“We didn’t lose the game; we just ran out of time”—- Vince Lombardi

If you want to succeed in football, you have to have a game plan.

Without a proper plan you will lack focus and direction. Having a plan not only allows you to take control of your game’s direction; it also provides you a benchmark for determining whether you are actually succeeding.

It is important to have a plan of attack that includes your football mental game. Having a plan of attack limits distraction and allows you to become more focused and productive.

Goal achievement requires commitment. To maximize the likelihood of success, you need to feel a sense of urgency and have an “I must do this” type of attitude. When you don’t have this, you risk putting off what you need to do to make the goal a reality. This in turn leaves you feeling disappointed and frustrated with yourself, both of which are de-motivating, destructive mindset.

The key is sticking to your plan day after day, month after month. This is not as easy as it sounds but it will make all the difference if you are consistent. Sticking to your plan is a daily battle that is won via proper goal setting. It is always better to have long term and short term goals.

Think about those times you’ve been “in the zone”, “played out of your head”. It’s amazing. It’s as though you can do no wrong. You’ve probably played your best games when “in the zone “. Miracles are few and far between, but there are things you can do to help move toward a higher level of football confidence and mental performance.

Clearly, you play your best when performing at your peak. However, many football players don’t realize there are specific mental preparations you can use that help you move toward peak performance and having a plan of attack is one of them.

Virtually every athlete has had the experience of being in the zone; for most athletes the experience occurs spontaneously and is generally short lived.

Being well prepared every time you take the field will set the stage for a consistent high level of performance.

Being prepared develops your football mental toughness and increases the likelihood of success. This involves everything you do the day of the game from the time you wake up until you take the field.

Developing your football mental toughness will certainly involve a time commitment. But this critical skill set certainly will add a new, challenging and fun component to your practice schedule.

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