestic violence convictions) irrespective of the date or whether the conviction was for a felony or misdemeanor;
7. If I have any conviction (including a guilty plea or plea in abeyance or a plea of nolo contendere) for drug or alcohol related offenses (excluding Class B or C DUI convictions), irrespective of the date or whether the conviction was for a felony or misdemeanor;
8. If I have any other felony conviction within the past seven (7) years;
9. If I have any other misdemeanor conviction (class A) within the past two (2) years;
10. If I have any pending and unresolved felony or misdemeanor (class A) charges;
1. If I provide any false statements or material misrepresentations on my background check, or if my background check responses are materially incomplete or misleading;
2. If I fail or refuse to complete the background screening process;
3. If my name appears on any sex offender registries;
4. If I have any conviction (including a guilty plea or plea in abeyance or a plea of nolo contendere) for any sexual offense or acts of sexual misconduct, irrespective of the date or whether the conviction was for a felony or misdemeanor;
5. If I have any conviction (including a guilty plea or plea in abeyance or a plea of nolo contendere) for any felony classified or deemed to be a “violent” felony, irrespective of the date or whether the conviction was for a felony or misdemeanor;
6. If I have any conviction (including a guilty plea or plea in abeyance or a plea of nolo contendere) for child abuse or domestic violence, (excluding Class B or C child abuse or domestic violence convictions) irrespective of the date or whether the conviction was for a felony or misdemeanor;
7. If I have any conviction (including a guilty plea or plea in abeyance or a plea of nolo contendere) for drug or alcohol related offenses (excluding Class B or C DUI convictions), irrespective of the date or whether the conviction was for a felony or misdemeanor;
8. If I have any other felony conviction within the past seven (7) years;
9. If I have any other misdemeanor conviction (class A) within the past two (2) years;
10. If I have any pending and unresolved felony or misdemeanor (class A) charges;